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Psalm 73:21-28  

When my heart was grieved and my spirit embittered, I was senseless and ignorant; I was a brute beast before you. Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory. Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Those who are far from you will perish; you destroy all who are unfaithful to you. But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds. 

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 “envied 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.” Check out four benefits found in today’s passage.   

I am always 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 me by my right hand. Asaph said, “…my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold.” But the Father held him steady “by [his] right hand.” Security!

You guide me with your counsel. As we approach detours 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 take me into glory. After this short time on earth…there awaits an eternity (!) for all who know God through His Son Jesus Christ. Forever! 

Father, thank You for Your constant presence, security, and protection. And thank You that one day You will take me into Your eternal glory! In Jesus’ name. Amen.