There have been many who have strayed from the presence of God, they have abandoned the Lord to practice evil and become greatly rich. That is why judgment will fall on each of those who have turned away from the Lord if they do not return in time to the Lord God of hosts.
Throughout history, Scripture has shown us that the apparent prosperity of those who turn away from God is only temporary. Many men and women choose paths that seem profitable, paths filled with ambition, power, and material gain, yet these paths often require abandoning reverence for God. When the fear of the Lord disappears from the heart, moral boundaries are crossed, and the conscience becomes insensitive. What seems like success before the eyes of the world becomes a serious spiritual loss before God.
For the Lord is God over all things, and in Him there is life, since we pass from death to eternal life. But if we, as children of God and with the security that we have, turn away from Him, then the judgment of the Lord will come, fall and destroy everyone who turns away from his path.
This truth reminds us that belonging to God is not merely a title, but a calling that requires perseverance and faithfulness. Knowing God and having received His grace does not exempt anyone from responsibility. On the contrary, it demands a life of obedience, humility, and dependence on Him. When a believer deliberately chooses to walk away from God’s ways, they expose themselves to correction and, if there is no repentance, to judgment.
In chapter 73, in verse 27, Asaph shows the sentence that is given to the man who turns away from the way of the Lord. But below he also talks about how he had to continue on the path of the Lord because He is his hope.
Asaph’s testimony is especially powerful because it is honest and deeply human. Earlier in the psalm, he confesses his struggle when he saw the prosperity of the wicked. He admits that his heart was troubled and that his steps almost slipped. However, when he entered the sanctuary of God, his understanding was renewed. He realized that the apparent success of those far from God would end in ruin, while those who remain close to the Lord would find true security.
For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee.
Psalms 73:27
This verse clearly teaches that distance from God is not a neutral state. To be far from Him is to walk toward destruction. The language used by the psalmist is strong because spiritual unfaithfulness is serious before the Lord. Turning away from God is not simply a change of direction; it is a rejection of the source of life, truth, and righteousness.
The good of God will always be with those who keep his path and do not depart. This is our hope and our refuge. Turning away from the almighty God will cause great evil in our lives. God’s judgment will come and reach everyone who turns away from the Lord.
Remaining in the path of the Lord does not mean a life free from trials. On the contrary, believers often face difficulties, opposition, and moments of testing. However, the difference lies in the presence of God. Those who remain faithful experience His guidance, His comfort, and His protection, even in the midst of hardship. The judgment mentioned here is not arbitrary, but righteous, flowing from God’s holiness and justice.
It is evident that Asaph knew that being away from the presence of the Lord was the one thing he could not do, since his feet and his heart would lead him down the slide.
This confession reveals spiritual maturity. Asaph understood his own weakness and recognized that without God’s presence, his heart would be easily deceived. This awareness is essential for every believer. When we acknowledge our dependence on God, we are more vigilant in prayer, more sensitive to His voice, and more committed to walking according to His will.
As children of God, we must pay close attention to this call. Pray to the Lord if you feel that your heart is moving away, so that God may give you strength and help you. God bless you.
This passage invites us to examine our own hearts. Are we drawing nearer to God, or are subtle distractions pulling us away? The Lord is merciful and always ready to receive those who return to Him with a sincere heart. Let us seek His presence daily, walk in His truth, and remain firm on the path that leads to life. Only in Him will we find lasting peace, true fulfillment, and eternal hope.