Psalm 49

This is the last in this series of Psalms written by the sons of Korah (42-49).  This one is a clear call to faith, courageous faith in the face of oppression from the rich and powerful.  James 5:1-6 might provide an excellent backdrop for the human experience behind this Psalm.  James refers to the oppressive and powerful wealthy people in the latter days.  So here, in a Psalm addressed to the rich and poor alike (v2) we are reminded of the fact that money has limits in its ability to satisfy the soul whereas God has none.  The ultimate limit is death itself.  Money is worthless after death.  But God will redeem the saint from the power of the grave.

·        V1-4: The Psalm is addressed to all the inhabitants of the world.  The poor need to hear this so as not to fear what is not of ultimate power.  The rich need to hear this so as not to set their hope on this foolishness.  So whoever I am, whoever you are, this is for each of us!

·        V5: Here is the question: Why should I fear in the days of evil? 

·        V6-14: As is typically the case it is those who trust in their wealth (v6) who tend to oppress others.  But in fact their wealth is insufficient as ransom (the price of redemption).  The price is costly, especially since an eternal price is demanded.  The rich man’s money fails him at death.  Men sometimes live and think like they were going to live forever.  They do all they can to have a legacy, a lasting influence (v11); but it is useless (v12) and foolish (v13).  They will rot in the grave!

·        V15: In one verse we are given the “word of faith”.  The one who trusts in God will be received by Him upon death.  The reason is because God Himself will redeem the soul.  And this He has done through His Son in His death on the cross.  There His precious blood was shed, the ransom price for sinners (1 Peter 1:17-21).

·        V16-20: Thus it is affirmed: do not be afraid!

The Psalm makes a very clear distinction between those whose Redeemer is God Himself and those whose redeemer is their money.  The latter is no different than an animal (v12,20).  He is consumed by the grave.  But the former has a true, viable hope.  Where lies your hope when your body lies in the grave?