The Bible Says
Psalm 73:15-20 Meaning

In this section of Psalm 73, Asaph grapples with the inner turmoil of speaking wrongly in the midst of God’s people. He confesses, If I had said, I will speak thus, behold, I would have betrayed the generation of Your children (v. 15). His words here in Psalm 73:15-20, show concern that voicing his doubts publicly would bring harm to fellow believers. He perceives the weight of responsibility as one who has influence among God’s people. His honesty underscores the profound sense of guilt he would feel if he misled others.

Asaph then describes his distress, saying, When I pondered to understand this, it was troublesome in my sight (v. 16). He is weighed down by the confusion of why the wicked seem to prosper. The issue presses on him so heavily that he finds nothing but turmoil when he tries to reconcile these moments of injustice with God’s righteousness. In his struggle, Asaph models what it means to wrestle honestly with the questions of faith.

The tension shifts when he declares, Until I came into the sanctuary of God; Then I perceived their end (v. 17). Asaph’s revelation occurs in the presence of the Lord, where truth clarifies his perspective. Instead of continuing in distress, he experiences assurance in God’s ultimate justice. This highlights that turning to God’s presence, whether through prayer or communal worship, often reframes our understanding of life’s trials. Jesus affirmed a similar principle: true insight often comes when the heart is guided by God rather than human reasoning (John 14:26).

Asaph continues by recognizing God’s sovereignty in dealing with the arrogant: Surely You set them in slippery places; You cast them down to destruction (v. 18). Although from a human viewpoint it seems the arrogant flourish, Asaph now sees their footing is precarious. No matter how secure they appear, their position is not as firm as the people of God’s kingdom. This stark image reminds us that God, in His time, addresses injustice and exalts righteousness (2 Peter 3:9).

He further describes their downfall, exclaiming, How they are destroyed in a moment! They are utterly swept away by sudden terrors (v. 19). This gives insight into the sudden and irreversible nature of judgement that can come upon those who live without regard for God. Just as the wicked can seem strong one day, they can be gone the next. This fleeting security contrasts with the enduring promise given to those who trust in the LORD (Psalm 37:28).

Finally, Asaph illustrates the transience of the godless with a vivid picture: Like a dream when one awakes, O Lord, when aroused, You will despise their form (v. 20). Dreams fade quickly upon waking, leaving only faint impressions. In the same way, those who harden themselves against God will vanish from the stage of history, unable to stand before His holiness. Asaph’s realization reinforces the idea that presenting our doubts to God leads us to confidence in His ultimate justice and truth.