Psalms 73:12
Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches.
Psalms 73:12
The psalmist pauses to name the contrast explicitly: “Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches.” In the broader psalm, the poet is reorienting from personal grievance to communal critique. The “ungodly” are those who disregard God’s law, yet they gain wealth and influence. This is not a mere economic complaint; it’s a spiritual concern: prosperity, when acquired without reverence for God, becomes a form of deceit or moral danger. The cultural setting links wealth with status and security; thus, the temptation is to imitate or envy rather than confront injustice. The verse captures a pivotal moment of impulse: to condemn the wicked by outward measures, instead of recognizing that outward success is not a final criterion of righteousness. It’s a setup for the psalmist’s later transformation—seeing life from God’s perspective rather than from human standards.
Theologically, this verse confronts the ethics of wealth and the danger of prosperity without godliness. It challenges readers to interrogate where security comes from. The temptation to judge by external success is strong, but the biblical story repeatedly insists that human appearances are not reliable indicators of one’s standing before God. The verse also frames the problem of evil within God’s overall plan of justice. The short-term prosperity of the wicked will be weighed in judgment. The passage invites believers to redefine prosperity in terms of fidelity to God rather than mere accumulation.
Practically, this verse prompts honest reflection: Am I tempted to measure success by wealth, influence, or comfort? If so, consider re-grounding your metrics in faithfulness—acts of mercy, integrity in work, and devotion to God. It also cautions against comparisons that fuel discontent. Instead, use your resources to bless others and to invest in eternal values (charity, justice, gospel sharing). For communities, it’s a reminder to resist elevating leaders or systems that monetize advantage, and to pursue transparent, ethical practices. When you see others prosper without moral restraint, pray for them and also reflect on how your own life can remain anchored in God’s ways, recognizing that true prosperity rests in relationship with God.
Cross-References: Job 27:8-10; Psalm 37:16-21; Proverbs 11:28; James 5:1-6; Luke 12:15