“Surely God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. They are free from common human burdens; they are not plagued by human ills. 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.” Psalm 73:1-5, 23-28

Dear Heavenly Father, You are gracious with every human being even the wicked. I have to admit that at times I get envious of how gracious you are to them. My own envy clouds my judgment and makes me wonder about your justice. It also reveals that I have a tendency to be more in love with the gifts you give people than you, yourself. Asaph, in this psalm, helps me understand that having you as my creator and redeemer is more than any gift you give anyone. Since I have you and the promise of your eternal friendship I will let go of my concern for how you treat others and I will pray for their salvation rather than envy their freedom for a short time. Amen.

Having God and his promises makes all earthly things look like rummage sale discards.