How can a person know if when they die they will descend below as their body lays decaying in the grave or if they will rise from the dead and eternally see the light of day? These verses give unexpected answers to some preconceived illusions.
If I am born rich and die rich, is this an indication that I am right with the judge of my soul and thus will rise from the dead? No. If I am born poor and die rich, is this an indication that I am right with the judge of my soul and thus will rise from the dead? No. “Do not be overawed when a man grows rich, when the splendor of his house increases; for he will take nothing with him when he dies, his splendor will not descend with him.” (16-17) Whether I prosper or degrade monetarily is not an indication of my destiny after my body ceases to function. Consider the apostles and the prophets.
If I consider myself blessed and am praised by others because I am successful an indication that I am right with the judge of my soul and thus will rise from the dead? No. If I consider myself forsaken and shunned by others for whatever reason an indication that I am right with the judge of my soul and thus will rise from the dead? No. “Though while he lived he counted himself blessed– and men praise you when you prosper– he will join the generation of his fathers, who will never see the light of life.” (18-19)
