How can we reconcile Psalm 73:4 with Jesus' teachings on eternal rewards? Seeing the Tension Psalm 73:4: “For they have no struggle; their bodies are healthy and strong.” • Asaph observes that the ungodly seem untouched by trouble. • At first glance this looks at odds with Jesus’ call to “store up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:20) and His promise of eternal reward. Asaph’s Momentary Lens • Psalm 73 describes a believer looking only at life “under the sun.” • He measures worth by present comfort, not by final outcome. • Verses 16–17 record his shift: “When I tried to understand all this, it was troublesome to me until I entered the sanctuary of God; then I discerned their end”. • The apparent ease of the wicked is temporary; their ultimate destiny is “destruction” (v. 18–19). Jesus’ Eternal Lens • Matthew 6:19–21—earthly wealth is moth-eaten; heavenly treasure is eternal. • Luke 16:19–31—earthly luxury can end in eternal torment; the beggar’s lack can end in glory. • Mark 8:36—“What does it profit a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?”. Reconciling the Two Perspectives 1. Different Horizons • Psalm 73:4 focuses on the now; Jesus focuses on forever. 2. Temporary Prosperity vs. Ultimate Reality • Asaph learns the wicked stand “on slippery ground” (v. 18). • Jesus affirms the same: “the rich man also died and was buried, and in Hades he lifted up his eyes” (Luke 16:22–23). 3. Reward for Faithfulness • Psalm 73 ends with “God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever” (v. 26). • Jesus promises a “hundredfold” and “eternal life” to those who follow Him (Mark 10:29–30). 4. Heart Orientation • Asaph moves from envy to worship (v. 25). • Jesus commands, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). Living It Out Today • Resist envy—measure life by eternity, not by ease. • Worship in the “sanctuary” of God’s presence; perspective shifts there. • Invest time, talents, and resources in kingdom purposes; they outlast every earthly benefit (2 Corinthians 4:17–18). • Rest assured: present injustices will be reversed when Christ rewards each according to what he has done (Revelation 22:12). |
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