What does Psalm 73:11 reveal about the mindset of the wicked? Setting the Verse in View “ ‘How does God know? Does the Most High have knowledge?’ ” (Psalm 73:11) What the Question Reveals • A settled conviction that God is either ignorant or indifferent • An arrogant tone that assumes the speaker’s intellect surpasses God’s • An attempt to soothe a guilty conscience by denying divine oversight Key Mindset Markers • Disbelief in God’s omniscience (contrast Psalm 139:1–4) • Hardened pride that refuses correction (Proverbs 16:18) • Practical atheism—living as though God were absent (Psalm 14:1) • Short-sightedness about judgment (Ecclesiastes 8:11; Hebrews 9:27) Roots and Progression 1. Doubt is entertained (“How does God know?”). 2. Doubt matures into denial (“Does the Most High have knowledge?”). 3. Denial emboldens sinful behavior (Psalm 73:7–9). 4. Sinful behavior reinforces the illusion of impunity (Job 22:13). Consequences Highlighted Later in the Psalm • Sudden, irreversible ruin (vv. 18–20) • Eternal separation from God (v. 27) • Vindication of God’s justice (v. 28) Living Application • Trust that God sees every thought and deed (2 Chronicles 16:9). • Resist pride by daily acknowledging His all-knowing presence (James 4:6–8). • Let the certainty of His awareness steer choices toward holiness (1 Peter 1:15–16). Summary Snapshot Psalm 73:11 pulls back the curtain on a heart that tries to silence accountability by questioning God’s knowledge. Scripture answers that God’s sight is perfect, His justice sure, and the only safe path is humble faith and obedience. |
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