Scripture Reading: Psalm 91:1-16
“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.”—Psalm 91:1
Insurance policies, alarm systems, warranties, umbrellas, vaccinations, and a child’s security blanket. What do these things have in common? Whether for our families, health, possessions, bodies, or peace of mind, they represent some form of protection and security for our lives. Having protection for the things we value is a comforting feeling.
Like a child’s security blanket, Psalm 91 invokes the image of a covering of divine comfort and security, especially in the midst of troubling times. The psalmist speaks of walking in the shadow of God wherever they go. Retreating to God as their place of refuge and protection. Recognizing God as their deliverer when others set plots to entrap them. Resting under God’s covering, like a baby chick under its mother’s feathers. Being confident in God as a faithful shield of protection. Trusting God as their guardian against terror, attack, darkness, destruction, and evil.
The psalmist doesn’t start the psalm with all those comforting images. Instead, the psalm begins with their position in God—“He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High.” Before all those assurances of protection and security can be trusted, the believer must hold God as their dwelling place, their long-term habitation. The psalmist paints an image of security everyone wants, but qualifies that imagery found only by abiding in the presence of God.
Yet, we have to exercise caution; Psalm 91 is not a guarantee that nothing bad will ever happen to us or those we love. Satan quoted Psalm 91:11-12 as justification for Jesus to tempt God, but Jesus’ response (Matthew 4:5-7, Luke 4:9-12), encourages us to recognize faithfulness to God’s word is the key to abiding in the secret place of God. Even when our security is tested, God assures us of divine companionship by the words spoken to the psalmist, “I will be with him in trouble” (Psalm 91:15).
We provide security for our family, health and possessions because we know inevitably, things will happen. So we go to someone for insurance, protection, or a warranty. Those policies provide a sense of peace that when things go wrong, we are covered. Should we not do the same or even more for our lives and souls? What are you fretful about today? If God is your dwelling place, you have nothing to fear, worry and dread. God offers a policy of coverage no one can match!
Lesson to Remember: For protection from rain, stand under an umbrella. For protection from life, stand under God!
“You are my hiding place;
You shall preserve me from trouble;
You shall surround me with songs of deliverance.”—Psalm 32:7
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