Rock of Ages

by Pauline Simonsen

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People, despite their wealth, do not endure; they are like the beasts that perish (Psalm 49:12).

Read Psalm 49:1–12

We live in frightening times. Great nations are dominated by rich, power-hungry individuals who shape the law to their benefit. Ego and greed influence government. Wars of age-old, stubborn hatred are stirred up, and the common people suffer. Christians are increasingly persecuted in this amoral, cruel age. For many, it feels more like Jesus’ ‘last times’.

But it has always been this way, as any reader of history knows. Since Genesis 3, human sin has fomented evil, especially for God’s people. Our time is no different.

So, listen to the psalmist in Psalm 49:5,6:

Why should I be afraid in times of trouble, when the sinful deeds of deceptive men threaten to overwhelm me? They trust in their wealth and boast in their great riches.

That’s written up to 3,000 years ago! Human ways haven’t changed much. Why should I be afraid that this still happens? The psalmist counsels themself to keep an eternal perspective. ‘Truly, no ransom avails for one’s life; there is no price one can give to God for it’ (Psalm 49:7).

All the riches and power in this world won’t help a person save their eternal life. Nor, indeed, their earthly life.

Fools and spiritually insensitive people all pass away, and leave their wealth to others.
Their grave becomes their permanent residence, their eternal dwelling place.
They name their lands after themselves, but, despite their wealth, people do not last (Psalm 49:10–12).

Throughout the week, we’ve seen how all the created things we humans vest our trust in fall away. Our fig leaves, our badges of honour, our wealth and power – none help us before God. Only God can help us, and he has – in Jesus Christ. The greatest wisdom in the world is simply this:

Nothing in my hand I bring,
Simply to thy cross I cling;
Naked, come to thee for dress;
Helpless, look to thee for grace;
Foul, I to the fountain fly;
Wash me, Saviour, or I die.
(A M Toplady, Rock of Ages)

Our Heavenly Abba draws us to his Son, our Rock of Ages, who hides us in himself. Cleansed, safe, loved. Home forever.

Rock of ages, cleft for me, let me hide myself in thee. You alone are my Saviour, and in you, I find rest and peace forevermore. Bless you, Lord Jesus.

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