Scripture:
Psalm 49:7-9 – Truly no man can ransom another, or give to God the price of his life, for the ransom of their life is costly and can never suffice, that he should live on forever and never see the pit.
Observation:
The Psalmist wants to provide wisdom to all who will listen about those who have a rich lifestyle. We should meditate on God’s word for understanding and to have it in our heart. There is no reason to fear individuals who have amassed wealth on earth and want to let you know that. They can’t take their wealth with them and more importantly no one man can pay the cost to ransom his life.
Application:
We are all mortal and will face the same inevitability of death one day. While people with a lavish lifestyle may seem like they have everything, without a savior they have nothing. I need to not fear or be jealous of someone who has accumulated material gain as they can’t take their wealth with them and it is not their greatest need. Rather I should be burdened for their soul as they are lost like all others who do not know/believe the gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus plus nothing equals everything. I must recognize my sin and understand that only Jesus has paid the high cost to redeem our souls to an eternity with the Father in full.
Prayer:
Father,
Thank you for the truth in your word and your soverign plan to save me. Help me to share your love and the high price you paid for me on the cross. Let me be burdened for the many in our culture who are lost and place wealth above a relationship with you.