Psalm 73:23-28
Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. For behold, those who are far from you shall perish; you put an end to everyone who is unfaithful to you. But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all your works.

Asaph was discouraged. Even though he was the leader of one of King David’s three Levitical choirs, even though he was serving the Lord, Asaph “was envious of the arrogant when [he] saw the prosperity of the wicked.” But then he gained an eternal perspective. In contrast to the temporary gains of the “wicked,” Asaph noted “The God Advantage.” Let’s consider four benefits found in today’s passage.

I am continually with you. The personal relationship we have with the eternal God is more precious than any earthly possession. The Creator is always with us, living in us. Presence!

You hold my right hand. Asaph said, “…My feet had almost stumbled, my steps had nearly slipped.” But the Father held him steady with his strong right hand. Security!

You guide me with your counsel. As we approach forks in the road, God warns us of the dangerous path and guides us along the right way. God’s Word is light for the journey. Protection!

And afterward you will receive me to glory. After this short time on earth…there awaits an eternity (!) for all who know God through his Son Jesus Christ. He will be our portion forever. Forever!

Father, thank you that death is only a transition to eternal life. Thank you that one day you will take me into glory where I am forever in your presence. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

As we wrap up another year, I want to thank you for engaging in God’s Word with me every day. It is a privilege to have this time with you.  On January 1, we will begin a 31-day devotional series called Standing Firm in Unshakable Faith. With everything going on in our world, we want to stand firm in the confidence we have because of Jesus. Invite a friend or someone in your family to join us so we can stand firm together.