Is Our Living In Vain?

Psalm 73:1-3 – A psalm of Asaph.
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. (NIV)

After I first gave my life to Christ, as I grew and matured in my relationship with Christ, I began to notice that I was seeing myself in a place of want, while others all around me seemed to prosper. God gave me today's passage during a time when I was hurting, though totally surrendered to His will, and it seemed as though my enemies were living the fabulous life. In this passage, we read about a man named Asaph who admits to God that he has begun to envy the wicked and their prosperity. He even admits that he almost fell off the path; he almost stopped walking with God. But glory be to God, for He gently corrected Asaph.

God has always been a gentle corrector in my life, as well. Sometimes the lessons He has to teach me are not easy, but He has always been faithful, always holding out His right hand.

I am so glad that I serve a God with whom I can be totally open and honest. He already knows my deepest thoughts, and all He wants is for me to come before Him with my heart exposed and laid bare. I rejoice that I can approach my Lord and tell Him how I am feeling. I can keep it real with God. As Asaph later said, "I entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood." (Psalm 73:11 NIV) God allows us to approach Him with our troubles, and to be assured that once we enter His presence, we will understand.

Our living is not in vain. When we begin to look at the world and all its riches, let's remember God is holding our hand. Let us shout His praises all day long, because our reward is far greater than anything here on this earth. Praise His marvellous name!

Prayer: Lord, we come humbly saying "Thank You." Thank You for being such a wonderful God, a loving God, a gentle God. Thank You for allowing us to come to You honestly and always guiding us when we seek Your face. Thank You for walking with us today. We ask that You not allow us to slip, nor to envy, nor to fall. When we do, Lord, remind us that we need only to seek Your face for answers. We love You, Lord; we adore You; we praise You today. Amen.