Psalm 49: 16-17

THE INWARD LIFE OF A STEWARD
Viewing & Handling Possessions

Do not be overawed when others grow rich, when the splendor of their houses increases; for they will take nothing with them when they die, their splendor will not descend with them.

Materialism is alive and well in America. Nothing makes a person more impressive to others than an abundance of riches. Psalm 49:16-17, however, offers us a sobering reminder of the folly of being wowed by wealth. It says, Do not be overawed when others grow rich, when the splendor of their houses increases; for they will take nothing with them when they die, their splendor will not descend with them (NIV). We all exit this life the same way we arrived — with nothing. No matter how much someone accumulates on earth, we all end up with the same balance sheet the day after we finish this life. How can you avoid this overly-impressed-with-wealth temptation? Focus your mind on living in eternity and not this present life. Think about it.