In Psalm 73:1–15, Stephen Davey explains how Asaph—the gifted Levite musician appointed by David—nearly walked away from ministry because he couldn’t reconcile God’s goodness with the prosperity of the wicked. Asaph begins with the truth that “God is good to Israel,” yet immediately admits that his faith almost collapsed as he envied unbelievers who seemed healthier, wealthier, freer from trouble, and even admired for their arrogance. Davey highlights seven “forbidden questions” Asaph was secretly asking: Why do unbelievers have more money, less pressure, better health, fewer troubles, more honor, more applause for blasphemy, and seemingly greater success than God’s people? Asaph even wondered whether his own devotion to God had been pointless since he faced constant conviction and hardship while unbelievers appeared carefree. Though he kept these thoughts hidden to avoid harming younger believers, he now records them in Scripture—proof that God invites honesty rather than pretended piety. Davey notes that Asaph’s raw confusion reflects the common struggles of every believer who measures life by temporary circumstances, and that this psalm sets the stage for the turning point Asaph will experience when he steps back into God’s sanctuary.
Asking Seven Forbidden Questions
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