What does Psalm 49:6 mean?

Wealth tempts us to think we don't need God or His mercy (Matthew 19:23–24). Those who defy God's will and become rich as a result are especially prone to believing they won't suffer consequences (Psalm 49:5). They might even brag about their illicit gains. A rich man—especially one with no respect for God—can believe money is the solution to all problems. Scripture reminds us, however, that earthly wealth cannot save one's soul (Proverbs 11:4).

Being rich is not a sin, itself. What's immoral is trusting in money rather than God or using wealth and power to abuse those with less resources. The apostle Paul called on Timothy to teach rich Christians not to be arrogant (1 Timothy 6:17). The writer of Proverbs counsels: "Do not toil to acquire wealth; be discerning enough to desist. When your eyes light on it, it is gone, for suddenly it sprouts wings, flying like an eagle toward heaven" (Proverbs 23:4–5).

Jesus described the sad consequences of a rich man's overconfidence in wealth. After an abundant harvest, the man in Jesus' parable assumed he could live as he pleased without any worries (Luke 12:19). His boast was foolish, and he deceived himself. That night God parted him from his life, and his wealth, and the rich man faced God's judgment (Luke 12:20).