When Life Feels Unfair: Trusting God’s Justice (Psalm 73)
Have you ever looked around and wondered why those who ignore God seem to be thriving while those who strive to live righteously struggle? If you’ve ever wrestled with that tension, you’re not alone. Psalm 73 captures this very frustration. Asaph, the writer, was deeply troubled by the prosperity of the wicked. It seemed as if doing the right thing was getting him nowhere. But then, everything changed when he shifted his perspective.
The Struggle with Injustice
But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled; my steps had nearly slipped. For I was envious of the boastful, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. (Psalm 73:2-3, NKJV)
Asaph is brutally honest. He admits that his faith was shaken. He saw people who rejected God living without consequences, while he was striving to do what was right and still suffering. He wondered, Is it even worth it to follow God?
Maybe you’ve felt that way too. You’ve been faithful, honest, and diligent, yet life keeps throwing challenges your way while others seem to glide through with ease. It can be frustrating and disheartening.
The Turning Point: A Shift in Perspective
Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I understood their end. (Psalm 73:17, NKJV)
Everything changed for Asaph when he stepped into God’s presence. His focus shifted from earthly success to eternal realities. He realized that while the wicked may prosper now, their story doesn’t end here. Their foundation is shaky, and their success is fleeting.
This is a powerful reminder for us. When we focus only on what we see in the present, life can seem incredibly unfair. But when we step back and view things through God’s perspective, we remember that this world is not the final chapter.
God’s Presence is Greater Than Prosperity
Nevertheless I am continually with You; You hold me by my right hand. You will guide me with Your counsel, and afterward receive me to glory. (Psalm 73:23-24, NKJV)
Asaph realized that having God is better than having worldly success. The wicked might have wealth, power, or ease, but they do not have what matters most: God’s presence, guidance, and eternal security.
This is a game-changer. Our circumstances may not always make sense, and we may never get all the answers to life’s injustices. But we can trust that God sees, knows, and holds us close. He is our portion. He is our reward.
Choosing to Trust Even When Life Doesn’t Make Sense
So what do we do when we feel like life is unfair?
Be honest with God. Asaph didn’t hide his frustration. Bring your questions to GodHe can handle them.
Shift your focus. When life feels unfair, step into God’s presence. Worship. Pray. Read His Word. Let Him reset your perspective.
Remember what truly matters. This world is temporary, but God’s presence and promises are eternal.
Trust in His justice. God sees everything. He is not blind to injustice, and He will set things right in His perfect time.
Final Thoughts
Psalm 73 reminds us that life won’t always feel fair, but that doesn’t mean God isn’t good. Our hope isn’t in temporary success but in the faithful presence of our loving Father. When you feel like you’re losing your footing, step into the sanctuary of God. He will steady your heart and remind you of what truly lasts.
What’s Next?
This post is part of the Psalms for the Soul series, where we explore the raw, honest moments of faith found in the Book of Psalms. If this resonated with you, check out more devotionals at Psalms for the Soul.
📖 Next up: Psalm 51 – When You’ve Fallen: Finding Redemption.
