Rich young man, you think you can
Make it through the world on the things you've got
I'll tell you, I know it's true
You can't get to heaven on things you've bought
They're going to leave you
They're going to fade away
What good is it a man
to gain the whole world
And forfeit his soul
What good is it a man
To gain the whole world
And forfeit his soul
Poor old soul, he got more
Than the kings of a thousand countries
What he owns ain't silver or gold
This boy is bound for glory
He's going to leave us
He's going to fly away
"What Good" by Third Day is a powerful song that challenges the listener to reflect on the true worth of material possessions and the importance of focusing on eternal things. The lyrics speak to a rich young man who believes that he can find fulfillment and salvation through worldly possessions. However, the song emphasizes that true fulfillment and eternal salvation cannot be found in material wealth.
The inspiration behind the song likely comes from the biblical passage in Mark 8:36-37, where Jesus asks, "What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?" This passage highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual matters over worldly pursuits. The song's lyrics echo this message, reminding us that no matter how much wealth or success we accumulate in this world, it means nothing if we neglect our relationship with God.
The opening lyrics paint a vivid picture of a rich young man who is confident in his ability to navigate the world solely based on his material possessions. However, the song challenges this notion by stating that these things will eventually fade away, leaving him empty and unfulfilled. It serves as a warning to anyone who places their hope and identity in material wealth, reminding them that it is ultimately temporary and insignificant in the grand scheme of eternity.
The chorus of the song reiterates the question posed by Jesus in Mark 8:36-37, asking, "What good is it a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?" This question encourages introspection and self-reflection, urging the listener to evaluate their priorities and consider the eternal consequences of their choices.
The bridge of the song introduces a contrasting character, a "poor old soul" who possesses nothing in terms of worldly possessions. However, the song reveals that this individual is actually richer than the richest kings because they are bound for glory. This serves as a powerful reminder that true wealth lies in our relationship with God and our eternal destination, rather than in the accumulation of material possessions.
The overall message of the song is one of caution and encouragement. It challenges us to examine our hearts and priorities, reminding us that true fulfillment and eternal significance cannot be found in the things of this world. Instead, we are called to seek the things that are eternal and to invest in our relationship with God.
"What Good" by Third Day is a thought-provoking song that confronts our society's obsession with material wealth and success. It encourages us to consider the true worth of our souls and the eternal impact of our choices. As we reflect on the lyrics and the biblical passages they draw from, may we be inspired to pursue that which is truly valuable and lasting.
