What does "they will perish" in Psalm 102:26 teach about worldly things? Setting the Verse in Context Psalm 102 moves from the raw cry of an afflicted sufferer (vv.1-11) to a soaring confession of God’s unchanging character (vv.12-28). Verse 25 looks back to creation: “Of old You laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands”. Verse 26 then draws the contrast: “They will perish, but You remain; they will all wear out like a garment. Like clothing You will change them, and they will be passed on.” Here “they” points to the entire material creation—the heavens, the earth, everything visible and tangible. Examining “They Will Perish” • Perish = come to an end, cease to exist in their present form. • Wear out = gradual decay leading to ultimate disposal. • Change them = God will actively replace the current order, not merely patch it up. The verse sets up a stark, literal contrast: the created order is temporary, the Creator is eternal. What This Teaches About Worldly Things • Temporary by design – Every physical thing carries an expiration date. • Subject to decay – Like clothing frays and fades, worldly structures, cultures, and possessions deteriorate. • Dependent, not self-sustaining – Creation owes its existence and its end to God’s sovereign will. • Unfit for ultimate security – Because it will perish, the material world cannot bear the weight of our hopes. • Meant to point beyond itself – Its passing nature highlights the permanence of God and His promises. Supporting Scriptures • Isaiah 51:6 — “Lift up your eyes to the heavens, and look at the earth beneath; for the heavens will vanish like smoke, the earth will wear out like a garment...” • 2 Peter 3:10-13 — “The heavens will disappear with a roar... the elements will be dissolved by fire... we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.” • Hebrews 1:10-12 quotes Psalm 102 directly, applying it to Christ, underscoring His unchanging deity. • Matthew 6:19-20 — “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth... but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” • 1 John 2:17 — “The world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God remains forever.” Living in Light of Their Perishability • Hold possessions loosely; use them as tools, not treasures. • Invest energy and resources in eternal pursuits—gospel proclamation, discipleship, acts of mercy done in Christ’s name. • Redirect anxiety; if the world is destined to perish, resting in the One who “remains” brings real peace. • Cultivate worship that centers on the Creator rather than creation. • Set hope on the promised “new heavens and new earth,” anchoring confidence in God’s unchanging character. |
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