Meditation Psalm 49

Why should I fear in times of trouble?
(Psalm 49:5 ESV)

The Sons of Korah ask this question in their Psalm. This is the same question I want to ask my own heart.

Why do I fear in times of trouble?
Why do I fear in times things don't go to my plan?
Why do I fear when ministry or my life seem to be struggling?

For I know these truths:
1
God will ransom my soul from the power of Sheol for he will receive me. Selah (Psalm 49:5, 15 ESV)
2
For God is the King of all the earth;
sing praises with a psalm!
(Psalm 47:7 ESV)
3
I receive God the creator of the universe and eternal king as my heavenly Father through faith in Jesus Christ!

Yet I also struggle with doubt. For it is easy to believe in times of abundance and when things go well. But like Job will I believe when I lose things that I enjoy and love? Like Paul will I believe in seasons when ministry is not fruitful?

This psalm hits at part of the idea when it speaks of others having wealth and what that says about them and God. I think his also speaks to the truth about God and our faith when we are in times of need or suffering:

Be not afraid when a man becomes rich,
when the glory of his house increases.
For when he dies he will carry nothing away;
his glory will not go down after him.
For though, while he lives, he counts himself blessed
—and though you get praise when you do well for yourself—
his soul will go to the generation of his fathers,
who will never again see light.
Man in his pomp yet without understanding is like the beasts that perish. (Psalm 49:16-20 ESV)

In particular this verse
—and though you get praise when you do well for yourself—
Speaks to me about my ministry. Because I am quick to place my identity in the success of my ministry and I also can become prideful and seek praise for my ministry. But ministry is about God's people and God's glory not mine.

Lord set my heart on you and your promises. I believe, but please help my unbelief. Grow my faith that no matter what comes I would hold true to you Lord! I want to have confidence in you alone and not in my abilities or my ministry or my strength. Help me to rejoice in you Lord at all times in all circumstances. Christ I want to rely on your strength!
Amen