1Truly God is good to Israel, to those whose hearts are pure. 2But as for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well almost slipped. 3For I envied the arrogant, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. 4For they seem to enjoy health, remain strong and have no pangs until their death. 5They appear to not have trouble or plagues like other men. 6Therefore, pride encompasses them like a chain; but violence covers them like a garment. 7Their eyes stand out with fatness; they have more than any heart could desire. 8They are corrupt and arrogant. maliciously threatening oppression. 9They speak even against the heavens, and flaunt their speech throughout the earth. 10Therefore His people return here, and waters of a full cup are wrung out to them. 11And they say, “How would God know? And does the Most High Know anything?” 12Behold, this is what the ungodly are like, they seem to live at ease, and increase in wealth. 13Verily, in vain I have kept my heart pure, and my hands free from guilt, 14For all the day long I have trouble, and am punished every morning.

15If I had said, “I will talk this way”; behold, I would have betrayed this generation of Your children. 16When I tried to understand this (why the wicked prosper), it was too painful for me; 17Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I understood their end. 18Surely, You set them in slippery places; and send them over the cliff to destruction. 19How suddenly are they brought to desolation, as in a moment! They are utterly consumed with terrors. 20As when awakening from dream; so their despised memory, O LORD, is erased. 21Thus my soul was grieved, and my spirit embittered. 22How foolish I was, like an ignorant beast before You.

23Nevertheless, I remain constantly with You; You have held me by my right hand. 24You shall guide me with Your counsel, and afterward You will receive me to glory. 25Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon earth that I desire beside You. 26My flesh and my heart may fail; but God remains the strength of my heart, and my portion forever. 27For, lo, those who are far from You shall perish; You have destroyed all them who are unfaithful and depart from You. 28But it is good for me to be near to You, God; I have put my faith and trust in the You, that I may proclaim all Your works.

Maschil of Asaph, upon the destruction of the city and temple.