The Equality of the Grave! (Psalm 49:6-20)

From the Original Baptist Observer, October 2016 Issue

Cemeteries are a very interesting place to visit. As you look at the different grave markers, you can find some very interesting things. Dates reveal when the person was born, when they died, and how old they were. Names sometimes reveal the nationality of the person. The type of marker sometimes tells the type of religious background they had. The inscription can tell the attitude of some, whether they were funny or solemn. I am reminded of one such inscription. It went as follows: “Remember, friend, as you pass by. As you are, so once was I. As I am, you soon will be, so prepare for death and follow me.” That is so true. As we live and enjoy life, we do not want to think of death. We must, however, it is a reality. That is what Psalm 49:1-20 is talking about. Verses 1 and 2 show us that your estate in this life has no bearing on whether or not you die. “Hear this, all ye people; give ear, all ye inhabitants of the world: Both low and high, rich and poor, together.”

The reality of the grave in verse 10, says, “For he seeth that wise men die, likewise the fool and the brutish person perish, and leave their wealth to others.” Death is an appointment ALL will keep. (Hebrews 9:27) This is one appointment you will never be too late for, or too early for. God has control of this time. The world can solve the problems of cancer, aids, and other deadly diseases, but this will not stop man from dying. (Romans 5:12) We all have a “grave” waiting for us. It might take on different shapes and styles, but it is still a grave. (Matthew 23:27)

In verses 6 and 7, the Bible says, “They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches; None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him:” Mankind today thinks he can buy anything he or she wants and in many cases, this is true. Man can control every aspect of his life, and even to a certain extent, his salvation as far as accepting it or not. However, God is the only One that has control over death. (Revelation 1:18) You might say Satan can take life, but only if God allows it. Death teaches us how important life is.

Verse 15 says, “But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for he shall receive me.” To the saved, this means a new body. (Philippians 3:21) To the saved, it means a new place to dwell. (II Peter 3:13) To the saved, it means life. (John 5:24) To the faithful, it means reigning forever with Jesus. (Revelation 22:4-5) To the lost, those who have never trusted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, death means everlasting punishment in the Lake of Fire. (II Thessalonians 1:8-9)

Yes, death is an equal opportunity employer. No one is discriminated against. All have a choice of what is ahead in this thing called death, life everlasting or punishment everlasting. You have the choice. To members of the Lord’s, local, New Testament churches, faithfulness means more than convenient service. To the saved, Christ deserves more out of your life, after all, that’s why He saved you. To the lost, Jesus has the power to change anyone’s destiny before your death. You must choose!