[1] A Psalm of Asaph. Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. [2] But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled; my steps had nearly slipped. [3] For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. [4] They have no struggle in their death; their bodies are well-fed. [5] They are free of the burdens others carry; they are not afflicted like other men. [6] Therefore pride is their necklace; a garment of violence covers them. [7] From their prosperity proceeds iniquity; the imaginations of their hearts run wild. [8] They mock and speak with malice; with arrogance they threaten oppression. [9] They set their mouths against the heavens, and their tongues strut across the earth. [10] So their people return to this place and drink up waters in abundance. [11] The wicked say, “How can God know? Does the Most High have knowledge?” [12] Behold, these are the wicked —always carefree as they increase their wealth. [13] Surely in vain I have kept my heart pure; in innocence I have washed my hands. [14] For I am afflicted all day long and punished every morning. [15] If I had said, “I will speak this way,” then I would have betrayed Your children. [16] When I tried to understand all this, it was troublesome in my sight [17] until I entered God’s sanctuary; then I discerned their end. [18] Surely You set them on slick ground; You cast them down into ruin. [19] How suddenly they are laid waste, completely swept away by terrors! [20] Like one waking from a dream, so You, O Lord, awaken and despise their form. [21] When my heart was grieved and I was pierced within, [22] I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before You. [23] Yet I am always with You; You hold my right hand. [24] You guide me with Your counsel, and later receive me in glory. [25] Whom have I in heaven but You? And on earth I desire no one besides You. [26] My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. [27] Those far from You will surely perish; You destroy all who are unfaithful to You. [28] 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.
