John Stanko

"Why should I fear when evil days come, when wicked deceivers surround me—those who trust in their wealth and boast of their great riches? For all can see that the wise die, that the foolish and the senseless also perish, leaving their wealth to others. Their tombs will remain their houses forever, their dwellings for endless generations, though they had named lands after themselves" - Psalm 49:5-6, 10-11.

The psalmists were all excellent writers, inspired by the Spirit of God to pen words that were poignant, picturesque, and profound. Today's verses paint a picture of the wealthy who put their trust in their riches, only to see death like everyone else, their money, property, and possessions serving no purpose as their empty, worthless legacy is buried with them in their graves. On the other hand, the righteous have nothing to fear, even though the rich throw their weight around trying to intimidate others. Proverbs 13:22 states, "A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous." How do you define a successful life? What inheritance and legacy are you leaving for your children and grandchildren, nieces and nephews? Is it only land, stocks, and money, or is it also a righteous life well-lived, a life that cared for the poor and downtrodden, that invested money and time in God's kingdom work? What do you need to do so that you will receive the endorsement from God that everyone should want to hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant!"?

Today's reading - Psalms 46-50