Psalm 49

 


Psalm 49 provides wisdom regarding material wealth in light of the eternal perspective.  This psalm is addressed to "all peoples ... both low and high, rich and poor."  No one escapes death, not even the rich who will be unable to take their wealth with them.  While no man is able to pay the priceless ransom for life, the psalmist is confident that God will redeem his soul. We now know that this has been fulfilled through Christ our Redeemer!


Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm:
  • Verses 1-4:
    • Why is a psalm teaching about material wealth applicable to ALL peoples, including me?
  • Verses 5-20:
    • What fears do I have related to earthly riches?
    • What can I learn from the wisdom provided in these verses on the biblical perspective of material wealth in light of eternity?
    • The psalmist was confident that God would ransom his soul from the power of the grave and will receive him eternally.  Now that we have an even clearer picture of resurrection to new life through Christ our Redeemer, how does this give us even more assurance?

If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video:
  • "God Will Ransom My Soul - Our Resurrection Song" (Psalm 49) by Karl Kohlhase:  Link


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