March 5, 2011

Psalm 49 (Click to see scripture)

Bible in One Year Passages:
Matthew 22:23-33, Romans 3:1-20, Numbers 9-10

Journal Entry

Scripture

Psalm 49:12-13 Man in his pomp will not remain; he is like the beasts that perish. This is the path of those who have foolish confidence;yet after them people approve of their boasts.

Observation

We are indoctrinated daily that beauty, wealth and power is the measure of success. Yet the splendor of man will not remain. Youth and beauty will pass. We are mortal. If this is all we seek, we are in denial and doomed to failure. The psalmist calls this "foolish confidence." Yet we know all too well that we idolize people in their pomp. Solomon in all his glorify declared, "Vanity, vanity, all is vanity." Perhaps it is because Satan pursued beauty and splendor that he tempts us with the same. Jesus chose a better way. When Jesus was tempted with material, glory and power, he declined it choosing instead the eternal relationship with God the Father.

Application

I want to see with my spiritual eyes and hear with my spiritual ears. I want to walk by faith so that I don't fall into the temptation of thinking that material and power defines me and my worth. My confidence must be in my heavenly Father. I will recognize my shortcomings but be filled with confidence knowing that God loves me and that He is in control.

Prayer

Father, help me to see things as you do. Let me not fall into the sin of pride. I praise you for every perfect gift comes from you. Whether I am strong or weak, wealthy or poor, young or old, I want my spirit to worship you in child-like faith. I want to fully live my life both physically and spiritually. Change me, I pray.

--Jason Kim