Psalm 49

 Overview

(NET)  Psalm 49. In this so-called wisdom psalm (see v. 3) the psalmist states that he will not fear the rich enemies who threaten him, for despite their wealth, they are mere men who will die like everyone else. The psalmist is confident the Lord will vindicate the godly and protect them from the attacks of their oppressors.

(EBC)The psalm is an encouragement to the godly who are haunted by the power and influence of the rich. The problem of the prosperity of the wicked (cf. Ps 73) is difficult, but the psalmist has given us a ray of light as to the final resolution.

Observations:

v.1-4 this is the psalmist about wisdom of riches

v.5-6 the wealthy men were sinful, boastful, deceptive and threatening the psalmist

v.7-13 the truth about riches: they cannot rescue life. No need to follow them.

v.14-15 Even the godly will also die, they will rule over the wealthy. God will postpone the death of the psalmist.

    v.15 But God will rescue my life from the power of Sheol; 

    certainly he will pull me to safety.

(NET) According to some, the psalmist here anticipates the resurrection (or at least an afterlife in God’s presence). But it is more likely that the psalmist here expresses his hope that God will rescue him from premature death at the hands of the rich oppressors denounced in the psalm. The psalmist is well aware that all (the wise and foolish) die (see vv. 7–12), but he is confident God will lead him safely through the present “times of trouble” (v. 5) and sweep the wicked away to their final destiny.

v.16-20 Therefore, do not be afraid of the evil rich men because they will die. They do not understand.

Reflections: 

(1) No need to be afraid of people. No matter how wealthy and powerful they are. They can boast all about it.  They can even be deceptive and threatening you. When you see their destiny and your destiny you will be confident because God is the One in control of the destiny. He is behind you when your lives reflect him or you are godly. Rather than  bothering by the evil deeds of the rich, focus yourself in godly living. Because that is what  counts at the end of the day.

(2) It will be foolish to focus on things on earth, especially focus on wealth and riches. They will not last. We cannot bring them with us when we die. The wealthy persons may boast about their luxurious lifestyle. Look at their destiny. No need to admire them. 

Audrey