Psalm 62:10

Place no trust in extortion, or false hope in stolen goods. If your riches increase, do not set your heart upon them.

Study Bible

Place no trust in extortion
The Hebrew word for "extortion" is "עֹשֶׁק" (osheq), which conveys the idea of oppression or unjust gain. In the ancient Near Eastern context, extortion was a common practice among those in power, often exploiting the vulnerable. The psalmist warns against placing trust in such ill-gotten gains, emphasizing that reliance on unethical means is contrary to God's righteous standards. This admonition serves as a reminder that true security and trust should be placed in God alone, not in the fleeting and corruptible gains of this world.

or false hope in stolen goods
The phrase "false hope" underscores the deceptive nature of relying on what is unlawfully obtained. The Hebrew word for "stolen" is "גָּזַל" (gazal), which means to seize or take by force. Historically, stolen goods might provide temporary satisfaction or wealth, but they ultimately lead to spiritual and moral decay. The psalmist highlights the futility of placing hope in such transient and unrighteous possessions, urging believers to seek integrity and righteousness in their dealings.

If your riches increase
The increase of riches is not condemned in itself; rather, it is the attitude towards wealth that is scrutinized. The Hebrew context suggests a natural growth or accumulation of wealth, which can occur through honest labor and divine blessing. The psalmist acknowledges that wealth can grow, but it is crucial to maintain a proper perspective on its role and significance in one's life. This serves as a call to stewardship, recognizing that all blessings come from God and should be used for His glory.

do not set your heart upon them
The heart, in Hebrew thought, represents the center of one's emotions, desires, and will. The psalmist warns against allowing wealth to capture one's affections or become the primary focus of life. This echoes the broader biblical teaching that love for God should surpass all earthly attachments. By cautioning against setting one's heart on riches, the psalmist encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God and to find contentment and security in Him alone, rather than in material possessions.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 62, David was the second king of Israel and a man after God's own heart. His life was marked by both triumphs and trials, providing a rich backdrop for his psalms.

2. Israel
The nation to whom the psalm was originally addressed, often facing challenges related to wealth, power, and trust in God versus trust in material possessions.

3. Extortion and Stolen Goods
These represent unethical means of gaining wealth, which are condemned in this verse. They serve as a warning against placing trust in ill-gotten gains.

Teaching Points

Trust in God, Not Wealth
Wealth is temporary and unreliable. Our ultimate trust should be in God, who is eternal and unchanging.

Ethical Living
Pursue wealth through honest and ethical means. Ill-gotten gains lead to spiritual and often material ruin.

Guard Your Heart
As riches increase, be vigilant not to let them capture your heart. Our affections should be set on things above, not on earthly wealth.

Contentment and Generosity
Learn to be content with what you have and use any increase in wealth to bless others, reflecting God's generosity.

Eternal Perspective
Keep an eternal perspective, recognizing that material wealth is fleeting and that true riches are found in a relationship with God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Psalm 62:10 challenge our modern views on wealth and success?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our trust remains in God rather than in material possessions, especially when our wealth increases?

3. Reflect on a time when you were tempted to gain something through unethical means. How does this verse speak to that situation?

4. How can we cultivate a heart that is content and generous, even in a culture that often equates success with material wealth?

5. What practical steps can you take to maintain an eternal perspective on wealth and possessions, as encouraged by other scriptures like Matthew 6:19-21 and 1 Timothy 6:17?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Proverbs 11:28
This verse warns that those who trust in their riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf. It echoes the theme of misplaced trust in wealth.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus teaches about storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, emphasizing where one's heart should be.

1 Timothy 6:17
Paul advises the wealthy not to be arrogant or to put their hope in wealth, which is uncertain, but to put their hope in God.