Meaning of Psalms 73:10

This verse, "Therefore their people turn to them and drink up waters in abundance," from Psalm 73 describes the allure and deceptive prosperity of the wicked. The psalmist, Asaph, is grappling with the apparent success of those who disregard God, observing that their followers and adherents are drawn to them, finding sustenance and satisfaction in their worldly ways. This "drinking up waters in abundance" signifies the uncritical acceptance and enthusiastic embrace of the wicked's lifestyle, philosophies, and material gains by those who are influenced by them. It highlights how the apparent flourishing of the ungodly can be a powerful temptation, drawing many to emulate their paths, seeking similar superficial fulfillment.

Context and Background

Psalm 73 is a psalm of Asaph, a Levitical musician and seer, who expresses his deep distress and confusion over the prosperity of the wicked. He begins by confessing his near-stumble, his feet almost slipping as he observed the ease and abundance enjoyed by those who are arrogant and defiant towards God (v. 3-9). The verse in question, Psalm 73:10, is part of this observation. Asaph notes that the wicked not only prosper materially but also gain a following. Their influence is widespread, and people are drawn to their success, seeking to emulate them and benefit from their perceived abundance.

Key Themes and Messages

• The Deceptive Allure of Worldly Prosperity: The verse underscores how the material success and apparent ease of the wicked can be a strong temptation. People are drawn to what seems to be a life of abundance and satisfaction, even if its source is ungodly.
• Influence and Following: The phrase "their people turn to them" indicates that the wicked exert a significant influence. They gather adherents who are captivated by their success and adopt their ways.
• Superficial Sustenance: "Drink up waters in abundance" suggests a superficial satisfaction. The followers are not receiving true spiritual nourishment but are consuming what the wicked offer, which ultimately proves to be empty or harmful.
• The Psalmist's Struggle: This verse is crucial to understanding Asaph's internal struggle. He is battling the perception that righteousness is not rewarded and that wickedness leads to a more appealing life.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, this verse serves as a warning against being swayed by the visible success of those who live apart from God. It calls believers to discernment, urging them to look beyond superficial appearances and to evaluate the ultimate source and nature of prosperity. The temptation to "drink from the wells of the wicked" is ever-present, whether it's through envy of their material wealth, admiration for their social influence, or adoption of their morally compromised lifestyles. True spiritual sustenance comes from God, not from the fleeting and often destructive paths of the ungodly.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

The theme of the prosperity of the wicked and the struggles of the righteous is a recurring motif throughout Scripture. From the story of Cain's lineage in Genesis to the prophetic pronouncements against nations in the Old Testament, and Jesus' parables about the sower and the rich fool, the Bible consistently contrasts the temporary allure of worldly success with the enduring reality of God's kingdom. Psalm 73, and this verse in particular, anticipates the New Testament emphasis on seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, trusting that true abundance is found in Him, not in worldly gain.

Analogies

• A Mirage in the Desert: The "waters in abundance" can be likened to a mirage in the desert. It appears to offer life-sustaining water, drawing thirsty travelers towards it, but upon closer inspection, it is an illusion that leads to further disappointment and peril.
• A Sweet Poison: The allure of the wicked's lifestyle can be compared to a sweet poison. It is enticing and pleasurable on the surface, but its consumption leads to spiritual death and destruction.
• A Flock Following a Wolf: The people turning to the wicked are like sheep being drawn to a wolf in disguise. The wolf presents an image of safety or provision, but its true intention is to devour.

Relation to Other Verses

This verse resonates with several other biblical passages:

• Psalm 37:1-2: "Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the wicked. For they will soon be cut down like the grass, and wither like the green herb." This directly addresses the psalmist's initial distress and offers a corrective perspective.
• Jeremiah 17:5-6: "Thus says the LORD: 'Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his arm, and whose heart turns away from the LORD. For he will be like a shrub in the desert, and shall not see when good comes; he shall dwell in parched places in the wilderness, in a salt land where no one lives.'" This highlights the ultimate barrenness of trusting in human endeavors apart from God.
• Matthew 6:33: "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." This New Testament verse offers the antidote, directing believers to seek true abundance from the right source.
• 1 John 2:15-17: "Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away, along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever." This passage warns against the allure of worldly pursuits that draw people away from God.