Psalms 73:28

KJV

But [it is] good for me to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all thy works.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {H589} it is good {H2896} for me to draw near {H7132} to God {H430}: I have put {H7896}{H8804)} my trust {H4268} in the Lord {H136} GOD {H3069}, that I may declare {H5608}{H8763)} all thy works {H4399}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made Adonai ELOHIM my refuge, so that I can tell of all your works.

Berean Standard Bible

But as for me, it is good to draw near to God. I have made the Lord GOD my refuge, that I may proclaim all Your works.

American Standard Version

But it is good for me to draw near unto God: I have made the Lord Jehovah my refuge, That I may tell of all thy works.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Psalms 73:28 serves as the climactic declaration of Asaph's spiritual journey, encapsulating his profound shift from agonizing doubt and envy over the prosperity of the wicked to an unwavering conviction in God's ultimate goodness and justice. This verse powerfully asserts that true flourishing and enduring peace are found not in worldly success but in intimate communion with God, establishing a foundation of trust that naturally overflows into a passionate desire to proclaim His magnificent works to the world.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Psalm 73 stands as the first psalm in Book III of the Psalter (Psalms 73-89), attributed to Asaph, a prominent Levitical choirmaster. The psalm unfolds as a deeply personal confession, beginning with Asaph's raw struggle against envy and doubt as he observed the apparent ease and prosperity of the wicked, while he, a righteous man, experienced affliction. His faith was severely tested, and he confesses that his "feet were almost gone" as described in [Psalms 73:2](/psalms/73-2 "Psalm 73:2 - Asaph's Near Fall"). The turning point occurs when he "went into the sanctuary of God" as detailed in [Psalms 73:17](/psalms/73-17 "Psalm 73:17 - Asaph's Understanding in the Sanctuary"), where he gained a divine perspective on the ultimate, perilous end of the wicked. This realization reorients his entire worldview, leading to a renewed sense of God's presence and purpose, culminating in the triumphant affirmation of verse 28.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Asaph, as a Levitical musician, was intimately involved in the worship life of ancient Israel, likely serving in the Temple in Jerusalem. The "sanctuary of God" mentioned in [Psalms 73:17](/psalms/73-17 "Psalm 73:17 - Asaph's Turning Point") points to this sacred space as the focal point for divine encounter and revelation. In ancient Israelite society, prosperity was often seen as a sign of God's blessing, and suffering as a sign of His displeasure, creating a theological dilemma for those who observed the wicked flourishing. Psalm 73, therefore, engages with a core tension within Israelite wisdom tradition, grappling with the problem of evil and divine justice. The act of "drawing near to God" in this context carried significant cultural weight, echoing the priestly access to God's presence in the Tabernacle and Temple, symbolizing intimate fellowship and worship.
* **Key Themes:** Psalm 73 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the Psalter and broader biblical narrative. It powerfully illustrates the **struggle of faith** in the face of apparent injustice, demonstrating that even devout believers wrestle with difficult theological questions. The psalm highlights the **sovereignty of God** and His ultimate justice, revealing that worldly success is fleeting and God's judgment is certain, as articulated in [Psalms 73:18-20](/psalms/73-18 "Psalm 73:18-20 - The Destiny of the Wicked"). Central to the psalm is the theme of the **supreme good of closeness to God**, emphasizing that true blessedness and satisfaction are found not in external circumstances but in an intimate, personal relationship with the divine. This profound relational truth is foundational to the entire book of Psalms, which consistently calls believers to seek God's presence and trust in His unfailing character, as seen in passages like [Psalms 16:11](/psalms/16-11 "Psalm 16:11 - Fullness of Joy in God's Presence") and the longing expressed in [Psalms 42:1-2](/psalms/42-1 "Psalm 42:1-2 - Longing for God").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Good (Hebrew, _ṭôwb_):** This word signifies not merely a moral quality but that which is beneficial, pleasant, prosperous, and ultimately, truly excellent or right. In this context, Asaph declares that drawing near to God is the ultimate and highest good, superior to any perceived good found in worldly prosperity. It speaks to the intrinsic value and profound benefit of divine intimacy, encompassing well-being, favor, and prosperity in the truest sense.
* **Draw near (Hebrew, _qᵉrâbâh_):** While the KJV translates this as a verb "draw near," the underlying Hebrew term (H7132) is a noun meaning "approach" or "approaching." This implies more than just physical proximity; it denotes an intentional and active movement towards intimacy, fellowship, and worship. It carries connotations of presenting oneself before God, as a priest might approach the altar, or a worshiper entering the sanctuary. It signifies a spiritual inclination, devotion, and a desire for deep communion with the divine presence.
* **Trust (Hebrew, _machăçeh_):** This term, derived from a root meaning "to seek refuge," signifies a shelter or a place of refuge. By extension, it conveys the idea of confidence, hope, and reliance. When Asaph declares he has "put my trust," he is expressing a deliberate act of finding his security, safety, and unwavering confidence in the Lord GOD. It is a deep-seated reliance that serves as an anchor for the soul, particularly in times of uncertainty or distress.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But [it is] good for me to draw near to God":** This clause marks a decisive turning point, contrasting sharply with Asaph's previous state of doubt and envy. The "good" he now identifies is not external wealth or ease, but the profound spiritual benefit and ultimate well-being derived from intimate communion with God. It signifies a reorientation of his values, recognizing that true flourishing is found in relationship with the divine rather than in worldly success or the fleeting prosperity of the wicked.
* **"I have put my trust in the Lord GOD,"** This declaration reveals the foundation of Asaph's newfound stability. His trust is not a fleeting emotion but a deliberate act of reliance and confidence placed in the sovereign (ʼĂdônây, H136) and covenant-keeping God (Yᵉhôvih, H3069). This trust is the direct result of his understanding gained in the sanctuary, where he perceived God's ultimate control and justice, providing an unshakeable anchor for his soul amidst life's uncertainties and the apparent inequities of the world.
* **"that I may declare all thy works."** This final clause expresses the ultimate purpose and natural outflow of drawing near to God and trusting Him. The personal experience of God's goodness and faithfulness transforms into a compelling desire to bear witness to His mighty deeds, His justice, and His redemptive acts. It moves beyond private devotion to public proclamation, making God's character and actions known to others, thus fulfilling a missional imperative born from personal encounter.

#### Literary Devices
Psalm 73:28 powerfully employs several literary devices. The most prominent is **Contrast**, as the verse stands in stark opposition to Asaph's initial despair and envy described earlier in the psalm, highlighting his dramatic shift in perspective from worldly focus to divine intimacy. It functions as a **Declaration** or **Confession**, a definitive statement of newfound faith and purpose after a period of intense spiritual struggle. The phrase "draw near to God" can be seen as **Imagery** or a **Metaphor** for intimate spiritual communion, drawing upon the physical act of approaching a sacred space, particularly the sanctuary. Finally, the phrase "that I may declare all thy works" functions as a **Purpose Clause**, revealing the ultimate aim and natural consequence of his renewed relationship with God, transforming personal experience into public testimony and worship.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Psalm 73:28 encapsulates a core theological truth: the ultimate good for humanity is found in a relationship with God. It challenges the common human tendency to measure success and well-being by external metrics like wealth, power, or ease, redirecting focus to the profound spiritual richness of divine intimacy. This verse underscores the importance of **trust** in God's character and sovereignty, especially when His ways seem inscrutable or when injustice appears to prevail. Asaph's journey demonstrates that true understanding and peace come through seeking God's perspective, often found in the context of worship and spiritual reflection. The natural outflow of such intimacy and trust is a transformed life that desires to **proclaim** God's goodness and works, turning personal encounter into public witness. This theme of declaring God's works links the psalmist's experience to the broader biblical mandate for God's people to be a light to the nations, testifying to His character and deeds.

* [James 4:8](/james/4-8 "James 4:8 - Draw Near to God and He Will Draw Near to You")
* [Psalm 9:1](/psalms/9-1 "Psalm 9:1 - I Will Give Thanks to the LORD with All My Heart")
* [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5-6 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the LORD with All Your Heart")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Psalm 73:28 offers a timeless blueprint for navigating the complexities of faith in a world often marked by apparent injustice and the prosperity of the wicked. In an age that frequently measures success by material accumulation, social status, or personal comfort, this verse serves as a powerful counter-cultural declaration: our greatest good, our deepest joy, and our most enduring peace are found exclusively in a vibrant, intimate relationship with God. When doubts inevitably arise, or when the seeming ease of those who disregard God tempts us to question His justice, our anchor remains the intentional act of drawing near to Him. This intimacy cultivates a profound trust in His character, His sovereignty, and His ultimate plan, enabling us to stand firm. Ultimately, our personal experience of God's goodness and faithfulness should compel us to move beyond private devotion, inspiring us to declare His marvelous works and bear witness to His transformative power and unwavering justice in a world desperately searching for true meaning and hope.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does "drawing near to God" practically look like in your daily life, beyond formal worship?**
* **How does Asaph's journey in Psalm 73 resonate with your own struggles with doubt or envy concerning the prosperity of others?**
* **In what specific areas of your life do you need to deepen your trust in the "Lord GOD," particularly when circumstances seem unjust?**
* **What are "all thy works" that God has done in your life, and how can you more intentionally "declare" them to others?**
* **How might a renewed focus on drawing near to God change your perspective on success and fulfillment?**

### FAQ
**What does it mean to "draw near to God" in a practical sense, beyond just going to church?**

Answer: To "draw near to God" (Hebrew: _qᵉrâbâh_, "approach") signifies an active, intentional pursuit of intimacy and communion with Him. Practically, this involves consistent spiritual disciplines such as prayer, where you communicate openly and honestly with God; meditating on His Word, allowing it to shape your thoughts and actions; worship, both individually and corporately, expressing adoration and gratitude; and obedience to His commands, which demonstrates love and trust. It also means cultivating an awareness of His presence throughout your day, seeking His guidance in decisions, and relying on Him in all circumstances. It's about fostering a living, dynamic relationship, not just fulfilling religious duties, much like the intimacy described in [James 4:8](/james/4-8 "James 4:8 - Draw Near to God and He Will Draw Near to You").

**How does Psalm 73 help us when we struggle with the apparent injustice of the wicked prospering while the righteous suffer?**

Answer: Psalm 73, and specifically verse 28, provides a crucial framework for navigating this common struggle. Asaph's honest confession of his envy and near-fall (see [Psalms 73:2-3](/psalms/73-2-3 "Psalm 73:2-3 - Asaph's Feet Almost Slipped")) validates the human experience of questioning God's justice. The turning point, however, is his entry into "the sanctuary of God" (as found in [Psalms 73:17](/psalms/73-17 "Psalm 73:17 - Asaph's Understanding in the Sanctuary")), symbolizing a shift to a divine perspective. There, he understood the ultimate, perilous end of the wicked (as revealed in [Psalms 73:18-20](/psalms/73-18-20 "Psalm 73:18-20 - The Destiny of the Wicked")) and the enduring blessedness of God's presence with the righteous (as articulated in [Psalms 73:23-26](/psalms/73-23-26 "Psalm 73:23-26 - God is My Strength and Portion")). The psalm teaches us that true justice is not always immediate or visible in this life, but God's ultimate control and righteous judgment are certain. Our good is not found in external circumstances but in our relationship with God, regardless of the world's apparent inequities.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Psalms 73:28 finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who is the very means by which humanity can truly "draw near to God." Before Christ, access to God's intimate presence was often restricted, symbolized by the veil in the Temple. However, through Christ's perfect life, atoning death, and glorious resurrection, the way to God has been fully opened. He is the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), the [one mediator between God and mankind](/1_timothy/2-5 "1 Timothy 2:5 - One Mediator between God and Man"), and the [way, the truth, and the life](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life") by whom we come to the Father. Our trust is now placed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who is God incarnate, the very "Lord GOD" in human flesh, deserving of all our faith and allegiance as [every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord](/philippians/2-10-11 "Philippians 2:10-11 - Confession of Jesus as Lord"). Furthermore, the desire to "declare all thy works" is perfectly realized in the Great Commission, where believers are empowered by the Holy Spirit to proclaim the Gospel—the ultimate work of God in salvation—to all nations, bearing witness to the redemptive power of Christ's life, death, and resurrection, as commanded in [Acts 1:8](/acts/1-8 "Acts 1:8 - Power to Witness"). Thus, Jesus is not only the object of our drawing near and our trust but also the central subject of the works we are called to declare.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Psalms 40:5

Many, O LORD my God, [are] thy wonderful works [which] thou hast done, and thy thoughts [which are] to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: [if] I would declare and speak [of them], they are more than can be numbered.

James 4:8

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse [your] hands, [ye] sinners; and purify [your] hearts, [ye] double minded.

Hebrews 10:19

¶ Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,

Hebrews 10:22

Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.

Lamentations 3:25

The LORD [is] good unto them that wait for him, to the soul [that] seeketh him.

Lamentations 3:26

[It is] good that [a man] should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD.

Psalms 65:4

Blessed [is the man whom] thou choosest, and causest to approach [unto thee, that] he may dwell in thy courts: we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, [even] of thy holy temple.