“They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches; none of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him. For the redemption of the soul is precious, and it ceaseth forever.”
(Psalm 49:6-8)

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It is so easy to trust in material wealth. It appears to give us security and to some, it appears to be a source of continual pleasure and satisfaction. But the Lord gives us warning here not to trust in riches.

Why not?

There are many reasons. Namely, riches do not provide ultimate satisfaction and contentment. We all have undoubtedly seen in ourselves that almost insatiable desire for more. The more we have, the more we want. Wealth does not provide true satisfaction. But the reason given in these verses points out something else wealth cannot do.

It cannot redeem our souls!

No matter how much people may have in this world’s goods, they still lie powerless and penniless in the realm of redeeming their soul. To be redeemed and accepted before the Holy God of heaven and earth is the most valuable and costly thing imaginable. This redemption does not come about by any financial assets, but only by the precious blood of Jesus Christ (I Peter 1:18-19).

So, if you have much wealth, thank God for it and use it in a way that pleases God, all the while knowing what is truly valuable in your life. If you have little or nothing, remember that the riches you have in Christ are far superior to what you may lack in this world.

By Timothy Guess