People often get nervous being around wealthy or famous people. Our minds have been brainwashed thinking they are extra special. Instead of being intimidated or thinking that you don’t measure up, be concerned about their eternal welfare. It may appear they have it made in this life, but the afterlife is another story. Reality is not what it appears as you will learn in Psalm 49.
God desires that all people, whether rich or poor, to hear God’s wisdom, which provides understanding and insight on how to live skillfully in all areas of human experience (Ps. 49:1-4).
Don’t succumb to fear when life becomes difficult because of those trusting in their wealth or power. For example, some managers’ egos prevent them from serving their employees. They take the credit instead of helping others succeed. Sometimes church leaders lord it over the flock by being harsh instead of compassionate (1 Pet. 5:2-3). Remember that Jesus Christ is the true reality because He paid the price for your sins. Riches and power fade away, but His costly sacrificial death on the cross allowed you to have an eternal relationship with Him (Ps. 49:5-9).
Wise and rich people die like everyone else. They leave their wealth to others. Even famous people are forgotten after they die (Ps. 49:10-12).
Consider the legacy of the rich and famous who live without Christ. They will be consumed in hell apart from the dwelling place of God. People congratulate and praise their earthly success, but their ultimate destiny is tragic. Great glory may occur in this life, but after death, a fearful judgment awaits them. In contrast, believers can live confidently because God reverses the playing field. Believers will rule and God destroys the arrogant without Christ (Ps. 49:13-20).
Who do you know that fits the description of the person in this Psalm? Consider their ultimate destiny without Christ and pray for their salvation!
