Psalm73 - Asaph acknowledges at the outset of this psalm that he had been seriously tempted to forsake his faith. He witnessed the injustices of life, and particularly the truth that wicked people often prosper. “They are not in trouble like other men, nor are they plagued like other men...their eyes bulge with abundance; they have more than heart could wish...these are the ungodly who are always at ease...” He goes so far as to question whether or not he had been serving God in vain (v.13-14).

Notice, however, that his frame of reference is changed when he “went into the sanctuary of God” and “understood their end” (v.17). Worship helps us to keep our head on straight. As we focus upon what is divine, holy, righteous, eternal, and just, the injustices and temporality of this world are put in their proper perspective. Yes, sinful and rebellious men often prosper in this life. They revel in their pride and abundance; often abuse and oppress others; seem at times to be above judgment and secure from retribution. But my regular presence in the “sanctuary of God” serves to remind me that our holy, righteous, and all-knowing Lord sits upon the throne of God and that every man will bow before Him and give account for his actions. It is this consideration that keeps us grounded, keeps us balanced, keeps us focused on things of true eternal value. And when tempted to think poorly of our conviction and service, it is often worship that becomes our way of escape.

Isn’t it a shame that we so very often neglect that which is so crucial to our continued trust in God?