Psalms 73:20

Psalms 73:20

**Meaning & Context** (200 words)

Psalm 73 sits within the Asaphite psalms exploring the perplexing issue of the prosperity of the wicked contrasted with the suffering of the righteous. The psalmist begins with trust in God but then confesses stumbling over the visibility of earthly success—especially of those who live without regard for God. Verse 20 uses a vivid metaphor: “As a dream when one awaketh; so, O Lord, when thou awakest, thou shalt despise their image.” Here, the psalmist anticipates a divine reversal. To interpret, we must understand the image of “their image” as the idols, status, and worldly pretensions that the wicked chase—affordable, enticing, and hollow representations of power. The awakening of the Lord signals judgment or the unveiling of truth: when God rises to act, the empty idols collapse, and their “image”—their false sense of security—will be despised as nothing. This is not just cosmic doom but a pivot toward ultimate justice. The verse is a compact expression of trust: in God’s future intervention, the present visible success of the wicked will be exposed as delusion.

**Theological Significance** (150 words)

Theologically, this verse anchors the biblical anticipation that God sees the true worth of things and will ultimately set right the inverted values of the world. It emphasizes God’s sovereignty over images and idols—what people chase for security and meaning will be judged as worthless when God acts. It also reinforces the rhythm of the Psalms: honest lament followed by confident hope in God’s unshakable character. The idea that God will despise the “image” of the wicked points to the demolition of associated illusions—materialism, reputational power, and self-reliance—that stand in rebellion against the Creator. This is not a casual remark but a trajectory toward redemption, where the hollow pursuits are replaced by the true image of God’s people sharing in his life.

**Modern Application** (150 words)

Today, this verse invites reflection on what we value as “image” or identity. Do we chase the next promotion, social media clout, or status symbols, assuming they secure happiness? The psalmist’s expectation that God will despise hollow images calls us to scrutinize our priorities. Practical steps: audit your daily metrics of success, prune idols (even subtly acquired ones like comfort, escape, or control), and cultivate inner contentment rooted in God’s presence. When you feel envy or despair at others’ apparent ease, rehearse this verse as a reminder that God sees beyond appearances and will reveal truth in his timing. Let the coming “awakening” shape your choices today—prefer righteousness, generosity, and authentic relationship over transient displays of power.

**Cross-References**: Psalm 37:1-2; Psalm 115:4-8; Isaiah 40:17; Habakkuk 2:18; 1 John 2:17