1 God is indeed good to Israel, to those pure in heart.
2 Now as for me, my feet nearly stumbled, as I almost lost my step.
3 For I was envious of the proud when I observed the prosperity of the wicked.
4 For there is no struggle at their deaths, and their bodies are healthy.
5 They do not experience problems common to ordinary people; they aren't afflicted as others are.
6 Therefore pride is their necklace and violence covers them like a garment.
7 Their eyes bulge from obesity and the imaginations of their mind cross the border into sin.
8 In their mockery they speak evil; from their arrogant position they speak oppression.
9 They choose to speak against heaven; while they talk about things on earth.
10 Therefore God's people return there and drink it all in like water until they're satiated.
11 Then they say, "How can God know? Does the Most High have knowledge?"
12 Just look at these wicked people! They're perpetually carefree as they increase their wealth.
13 I kept my heart pure for nothing and kept my hands clean from guilt.
14 For I suffer all day long and I am punished every morning.
15 If I say, "I will talk like this," I would betray a generation of your children.
16 When I tried to understand this, it was too difficult for me
17 until I entered the sanctuaries of God. Then I understood their destiny.
18 You have certainly set them in slippery places; you will make them fall to their ruin.
19 How desolate they quickly become, completely destroyed by calamities.
20 Like a dream when one awakens, Lord, you will despise their image when you arise.
21 When I chose to be bitter I was emotionally pained.
22 Then, I was too stupid and didn't realize I was acting like a wild animal with you.
23 But now I am always with you, for you keep holding my right hand.
24 You will guide me with your wise advice, and later you will receive me with honor.
25 Whom do I have in heaven but you? I desire nothing on this earth.
26 My body and mind may fail, but God is my strength and my portion forever.
27 Those far from you will perish; you will destroy those who are unfaithful to you.
28 As for me, how good for me it is that God is near! I have made the Lord GOD my refuge so I can tell about all your deeds. An instruction of Asaph