The psalm is attributed to Asaph, the song leader in David’s court. The opening statement is both a starting point for his reflections and their conclusion. In the psalm he moves from:

• slipping away to coming near
• confusion to understanding
• bitterness to boldness
• dejection to declaration
• from crippling envy to joyful evangelism

Our study continues from the where we left off in verse 15. Asaph saw “the wicked ” around him apparently doing far better than he. They appeared to be prosperous; having no problems; strong & healthy, carefree and proud. He was perplexed and troubled by their apparent ”success” and his apparent losses. He was confused, angry, envious & bitter & could not understand, until he "entered the sanctuary of God; then I understood….” What he understood when he came into the presence of God was the final destination of the wicked. (V17). They were the ones on SLIPPERY GROUND (V18) not he! 

Our study follows the outline below:

Gaining Eternal Perspective:

1. In and Through Worship (v.16-17)
2. Of the End of the Wicked and the Glory of the Saint (v.18-24)

We may find ourselves asking the same questions as the psalmist, but like him we also know where to go for the answers. We go into the “Sanctuary of God”, we go into His presence to worship him. Here we may not get specific answers to all the details which concern us but we are reminded of the ultimate answer and that is:

God is Sovereign
He is the one who reigns
He is the Victor and
He is preparing to take those who believe in him, and all who are steadfast to the end, into GLORY.

Digging Deeper

Discussion Questions

• How did Asaph feel as he thought about this question? (v.16)
• Where did he find the answer?
• What lesson do we learn from this about where to search for answers to life’s tough questions?
• What answer did he discover to this problem?
• What will finally happen to the wicked? When will this happen?
• Who will cause it to happen?
• What do these verses teach us about God’s character?
• How do we see Asaph’s attitude changing in verse 22?
• How do we see prayer changing his feelings and attitude as you go through this chapter?
• How does prayer change us?