How can believers counter the doubt expressed in Psalm 73:11? Setting the Scene • Psalm 73 is written by Asaph, a godly man who is honest about wrestling with envy when the wicked flourish. • Verse 11 captures the sneer he hears: “The wicked say, ‘How can God know? Does the Most High have knowledge?’” (Psalm 73:11). • The question is more than curiosity—it flatly doubts God’s omniscience, justice, and involvement. Recognizing the Doubt • Doubt sounds logical when evil seems to thrive unchecked. • Left unchallenged, it breeds cynicism, envy, and spiritual drift (vv. 2–3, 13–14). • Asaph’s turning point comes “until I entered the sanctuary of God; then I discerned their end” (v. 17). Being near God reframes everything. Truths That Silence the Question • God sees absolutely everything. – “O LORD, You have searched me and known me… even before a word is on my tongue, You know all about it” (Psalm 139:1-4). – “Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight” (Hebrews 4:13). – He counts sparrows and “the very hairs of your head” (Matthew 10:29-31). • God will judge righteously. – “God ‘will repay each one according to his deeds’” (Romans 2:5-6). – “Do not be deceived: God is not to be mocked” (Galatians 6:7). • God has an eternal timetable. – Their present ease is “slippery ground” leading to sudden ruin (Psalm 73:18-20). – “Our light and momentary affliction is producing… eternal glory” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Practical Ways to Stand Firm • Enter the sanctuary often. – Corporate worship, Word-saturated music, and Christ-centered preaching reset perspective (Psalm 73:17; Hebrews 10:24-25). • Record and rehearse God’s past faithfulness. – “I will remember the works of the LORD” (Psalm 77:11-12). – “Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed” (Lamentations 3:21-23). • Confess envy and unbelief quickly. – Asaph admits, “I was senseless and ignorant” (Psalm 73:21-22). – “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive” (1 John 1:9). • Fix eyes on eternity. – “Set your minds on things above” (Colossians 3:1-4). • Treasure God above all else. – “Whom have I in heaven but You? … God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever” (Psalm 73:25-26). – “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). Promises to Anchor the Soul • God knows every detail (Psalm 139:1-4). • God notices every injustice (Hebrews 4:13). • God will right every wrong (Romans 2:5-6). • God will vindicate His people (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). • God Himself is our unshakable portion (Psalm 73:26). Putting It All Together When the world sneers, “How can God know?” step into His presence, speak truth to your soul, remember His works, confess the envy, and set your gaze on eternity. The God who numbers hairs and stores tears will vindicate His holiness and your trust in Him. |
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