First, those who trust in their wealth (1-14). This is a wisdom psalm. The psalmist considers the fact that the rich and the poor alike all die someday. What good is it to boast in riches when one's wealth can't buy them salvation or eternal life? No money can buy that for us. Jesus also talked about this (Mk 8:36). Rich fools who have no investment in God are like animals that perish. Those who trust in themselves are like sheep with death as their shepherd. They will decay, far from their princely mansions.

Second, God will redeem me (15-20). Wise people have faith and hope in God. God will redeem them from death and take them to himself. No one can take worldly wealth with them when they die. Only God can redeem us from the grave and bring us to the light of life. People with wealth but no understanding are like perishing animals. To have understanding and wisdom is to live with faith and hope and life-investment in God.


Application: Lord God, I recognize it is foolish to live for money or things or worldly pleasures, which all perish. Only you give eternal life. Thank you for giving us hope and salvation through Jesus Christ our Lord.
One Word: God will redeem me from death