Wicked Prospers And Righteous Suffer. Series

It is a common observation that wicked people often seem to prosper in life, while the righteous suffer. This phenomenon can be perplexing and even disillusioning for believers. In this sermon, we will explore the biblical teachings on this paradox and examine the reasons behind the prosperity of the wicked.

The Biblical Description of the Prosperity of the Wicked

The Bible describes the prosperity of the wicked in several passages. In Psalm 73:3-12, the psalmist Asaph writes, "For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggles; their bodies are healthy and strong. They are free from the burdens common to humanity; they are not plagued by human ills. Therefore pride is their necklace; they clothe themselves with violence. From their callous hearts comes iniquity; their evil imaginations have no limits. They scoff, and speak with malice; in their arrogance they threaten oppression. Their mouths claim heaven, and their tongues take possession of the earth."

The Reasons Behind the Prosperity of the Wicked

The Bible provides several reasons why the wicked may prosper in life. One reason is that God may be giving them a temporary reprieve, allowing them to continue in their wicked ways before ultimately facing judgment. In Ecclesiastes 8:11, the wise writer says, "When the sentence for a crime is not quickly carried out, people's hearts are filled with schemes to do wrong."

Another reason for the prosperity of the wicked is that they may be reaping the temporary benefits of their sinful actions. In Hosea 10:13, the prophet Hosea writes, "But you have planted wickedness, you have reaped evil, you have eaten the fruit of deception. Because you have depended on your own strength and on your many warriors." This passage emphasizes that the wicked may reap temporary benefits from their sinful actions, but ultimately they will face judgment and destruction.

The Biblical Warning Against Envying the Wicked

The Bible warns us against envying the wicked and their prosperity. In Psalm 37:1-2, the psalmist David writes, "Do not fret because of those who are evil or be envious of those who do wrong; for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away." This passage emphasizes that the wicked may prosper temporarily, but ultimately they will face judgment and destruction.

Practical Ways to Avoid Envying the Wicked

So how can we avoid envying the wicked and their prosperity? Here are some practical steps:

1. Trust in God's Sovereignty: Trust in God's sovereignty, recognizing that He is the one who ultimately controls the destiny of all people. In Psalm 37:3-4, the psalmist David writes, "Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart."

2. Focus on Your Own Spiritual Growth: Focus on your own spiritual growth, recognizing that this is the key to true prosperity and happiness. In 1 Timothy 4:7-8, the apostle Paul writes, "Have nothing to do with godless myths and old wives' tales; rather, train yourself to be godly. For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come."

3. Avoid Comparing Yourself to Others: Avoid comparing yourself to others, recognizing that this can lead to envy and discontentment. In 2 Corinthians 10:12, the apostle Paul writes, "We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise."

4. Seek to Live a Life of Integrity and Righteousness: Seek to live a life of integrity and righteousness, recognizing that this is the key to true prosperity and happiness. In Psalm 1:1-3, the psalmist writes, "Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not witherwhatever they do prospers."

5. Cultivate a Spirit of Contentment and Gratitude: Cultivate a spirit of contentment and gratitude, this is the key to true happiness and fulfillment. In 1 Timothy 6:6-8, the apostle Paul writes, "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food , clothing, and shelter, we will be content with that."

The prosperity of the wicked can be a perplexing and disillusioning phenomenon for believers. However, the Bible provides guidance and wisdom on how to navigate this issue. As we trust in God's sovereignty, focus on our own spiritual growth, avoid comparing ourselves to others, seek to live a life of integrity and righteousness, and cultivate a spirit of contentment and gratitude, may we find true happiness and fulfillment in our walk with God.