Psalms 73: 1-3 Surely GOD is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart. But as for me, my feet had almost slipped; I had nearly lost my foothold. For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. [Living Bible Translation]
Summary
Many of the psalms are attributed to David; however, Psalm 73 is attributed to Asaph. (See, heading: “A Psalm of Asaph,” which prefaces Psalm 73. According to many Bible commentaries, Asaph was David’s choir director and a musician. When David brought the Ark of the Covenant back to Jerusalem, he appointed certain of the Levites to minister or worship the Lord in song, praise and prayer. Asaph according to 1 Chronicles 16:4-8 was the chief or director of a choral group of priests.
In Psalm 73 Asaph reflects on the GOODNESS of GOD. Asaph then reflects on his own inner conflict in his envying the wicked—or as he put it “nearly losing his foothold and almost slipping.” And, finally (like Job) Asaph affirms his confidence in GOD’s WISDOM and DIVINE justice in the end.
Banana Facts
Benefits
Bananas are one of the best sources of potassium. The average banana is said to contain about 422mg of potassium or about 9% of the recommended daily allowance. Like all fruits, bananas have carbs. WebMD suggests that if you have diabetes, you can enjoy ½ a banana if you need a snack. See, The Health Benefits of Bananas, www.webmd.com/food-recipes/health-benefits-bananas#1. However, you should consult your own physician about the degree of your diabetes and your diet.
The potassium in bananas helps to lower the risk of strokes, helps with bone health as we age, and helps our muscles work more effectively. Bananas are a good source of Vitamin B6, which helps with metabolism. Vitamin B6 plays an important role in brain development during pregnancy and with the health of the immune system.
Bananas also have about 10 milligrams of Vitamin C. They do not have as much Vitamin C as citrus fruits, like oranges, but they are still a source.
Caution and Concerns
While bananas have significant health benefits, you may want to exercise caution as to how many bananas you consume because of their high sugar content. Remember, the riper the banana the higher the sugar content. Also consuming too much potassium can be harmful to those who do not have fully functional kidneys. Some medications used for heart disease or hypertension may also increase potassium levels. Again, consult your physician about foods that may interact with the medications that you are taking.
Banana Peels and Envy
In Psalms 73 Asaph warns about the human condition of “envy.” Envying others, especially “the wicked” for what they have is like focusing on the peel of the banana instead of the inside! Wealth, like the peel, will be discarded and left behind. It is what is on the inside of a person, not the outside that counts. According to Asaph, envy can cause one to slip or even fall.
Just as we strive for physical health and fitness, Asaph recommends GOD for spiritual and phys-ical health. Asaph says: “HE is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever.” (See, Verse 26)
Today as we meditate on Psalm 73 ask GOD to remove envy or any other distraction from wor-ship. As you eat physical fruit, ask GOD for HIS spiritual fruit too. Make GOD your portion forever.
And, BE BLESSED!
