The Psalmist in Psalm 73 illustrates how the wicked in power take advantage of the people and do not have any remorse about what they do before God. Everybody suffers because of their corruption. They continue to become wealthier and more powerful, yet the common people are taken advantage of. Psalm 73:8-12 says, "They mock and say evil things; they proudly threaten violence. They speak as if they rule in heaven and lay claim to the earth. Therefore they have more than enough food to eat and even suck up the water of the sea. They say, 'How does God know what we do? Is the Most High aware of what goes on?' Take a good look. This is what the wicked are like, those who always have it so easy and get richer and richer." The Psalmist even complains of his condition under the wicked people, and he said, "I concluded, 'Surely in vain I have kept my motives pure and maintained a pure lifestyle. I suffer all day long, and am punished every morning (Psalm 73:13-14).'" The Psalmist is saying that he continues to suffer in doing what is good while the wicked are becoming more successful in the evil things that they do.
However, when the Psalmist prayed to God, he realized that God would judge all the wicked in the end. They may look powerful and successful at present, but God would bring severe judgment on them for all their wicked deeds. Psalm 73:17-20 says, "Then I went into your sanctuary, O God, and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked. Truly, you put them on a slippery path and send them sliding over the cliff to destruction. In an instant they are destroyed, completely swept away by terrors. When you arise, O Lord, you will laugh at their silly ideas as a person laughs at dreams in the morning." We have to remember that there is an end to all wickedness in this world when our Lord Jesus returns to this earth. Revelation 22:12, Jesus said, "Look, I am coming soon, bringing my reward with me to repay all people according to their deeds." Jesus will give reward to those who have been faithful in walking His ways, but He will judge those who are wicked.
We may suffer because of the corruption and wickedness of this world, but let us not forget that all the wickedness of this world will end someday. Our Lord Jesus will end all wickedness in this world. He will give rewards to those who walk in His way and will judge those who are wicked.
Questions for application: (Think through these questions carefully, meditate on them while answering them, and let the Spirit of God speak to you.) What is the ultimate destination of the wicked? How should I continue to live my life while I wait for the return of my Lord Jesus? Who can help me against the corruption of the wicked?
Write down all the worries you face today and lift them up to God.
Prayer:
Dear Father in Heaven, I may not experience the suffering that others may be experiencing due to corruption, but I know that many are suffering because of corrupt governments. I pray for those who believe in you who are suffering because of corruption that you will protect, guide, and give them wisdom on how to deal with their situations. I pray that you will continue to give me the courage and strength to live according to your ways in this corrupt world. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
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