MAIN IDEA || God provides wisdom to help us rest with contentment even when unbelievers unfairly seem to get along & get ahead in the world. PROBLEM “I envy the of the pridefully arrogant.” Psalm 73:1-5,12-14 [ NLT ] A psalm of Asaph. 1 Truly God is good to Israel, to those whose hearts are pure. 2 But as for me, I almost lost my footing. My feet were slipping, and I was almost gone. 3 For I envied the proud when I saw them prosper despite their wickedness. 4 They seem to live such painless lives; their bodies are so healthy and strong. 5 They don’t have troubles like other people; they’re not plagued with problems like everyone else. 12 Look at these wicked people— enjoying a life of ease while their riches multiply. “I’m so confused & bitter wondering why my hasn’t paid off.” 13 Did I keep my heart pure for nothing? Did I keep myself innocent for no reason? 14 I get nothing but trouble all day long; every morning brings me pain. ANSWER “I’m contemplating & comparing the of the lives of the arrogant & the faithful.” Psalm 73:17 [ NLT ] 17 Then I went into your sanctuary, O God, and I finally understood the destiny of the wicked. “You give me what I really need: you keep me near you.” Psalm 73:23-26 [ NLT ] 23 Yet I still belong to you; you hold my right hand. 24 You guide me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. 25 Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth. 26 My health may fail, and my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; he is mine forever. When life’s outcomes are frustrating, honest questions for God are . Psalm 74:1-3,10-11 [ NLT ] 1 O God, why have you rejected us so long? Why is your anger so intense against the sheep of your own pasture? 2 Remember that we are the people you chose long ago, the tribe you redeemed as your own special possession! And remember Jerusalem, your home here on earth. 3 Walk through the awful ruins of the city; see how the enemy has destroyed your sanctuary. __ 10 How long, O God, will you allow our enemies to insult you? Will you let them dishonor your name forever? 11 Why do you hold back your strong right hand? Unleash your powerful fist and destroy them. How Do I Face Frustration? Allow God to form in you contentment in His provision & confidence in His plans. Ask honest questions & express heartfelt frustrations. Pursue God’s answers with as much passion as you ask the questions. CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION: 1. Is your faith in God ever shaken by injustices? 2. Does any part of the psalmist’s description of that feeling resonate with you? Psalm 73:1-2 [ NLT ] A psalm of Asaph. 1 Truly God is good to Israel, to those whose hearts are pure. 2 But as for me, I almost lost my footing. My feet were slipping, and I was almost gone. 3. Do you ever see reasons for discouragement in God’s church? 4. How does the psalm help you or strengthen your faith or answer your questions?