Old Testament

Psalms 49:16

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

This verse encourages us not to feel fear or envy when we see others becoming wealthy or gaining status.

Author: David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
Written: Around 1000-500 BC
Genre: Poetry and worship
Original Audience: Worshipers of Israel

CBTClear Bible Translation

Do not be afraid when someone is made rich, when the glory of his house is increased;

KJVKing James Version

Be not thou afraid when one is made rich, when the glory of his house is increased;

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

This verse encourages us not to feel fear or envy when we see others becoming wealthy or gaining status. It reminds us that material wealth and external glory are temporary and do not define a person's true worth or happiness. Instead of focusing on what others have, we should remember that true security and value come from our relationship with God. Wealth can be fleeting, and those who rely solely on it may face challenges in the end. The psalmist is urging us to maintain our faith and trust in God, rather than being swayed by the apparent success of others. This perspective helps us to cultivate contentment and gratitude for what we have, rather than comparing ourselves to others. Ultimately, it is a call to focus on spiritual riches rather than material ones, which can lead to a more fulfilling and peaceful life.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Psalms 49:16 to your life

When you see others prospering, remind yourself that true worth is not measured by wealth. Focus on your own blessings and cultivate gratitude. Trust in God’s provision and seek spiritual growth rather than comparing your life to others.

Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Psalms 49:16 teach about wealth?

Psalms 49:16 teaches us not to fear or envy those who become wealthy or gain status. It emphasizes that material wealth is temporary and does not determine a person's true worth or happiness. Instead, we should focus on our relationship with God, which provides lasting security and value.

How can I apply Psalms 49:16 in my life?

To apply Psalms 49:16, practice gratitude for your own blessings and avoid comparing yourself to others. When you see someone prospering, remind yourself that true worth comes from spiritual growth and your relationship with God, not material possessions. This mindset can help you cultivate contentment.

Why should I not be afraid of others' wealth according to this verse?

You should not be afraid of others' wealth because it is a reminder that material success is fleeting. Psalms 49:16 encourages us to focus on what truly matters—our faith and spiritual riches—rather than being swayed by the temporary glory of others, which can lead to envy and discontent.

What is the main message of Psalms 49:16?

The main message of Psalms 49:16 is to encourage individuals to remain steadfast in their faith and not to be intimidated by the wealth or success of others. It highlights the importance of recognizing that true value lies in our spiritual lives and relationship with God, rather than in material possessions.

Book Summary

The Book of Psalms

Psalm 1: Two Paths

This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.

That person is compared to a tree planted by streams of water that produces fruit in season and keeps its leaf from withering, and their way prospers. The ungodly are not like that; they are like chaff driven by the wind. The psalm ends by saying the ungodly do not stand in the judgment or remain among the righteous, because the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the ungodly perishes. Psalm 2: The Anointed King This psalm speaks about nations and rulers stirring up unrest and setting themselves against the LORD and against his Anointed. They speak as if they can break free from God's rule, as though his bonds can be thrown off. The LORD who sits in the heavens responds with scorn and speaks in his wrath. He declares his king set upon Zion, and the Anointed speaks of the decree: he is called the Son and is given the nations for an inheritance. The psalm warns kings and judges to be wise, to serve the LORD with fear, and to rejoice with trembling, ending with a call to honor the Son and a statement that blessed are all who trust in him. Psalm 3: A Psalm of David (Fleeing from Absalom) A Psalm of David, when he flees from Absalom his son. David speaks of many enemies rising up against him and many voices saying there is no help for him in God. He describes pressure on every side and the shame those words bring. David then speaks directly of the LORD as his shield, his glory, and the one who lifts up his head. He says he cries to the LORD and receives an answer from God's holy hill, and he lies down and sleeps because the LORD sustains him. He says he is not afraid though tens of thousands set themselves against him, and he calls on the LORD to arise, asking for deliverance and blessing for God's people.

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