Chapter Summary

The despicable character of those who trust in their wealth.

Discussion Questions for Psalms, Chapter 49

1. How does this Psalm highlight that godly wisdom is for all people? What does this teach us about God’s heart?
2. Psalm 49:3, My mouth shall speak wisdom; the meditation of my heart shall be understanding." (ESV) How does this Psalm serve as a guide to discern the difference between godly wisdom and worldly rightness?
3. Psalm 49:4, "I will incline my ear to a proverb; I will solve my riddle to the music of the lyre." (ESV) What did it mean for one to incline their ear to a proverb? What did a proverb represent at that time? What would be the equivalent of inclining to a proverb today?
4. Psalm 49:5, "Why should I fear in times of trouble, when the iniquity of those who cheat me surrounds me." (ESV) What is it like seeing the Psalmist question his fear? What is the heart posture behind this question? When you find yourself in times of fear, do you ever pause to ask yourself why you are afraid?
5. What reasons do you speak over yourself to not be afraid? What promises in Scripture do you recall that bring you comfort?
6. How do verses 10-11 capture the morality of man? What message does this speak to what we prioritize in life?
7. Psalm 49:15, "But God will ransom my soul from the power of Sheol, for he will receive me. Selah" (ESV) How does this verse expand our understanding of Salvation through God?
8. What do verses 16-17 teach us about life after death? How does this help us appreciate Christ’s message to "lay up treasures in heaven"? (Matthew 6:19-21,ESV)
9. At first glance one might think this Psalm is about money, but when considering Scripture as a whole we see it speaks both on working hard for your sum and calls us to be generous. How can taking a look at the whole of God’s Word help us understand the true heart and theme of this specific Psalm?
10. Psalm 49:20, "Man in his pomp yet without understanding is like the beasts that perish." (ESV) What is a "man in his pomp"? What does this description teach us about foolishness? What would be the opposite of this description?

Key Words/Phrase

The rich, v. 6.

Characters

God, Psalmist.

Strong Verse(s)

15, 16, 17.