Psalm 91:1–16 ‘Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.’ (v1)
This psalm is a beautiful promise of ‘shelter’ and ‘rest’ in God. It is a psalm we often quote when we feel we are being attacked or oppressed in some way. Verse 2 tells us that God is a ‘refuge’ and a ‘fortress’, and later verses speak of salvation and covering.
Whatever the terrors, seen or unseen, ‘no harm will overtake [us]’ (v10). God will send His angels to watch over us (vv11–13). God says we will be rescued, protected and heard during our times of trouble; why? Because we love Him.
We can call to Him, and He will deliver us (vv14–16). But there’s a proviso. It is those who choose to ‘dwell’ with God who can experience this blessing (v9). Christians have an enemy, an accuser, who seeks to ‘devour’ us, like a ‘roaring lion’ (1 Pet. 5:8).
The book of Ephesians tells us that we need to be suited up in God’s armour so that we can ‘stand against the devil’s schemes’ (Eph. 6:11). It’s helpful to know that our battle in this life isn’t against other humans, but is spiritual in nature (Eph. 6:12).
Jesus Himself came against the enemy while He walked the earth, most notably in His temptation in the wilderness. But He also overcame this, and brought freedom to those bound in darkness (Luke 8:2).
In Luke 10:19, Jesus promises His followers power to ‘overcome’ the darkness. He has given us authority! But the key to living in this promise is to make it our aim to dwell in God, resting more consistently in His presence.
A Prayer To Make:
‘Lord, I thank You that You are my shelter and protection. I praise You that You are the great and mighty God. Help me to dwell in Your presence every day. Amen.’
An Action To Take:
Read Psalm 91 out loud. Ask the Spirit of God if He is pinpointing something He wants you to notice. How might He be speaking into a specific area of your life today?
Scripture To Consider:
Ezek. 28:12–19; Job 1:1–22; Matt. 4:1–11; Eph. 6:10–20
