Wealth Without Understanding

Psalm 49:16-20 (NIV) 

Do not be overawed when others grow rich,
   when the splendor of their houses increases;
for they will take nothing with them when they die,
   their splendor will not descend with them.
Though while they live they count themselves blessed—
   and people praise you when you prosper—
they will join those who have gone before them,
   who will never again see the light of life.

People who have wealth but lack understanding
   are like the beasts that perish.


Reflection

Voltaire, a wealthy French writer, philosopher, and self-proclaimed atheist, rejected Christianity and the Bible as ancient relics. He was aggressive in his attack against Christianity. However, as he lay in his death bed, he pleaded in desperation for a longer life. “I am abandoned by God and man. I will give you half of what I am worth if you will give me six months of life. Then I shall go to hell, and you will go with me, oh, Christ, oh, Jesus Christ!” 

It is believed his attending nurse, horrified, stated, “For all the wealth in Europe, I would not see another atheist die.”

Do you see? Voltaire’s wealth, successes, and philosophies could not save him. He did not understand God’s economy. His earthly wealth did not follow him to the grave. Money cannot buy time and eternity. Honor in this world will not be conveyed to the next. We are to be kingdom-minded and find spiritual prosperity. 

This psalm speaks to us today, in our culture of obsession with celebrity and fame. Boasters are pleased with themselves, and others often praise them. This is a tragic thought process. When life is over, everyone looks the same, no matter the grave. We take nothing with us.

Sometimes we become jealous of the prosperity of others, or we think the buffoons of this world won’t get what’s coming to them. These are unfounded beliefs. Our days are short-lived, and we must remember the assurance of eternal victory and the futility of worldliness. We need to keep our minds on God, rather than earthly wealth. Material possessions and self-gratification slowly cover us in a coat of filth. Eternal beauty and success can only come from the Lord. He is our redeemer! 

This temporary world cannot redeem you. If you boast in the riches of this world, this world will be the best you ever get. If you are righteous and upright, this world is the worst you will suffer. Be radically generous, keep your eyes on eternity, and store your treasures in heaven. 


Action Steps

1. How does this psalm point us to Jesus?
2. Contemplate and self-reflect, then journal your thoughts. Do you despair when your bank accounts or stock portfolios decline?
3.  Read John 14:2 (NIV). How does this verse relate to Psalm 49 and today’s reflection?

My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going        there to prepare a place for you?


Prayer
  
Heavenly Father, remove the intrusive thoughts I have about money and wealth. Keep me upright and humble. Give me the courage to be radical in my generosity. Help me to be heavenly minded and fix my eyes on eternity with You. Continue to guide me in storing up treasures in heaven.


_{Ince, Wyne. “Famous Last Words – From Voltaire ... And More.” www.linkedin.com, www.linkedin.com/pulse/famous-last-words-from-voltaire-more-wyne-ince.}