I HAVE PUT MY TRUST IN THE LORD GOD

Text: Psalm 73
2 October 2011

(I) THOSE WHO HAVE FAITH

“Truly God is good to Israel,
To such as are pure in heart.”
Psalm 73:1

1. The pure in heart

2. They see God’s goodness to Israel

(II) THOSE WHO DO NOT HAVE A STRONG FAITH

“But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled,
My feet had nearly slipped.”
Psalm 73:2

1. Feet almost stumbled

2. Feet nearly slipped

(III) HONEST CONFESSION OF FEELINGS

1. Envy at the prosperity of the wicked (Psalm 73:3)

2. Misery (Psalm 73:13-14)

a) It seemed as if all effort put in to be spiritual was in vain ( Psalm 73:13 )

b) It seemed too painful to even try and understand life ( Psalm 73:15-16 )

3. Observations about the wicked rich

a) They appear to be strong right up to the time of death ( Psalm 73:4 )

b) They do not seem to have troubles like others ( Psalm 73:5 )

c) They indulge proudly in wickedness

i) Violence ( Psalm 73:6 )

ii) Opulence ( Psalm 73:7 )

iiii) Oppression ( Psalm 73:8 )

iv) They speak against heaven ( Psalm 73:9 )

v) They have no respect for God ( Psalm 73:11 )

vi) They keep getting richer ( Psalm 73:12 )

(IV) REGAINING TRUST IN GOD

“But it is good for me to draw near to God;
I have put my trust in the Lord God,
That I may declare all Your works.”
Psalm 73:28

1. Enlightenment concerning the end of the wicked rich

a) They walk on slippery paths ( Psalm 73:18a )

b) They end up in destruction ( Psalm 78:18b-19 )

c) They are despised by God ( Psalm78:20 )

2. Enlightenment concerning the spiritual treasures we have in God

a) In the presence of God always ( Psalm 73:23a )

b) Upheld by God ( Psalm 73:23b )

c) Guidance from God on earth ( Psalm 73:24a )

d) Promise of a home in glory ( Psalm 73:24b )

e) Strength from God throughout life ( Psalm 73:26 )

3. Enlightenment to be desired

a) Through drawing near to God ( Psalm 73:28a )

b) Through putting trust in God ( Psalm 73:28b )