03/12/2014 BANANAS AND ENVY
Psalms 73: 1-3 Surely GOD is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. [Living Bible Translation]
Summary
The book of Psalms is a collection of hymns and songs praising GOD. Some of the songs were used as part of the Jerusalem Temple worship service during the time of David and Solomon. Some of the prayers and songs are instructional, for meditation or pleas to GOD for help. The psalms are similar to the hymns, spirituals, gospel songs, and Christmas carols sung in churches today.
Many of the psalms are attributed to David; however, Psalm 73 is attributed to Asaph. (See, heading: "A Psalm of Asaph," which prefaces Psalm 73. According to many bible commentaries, Asaph was David's choir director and a musician. When David brought the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem, he appointed certain of the Levites to minister or worship the Lord in song, praise and prayer. Asaph according to 1 Chronicles 16:4-8 was the chief or director of a choral group of priests.
In Psalm 73 Asaph reflects on the GOODNESS of GOD. Asaph then reflects on his own inner conflict in his envying the wicked—or as he put it "nearly losing his foothold and almost slipping." And, finally (like Job) Asaph affirms his confidence in GOD's WISDOM and DIVINE justice in the end.