Psalm 49
(A psalm for the people of Korah)
Don't Depend on Wealth

Everyone on this earth, now listen to what I say! Listen, no matter who you are, rich or poor. I speak words of wisdom, and my thoughts make sense. I have in mind a mystery that I will explain while playing my harp.

Why should I be afraid in times of trouble, when I am surrounded by vicious enemies? They trust in their riches and brag about all of their wealth. You cannot buy back your life or pay off God! It costs far too much to buy back your life. You can never pay God enough to stay alive forever and safe from death.

We see that wise people die, and so do stupid fools. Then their money is left for someone else. The grave will be their home forever and ever, although they once had land of their own. Our human glory disappears, and, like animals, we die.

Here is what happens to fools and to those who trust the words of fools: They are like sheep with death as their shepherd, leading them to the grave. In the morning God's people will walk all over them, as their bodies lie rotting in their home, the grave. But God will rescue me from the power of death.

Don't let it bother you when others get rich and live in luxury. Soon they will die and all of their wealth will be left behind.

We humans are praised when we do well, and all of us are glad to be alive. But we each will go down to our ancestors, never again to see the light of day. Our human glory disappears, and, like animals, we die.

Proverbs 23:17-18
-14-

Don't be jealous of sinners, but always honor the LORD. Then you will truly have hope for the future.

James 3:13-18
Wisdom from Above

Are any of you wise or sensible? Then show it by living right and by being humble and wise in everything you do. But if your heart is full of bitter jealousy and selfishness, don't brag or lie to cover up the truth. That kind of wisdom doesn't come from above. It is earthly and selfish and comes from the devil himself. Whenever people are jealous or selfish, they cause trouble and do all sorts of cruel things. But the wisdom that comes from above leads us to be pure, friendly, gentle, sensible, kind, helpful, genuine, and sincere. When peacemakers plant seeds of peace, they will harvest justice.