This was an interesting psalm, not one of praise or lament like others we have encountered. This one was more full of teaching and information. Much of this psalm focuses on the rich and how they “can’t take it with them.” We have often heard that said, did you know it was Biblical? We should take heed to these words and not trouble ourselves with wanting more stuff.
There is a theme of redemption woven in as well that really gave me pause. To me, these words seem prophetic about the saving grace and loving sacrifice we have in Jesus. This psalm was written long before Jesus appears on earth, yet the hope was brewing then that God would redeem. There had to be a different way of thinking about death, I would think. People thought they could be immortal if they had enough. Today, people strive for riches out of selfish gain and a desperate search for happiness. It’s fleeting however (the happiness) because true joy is only found in the assurance of eternal life.
How about you – do you look to your possessions or your busy-ness to bring you happiness and fulfillment? What really jazzes you, is it buying a new car, getting a promotion at work, leaving for a long vacation? Those are all marvelous things, but we cannot take them with us. I would suggest that we should get just as jazzed by having our quiet time with God and waiting expectantly for his answer to our prayers. He is the one in whom we should place our trust and focus.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for this lesson today reminding me to live within my means and to be satisfied with that. Help me to be a good steward with what you have given me. I am yours. Use me today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
