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Is there any consolation in being righteous when the wicked flourish without limit? Many years ago, Asaph, the Director of Davidic Choir had struggled with that question. Psalm 73 recorded his bitter struggle and restful answer too. The wicked seemed to have no struggles, physically healthy, untouched by burdens common to man, proud, arrogant and even mocking God (verses 4-12). Despite the carefree life, they continued to prosper. This unfairness weighed heavily on Asaph that his faith in God was shaken and his steps became slippery (verses 1-3). The more he dwelt on the prosperity of the wicked, the more Asaph became infuriated. Thus, he protested in his heart that it’s worthless to be living a righteous life (verses 13-14).
At one point Asaph wanted to speak out his mind, but immediately realised the adverse effect it might have on the listeners, especially the weak ones (verses 15-16). Then what brought peace and rest to the turbulent Asaph? It was when he entered the ‘sanctuary of God,’ implying primarily the presence of God and not necessarily a structure or location. A new outlook developed when he began to see things from God’s perspective. It is here that he understood the final destiny of the wicked. We see a reversal of their condition, that is, not Asaph but the wicked were actually on slippery ground! Seemingly, the wicked were prospering, but God made their position precarious and they will vanish like a dream (verses 17-20).
If ever Asaph laughed at himself, it would he here – “When my heart was grieved and my spirit embittered, I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before you” (verses 21 - 22). He sprang out from his stupidity, pictured what he had been and gave a description of himself as a “brute beast” before God. For a time he was senseless and ignorant of what a righteous person meant to God. This psalm did not end with the realisation of his folly only, but also a realisation of God’s comforting protection and guidance even during his “senseless” times (verses 23-24). God is with us even when we become stupid! This realisation gave way to reaffirmation of his faith in God, praise and gratitude to God (verses 25-26).
Allow me to speculate on Asaph’s outlook in life afterward. I would think he became more responsible and active in his ministry. I would think, that he enjoyed his work all the more. I would think he saw new things, to which he was blind earlier. I would think his grieving heart was turned to rejoicing. I would think that his embittered spirit was replaced by a joyful spirit. All because Asaph began to think, see, and work with God. Yet part of Asaph couldn’t stop thinking about the wicked still. However, it was no longer that of envy for their prosperity, but the dreaded thought of their settled fate (verse 27). Asaph, then, concluded his psalm with the following statements of decision, dependence on God, and commitment to proclaim God’s work - But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds (verse 28).
This Psalm depicts the present Nagaland very well. Some people conclude that it is impossible to live an honest life in our thoroughly corrupt society. Yes, it is impossible if one is not willing to carry his cross; but it is possible if one is willing to carry it. To be an Asaph in our society, a government servant may have to forego promotion chances, a minister or MLA may never be re-elected, a contractor may not get his tender approved, a church worker may be ridiculed and so on. At this point, the Tempter’s voice will say, “It’s not worth it!” But the Righteous’ voice will say, “That’s the cost to pay if you want to be my disciple.” C. H. Spurgeon puts it, “There are no crown-wearers in heaven who were not cross-bearers here below.” Yes, no cross, no crown!
It’s comforting to know that there are ‘silent’ Asaphs whom I know, and I believe there are many more of them whom I do not know personally. Our land is not without hope because of the Asaphs who made that personal choice – “But as for me, it is good to be near God.” The world will keep on offering ceaseless new products, lure us with its material comfort, and bear down on us to conform to its standard. But we don’t have to give in, nor do we have to envy the temporal affluence of the wicked. Contentment comes from knowing God and living in His presence. Asaph’s struggle suggests no other alternatives. May God grant us the same perspective and courage as He did to Asaph long ago, and may his tribe increase!
V. Atsi Dolie
ABCC Mission Compound, Kohima