Connect Psalm 73:20 to other scriptures about God's judgment on the wicked. The Snap of Awakening “Like one waking from a dream, so You, O Lord, when aroused, will despise their form.” (Psalm 73:20) • The psalmist pictures God “rising” and the wicked instantly vanishing like a half-remembered dream. • Their apparent strength was never solid substance—only a nighttime illusion that disappears in the morning light of God’s presence. Parallel Passages: When Illusions Evaporate Job 20:5-8 — “The triumph of the wicked has been brief… he will fly away like a dream, not to be found.” Isaiah 29:5-8 — “Suddenly, in an instant… the multitude of the ruthless will be like a dream, a night vision.” Psalm 37:35-36 — “I have seen a wicked, ruthless man flourishing… yet he passed away and was no more.” Proverbs 10:25 — “When the whirlwind passes, the wicked are no more, but the righteous are secure forever.” 1 Thessalonians 5:2-3 — “Destruction will come upon them suddenly… and they will not escape.” Revelation 6:15-17 — The great and the small cry to the mountains, “Hide us from the face of Him who sits on the throne!” God “Arises” to Judge • Psalm 7:6 — “Rise up, O LORD, in Your anger; lift Yourself against the rage of my enemies.” • Isaiah 33:10 — “Now I will arise… now I will be exalted.” The moment God acts, judgment is swift and unmistakable. Psalm 73:20 uses the same language—He simply stands, and the wicked melt away. Despised as Illusions: Their Final End • Malachi 4:1 — “All the arrogant and every evildoer will be stubble.” • Matthew 13:40-42 — “As the weeds are collected and burned in the fire, so will it be at the end of the age.” • 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9 — “They will suffer the penalty of eternal destruction, separated from the presence of the Lord.” • Revelation 20:11-15 — The great white throne confirms the ultimate, irreversible verdict. Living in Light of These Truths • Earthly power or prosperity outside of Christ is a mere dream; lasting reality belongs to God’s kingdom. • God’s judgment is not gradual erosion but a sudden awakening—be ready, anchored in the righteousness He provides. • Assurance for the faithful: when the Lord “arises,” every hidden wrong is exposed, every injustice answered, and every promise of protection fulfilled. |
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