Pastor's Column 7/26/2026

PASTOR’S COLUMN

² “But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold.  ³ For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.” ²³  Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. ²⁴ You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory. ²⁵ Whom have I in heaven but you?  And earth has nothing I desire besides you, ²⁶ My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Psalm 73:2-3;23-26, NIV                                                                                                                                                         

 “Remain Grounded!”

The writer of this psalm lived a comfortable life, but one that was not marked with extravagant wealth or greed. He was faithful to his ministry - which was a worship leader in the sanctuary but did not use his position to live a life of greed. This is undoubtedly why he is so passionate about the excesses of others. The writer, Aesap, believes honoring God and respecting His divine teachings is required and necessary to live the “best” life.  As far back as the 4^th Century B.C. ancient philosophers were debating the question, “What constitutes the best life?” Most of the best answers, which we also find in the Scriptures, centered around living a life consistent with moral responsibility; sound ethical conduct and being fair and just with others. When these principles are absent, there is always a plea and cry for doing what is right and just with each other. Asaph was incensed with what he saw as he walked in the marketplace and the civic arena. He was incensed by the sheer fact that the arrogance and dishonesty of the wealthy and people in power continued unabated. Why were these people given so much power over others? The psalmist said as these thoughts gripped him, he “almost” slipped. Rather than losing his life and abandoning the moral/spiritual compass that guided him, Asaph turned to God and found strength and direction in the God of all creation. In this day when we see the reprehensible behavior of others, remain grounded!