Psalm 91 is a powerful reminder that REAL safety and security are ultimately only found in God. It is a psalm of trust that, along with Psalm 46, is in a class all its own. The story of our faith is written in the names of God in the first two verses of Psalm 91. He’s the “Most High” (Genesis 14:18-22; 17:1; 43:14 ). He is the God greater than all – the God of the Patriarchs! He’s also the “Almighty.” This refers to His Sovereign power and might (Exodus 6:3; Psalm 68:14). God also is referred to as “the LORD” and as “my God.” The first word used has reference to God as a covenant making God Who desires a relationship with man kind (Exodu s 3:1 3-15). The other term is “Elohim.” He heaps up Old Testament ways of speaking of the true and living God!
It is in this God that the psalmist places “my trust.” He considers this God “my refuge and my fortress.” The psalmist “abides” in the “shadow of the Almighty.” The safest place in all the world is in God’s shadow! The writer “dwells” in the “shelter” of the Most High. He the One to which we turn for help. What an affirmation of trust!
Psalm 91 goes on to describe “a round the clock threat” to its author’s safety – dangers like snares, pestilence and disease, the terror of attack, all manner of evil (vv. 3-10), yet God judges evil doers and sees him through. God’s care through His angels and providence is amazing! (vv. 11-13). One is victorious over forces much stronger and cunning than we are due to God’s precious care.
Psalm 91:14-16 contains seven promises of God, but it’s important to first consider the three reasons God promises these blessings. The three conditions for knowing the blessings of God’s security are (1) Because he holds fast to me in love (vs. 14), (2) because he knows My name (vs. 14) and because he calls to me (vs. 15). It is to this person God says, “I will deliver, I will protect, I will answer, I will be with, I will rescue and honor, I will satisfy and I will show him my salvation” (14-16).
Never doubt when you’re surrounded by trouble where to find safety and security. Real safety is only found in Christ! (Read John 14:27; Philippians 4:6-7).
-Mike Vestal
0 Comments