This psalm is a favorite for many because it rings so true to our feelings and experience. Many of us have felt disappointed in God. When we feel life has treated us unfairly, we often betray our belief in the sovereignty of God by blaming and abandoning him! The psalm confesses what we are afraid to admit, and so helps us to be honest before God about life’s temptations and our readiness to sell out. The psalm’s first half is largely negative (vv. 1–14) and the second half largely positive (vv. 15–28). Marking this pivot is the beginning of direct address to God (“your children,” v. 15). As noted below, key words (particularly evident in the Hb. text) help to mark the sections and development of the psalm. This psalm is particularly about the heart (vv. 1, 7, 13, 21, 26).

73:1–5 The open…