Psalm 49 reminds the reader of some of the shortcomings of relying on money more than the Lord:
- “They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches; 7 None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him:” Psalm 49:6-7
All the money in the world cannot buy salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9). We often assume that everyone knows this, but they do not. Money is the little “god” that so many worship, cherish, and on which they rely.
In the past, many have given fortunes and energy to build architecturally magnificent cathedrals or other “religious” endeavors. Their thinking was if they had built such an edifice or had done many good works that God would be impressed and let them into Heaven.
However, all the money given and good deeds committed cannot redeem one’s soul. Wealth cannot purchase one’s soul from the penalty for the sins they have committed. Salvation cannot be earned.
The only work that will redeem anyone is accepting what Jesus did for us when He died on the Cross. It is only His shed blood that will buy one out of the death sentence that is on all sinners. Money cannot buy an entrance into Heaven. Only Jesus can redeem a lost soul. - “(For the redemption of their soul is precious, and it ceaseth for ever:) 9 That he should still live for ever, and not see corruption.” Psalm 49:8-9
The most important act anyone can do while allowed to have breath on this Earth is to be saved from the penalty on sin. Being redeemed is more “precious” than anything one can gather on this Earth. The born-again soul will live forever with the Lord as it was bought (redeemed) back from the curse of sin. - “For he seeth that wise men die, likewise the fool and the brutish person perish, and leave their wealth to others. 11 Their inward thought is, that their houses shall continue for ever, and their dwelling places to all generations; they call their lands after their own names. 13 This their way is their folly: yet their posterity approve their sayings. Selah.” Psalm 49:10-13 Also: Psalm 49:17.
All, be they wise, foolish (Psalm 53:1), or rough and tough will not take any of their “things” to the next life. All the preciousness of what they gathered will soon be dispersed to others and their name will have little remembrance or value. They foolishly wasted their opportunity to invest their life with what will last eternally.
Be not impressed (Psalm 49:16-17) with the wealth so many spend their life acquiring. It will all be left behind. Be more concerned that you have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus.
“But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for he shall receive me. Selah.” Psalm 49:15
“No man can tell whether he is rich or poor by turning to his ledger. It is the heart that makes a man rich. He is rich according to what he is, not according to what he has.” — Beecher
I like the scripture about the poor beggar eating at the rich man’s table. The beggar knew God and the rich man did not. God could have blessed the beggar with more than enough but he was showing how you can still righteous with little means. I see so often people look to playing the lottery when God can do more than those scratch-off tickets. Fast money takes people away from God and they are exposed to people who only want them for their money. Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and the rest shall be added. The rest is what you need not always what you want. Some people can’t handle having too much money and material things.
Amen!