Asaph, a poor righteous man, compared his life to the rich wicked and saw stark contrasts. He saw four advantages to their wealth (3-4). Now he will determine the effects that their arrogant prosperity has on their personality and relationships.
The rich wicked were prideful (6). They showed off their pride. Ancient Middle Eastern cultures’ civil leaders wore necklaces and special clothing, announcing their office. In the same way, the rich wicked announced their pride and violence like a gold chain and special clothing. They wanted everyone to know who they were and what they were capable of to induce fear and awe.
The wicked rich have callous hearts. They do not feel love, mercy, or compassion. Their thoughts are consumed with gross immorality and injustice. They believe they can do anything. They purchase the law and are so full of self-conceit and ability that nothing can stop them (7). They threaten anyone who even thinks of stopping their plans (8).
They set their eyes and plans on conquest not only on earth and the cosmos, but even on heaven. They claim the desire and plan to take everything for themselves and their pleasure (9). Others eagerly believe in their abilities and join in their conquests. They convince themselves that the Most High God does not have the abilities that they do. They say that he does not know that they plan to overthrow him (10-11).
Asaph concludes, “This is what the wicked are like– always carefree, they increase in wealth.” (12) How do I obtain? Am I tempted to bend the truth to obtain a little more? Do I believe that God either doesn’t know, or perhaps will allow me to do that which goes against his ways? Does Asaph find resolution to his crisis of faith?
