The Threat of Materialism
Daily Old Testament Reading: Psalm 44-45, 49
Daily Focus Passage: Psalm 49
We all like “stuff.” We all have items, hobbies, or things we want to gather or purchase. We find joy and excitement in these things and often elevate their value. In Psalm 49, David addresses the threat of materialism as he addresses the wealthy who seek to find their value and identity in their wealth. He notes the dangers of materialism here and now and the eternal impact. As we engage Psalm 49, may we identify the threats of materialism and seek to find our purpose and identity in the redemption that comes from the Lord through faith in Jesus Christ.
MATERIALISM PROVIDES A MOMENTARY, EMPTY IDENTITY
David notes that those who depend on the material of this work rest on a foundation for life that exists only at the moment. He announces their wealth and material will pass or be handed to their offspring. Ultimately, gathering stuff is fleeting because it cannot go with someone when they die. As a result, materialism provides an empty identity because the value of one’s life exists in the fleeting and temporary. Materialism tempts us to become consumed with the moment and forget where genuine identity is found.
MATERIALISM LEADS US ASTRAY FROM THE LORD AND TOWARD DESTRUCTION
David notes that those who rest on the collection of stuff and wealth make their permanent home in grace and perish like animals. This destination occurs because one lacks a relationship with the Lord. David acknowledges the threat of materialism to lead one like a sheep away from the shepherd and toward eternal death. The imagery makes us analyze our lives to identify who we hold as our shepherd, the Lord, or the things of this world.
MATERIALISM CAN NOT REDEEM US OR PROVIDE VALUE FOR US
David declares that the things of this world cannot pay the debt owed to the Lord because of sin. Therefore, one cannot purchase redemption or buy entrance into heaven. Materialism tempts us to boast about our temporary wealth and believe that his wealth earns us the favor of the Lord. This flawed mentality occurs as we begin to elevate stuff and ignore the holiness and glory of the Lord. When materialism impacts our life, we attempt to chase after it like an idol that we elevate to god status.
TRUE REDEMPTION, IDENTITY, AND BELONGING OCCUR IN CHRIST
The threat of materialism is overcome only in a relationship with Christ. We can have genuine life and forgiveness when we find redemption in Christ. We come to the place where we establish a true identity, not in ourselves of the things of this world, but we find our purpose in Christ. This happens because we understand that he alone fills what we long for. David glorifies the Lord for his goodness and greatness because he recognizes the danger of materialism.
Where are you finding your purpose and identity in life? Is it the stuff you own or the job you hold? Are you finding your genuine identity in Christ? The only place to find true purpose and lasting identity is in Christ.
