How can we guard against the influence described in Psalm 73:10 today? Setting the Scene Psalm 73:10 states, “Therefore their people turn to them and drink in their overflowing words.” Asaph is observing how the arrogant and ungodly gain followers; their smooth talk and apparent success lure others to “drink” deeply of whatever they say. The danger is real today: worldly voices still attract hearts, subtly reshaping values and priorities. Why This Influence Is So Alluring • Success appears to validate their message (vv. 3 – 12) • Their speech is confident, even brazen (v. 8) • They promise freedom yet model self-indulgence (cf. 2 Peter 2:18-19) • Many feel overlooked or weary and reach for any message that seems to “work” Biblical Safeguards for the Heart 1. Fix your gaze on God’s character • Psalm 73:17—Asaph’s perspective changed “when I entered the sanctuary of God.” • Hebrews 12:2—“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith.” Intentional worship and Scripture reading recalibrate what “success” and “good” truly mean. 2. Guard your thought life • Proverbs 4:23—“Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life.” • Romans 12:2—“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Replace cultural catchphrases with God’s unchanging truth. 3. Filter voices you allow to shape you • 1 Corinthians 15:33—“Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” • Psalm 1:1-2—Blessing flows to the one who “does not walk in the counsel of the wicked.” Evaluate books, podcasts, social media, friendships—anything that consistently defines values for you. 4. Cultivate biblical community • Hebrews 10:24-25—“Let us consider how to spur one another on toward love and good deeds… encouraging one another.” • Ecclesiastes 4:12—A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. God-centered relationships provide both encouragement and accountability, diluting the pull of ungodly narratives. 5. Keep an eternal perspective • Psalm 73:18-19—God shows Asaph the final end of the wicked. • 2 Corinthians 4:18—“We fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen… what is unseen is eternal.” Remembering final outcomes guards us from envy and short-sighted choices. Practical Steps for Everyday Life • Begin each day with a short portion of Scripture—anchor first thoughts in truth. • Limit media intake that normalizes sin or ridicules righteousness. • Memorize a verse each week; speak it aloud when worldly slogans surface. • Engage in a small group or Bible class where honest discussion and correction are welcomed. • Serve in a ministry; hands-on obedience reinforces that God’s ways are good and satisfying. • Regularly recount testimonies of God’s faithfulness—your own and others’. Gratitude dulls the appeal of worldly fame. Encouragement for the Journey Asaph’s wrestling ends in renewed confidence: “But as for me, it is good to draw near to God. I have made the Lord GOD my refuge, that I may proclaim all Your works” (Psalm 73:28). The same promise stands today. By drawing near, guarding our minds, and walking with wise companions, we can resist the seductive pull of Psalm 73:10 and shine as steadfast witnesses in a restless world. |
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