Psalms part 2:2

Psalm 40: Lament of a Dedicated Man: Deeply thankful for all God has done, David has fully dedicated himself to the Lord. Yet, David cries out for mercy, for even total commitment has not given him an easy life. Although poor and needy, David rejoices in the Lord, "my help and my deliver".

Psalm 49: A Meditation on Wealth and Wickedness: The psalmist announces he is about to solve one of life's perplexing riddles. The wicked who prosper materially are not really blessed, for they trust their wealth and die like animals, without hope. Ultimately the upright will rule, for God will take them to himself. Thus, the believer need not be envious when the ungodly man grow rich, for the doom of such men is sure.

Psalm 50: A vision of God's Heavenly Court: Asaph describes God's courtroom, where the wicked are indicated. The glorious judge takes his seat to judge his covenant people. they are examined on two issues: Formalism in worship and wickedness in their relationships with others. The psalmists vision is to warn God's people away from those actions which will most surely be judged.

Psalm 73: Pondering the Prosperity of the Wicked: Asaph confesses envy of the carefree life of the wicked in this world. He became bitter feeling his own commitment to godliness was all in vain. Then while worshiping, he realized the very prosperity of the wicked was "slippery ground" for they felt no need of God and were vulnerable to judgement. Suddenly Asaph felt foolish and relieved. He had God, now and forever. And having God as his portion far outweighs a carefree life.