What is the meaning of Psalm 49:17? For when he dies Death is the unavoidable appointment every person keeps. Scripture speaks plainly that life’s earthly chapter closes for all, regardless of status. • Hebrews 9:27 reminds us, “Just as people are appointed to die once, and after that to face judgment.” • Psalm 90:10 notes that even the strongest among us soon “fly away.” • Ecclesiastes 3:20 echoes, “All come from dust, and all return to dust.” The psalmist sets the stage: wealth may draw admiration now, but it cannot postpone the moment God has set for every life to end. He will carry nothing away The verse shifts from the certainty of death to the certainty of leaving everything behind. • 1 Timothy 6:7 says, “For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.” • Job 1:21 declares, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart.” • Proverbs 11:4 warns, “Riches are worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.” These passages underscore that material possessions are temporary stewardship, not permanent property. They can enhance life’s comfort, but they cannot be packed for the next world. His abundance will not follow him down The psalmist drives the lesson home: earthly wealth has no passport to eternity. • Luke 12:20 records God’s verdict on the rich fool: “This very night your life will be required of you. Then who will own what you have accumulated?” • Matthew 6:19-20 contrasts fleeting earthly treasure with lasting heavenly treasure, urging us to transfer our focus upward. • Psalm 39:6 observes the futility of amassing fortunes “not knowing who will inherit them.” Whatever follows a person into the grave is not gold, but the state of his soul. Eternal riches—faith in Christ, obedience, generosity—are the only wealth that reaches beyond death. summary Psalm 49:17 cuts through the illusion that wealth secures lasting significance. Death is certain, possessions stay behind, and earthly abundance cannot descend with us. The only treasure that matters is what is invested in God’s eternal kingdom through trust in Christ and a life lived for His glory. |
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