Psalm 91: Dwelling in the Shadow of the Almighty (Part 3)
Discover God’s Unshakable Promises of Protection, Peace, and Power
Psalm 91 is one of my most cherished passages in Scripture, and I hope it is becoming one of yours as well. As we conclude this series, we reflect on just how much this Psalm has revealed to us about God’s incredible promises of protection and trust. This powerful Psalm unveils truths that are both vast and profound. While conditional upon our choice to dwell in the secret place of the Most High, these promises offer unmatched comfort, hope, and assurance to those who trust in Him.
In this final post, we’ll explore the remaining verses, unpacking its depths to encourage your heart, strengthen your faith, and draw you closer to the One who promises to be your refuge and fortress. If you missed Part One click HERE. If you missed Part Two click HERE.
A Journey Through God’s Shielding Grace
Let’s briefly review the first 8 verses. The opening verses of Psalm 91 lay a foundation of God’s promises to those who dwell in His presence. Verse 1 calls us to abide under the shadow of the Almighty, emphasizing the intimacy and safety found in God.
This is not a casual visitation but a lifestyle of communion with Him. The imagery of abiding under His shadow paints a picture of close proximity—so near to God that we are covered by His presence. It signifies a relationship marked by trust, surrender, and dependence.
When we remain in His shadow, we are shielded from the scorching trials of life and the darkness that seeks to overwhelm us.
In verse 2 the Psalmist goes further to describe the Lord as our personal refuge and fortress. A refuge is a place of shelter, where we find rest and restoration. A fortress, on the other hand, is a place of strength and defense.
This dual imagery reflects God’s ability to both comfort us in our weakness and empower us to stand firm against life’s battles. By declaring, “My God, in Him I will trust,” the Psalmist models an unwavering confidence in God’s faithfulness and power.
Every story of hope begins with this truth: God is our refuge.
Verses 3–6 highlight God’s deliverance from hidden traps, deadly diseases, and overwhelming fears. Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the perilous pestilence. The “snare of the fowler” refers to hidden dangers and traps set by the enemy.
These can be physical, emotional, or spiritual attacks designed to ensnare us. Yet God’s deliverance is assured. The perilous pestilence, representing deadly diseases, reminds us of His sovereignty over every form of illness or plague that threatens us.
God’s truth is described as both a shield and buckler. The shield provides broad protection, while the buckler is a smaller, more maneuverable shield used in close combat. This dual protection signifies that God’s Word defends us from large-scale attacks and personal, intimate battles alike.
The safest place isn’t a location—it’s a relationship. God is our refuge.
Verses 7–8 assure us of God’s sovereignty amidst chaos. A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but it shall not come near you. These verses present a vivid picture of God’s protection in the face of overwhelming destruction.
Even when others are consumed by calamity, those who dwell in God’s presence are kept safe. This does not mean that believers are exempt from trials but that we are upheld by God’s hand and secure in His plans.
The Psalm invites us to see with spiritual eyes, recognizing God’s justice and provision. Only with your eyes shall you look, and see the reward of the wicked. This assurance calls us to trust in God’s ultimate justice.
While the world may appear chaotic and unfair, God’s sovereignty reigns supreme. He sees every injustice and will bring about His righteous judgment in His perfect time.
Light breaks through the darkest clouds, and peace takes root where fear once thrived.
The Promise of Dwelling in God
Psalm 91:9–10 (NKJV) says, Because you have made the LORD, who is my refuge, even the Most High, your dwelling place, no evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your dwelling.
These verses invite us into the intimate power of dwelling in God. His Protection.
Let’s examine the words used here:
Evil (raah): Refers to affliction, trouble, adversity, wickedness, or disaster.
Plague (nega): Speaks of a serious threat, such as deadly illness, affliction, or violent crime.
Dwelling: Originally referred to a tent, offering little physical protection. Yet God’s promise was true then and remains true now—His covering shields us.
This promise extends beyond personal protection to encompass our entire household. Just as Joshua declared in Joshua 24:15, “But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” choosing God as our dwelling place invites His protection over our entire family.
God’s covering reminds us that our homes, regardless of their structure or location, are sanctified by His presence when we make Him our refuge. It’s a promise that affirms His protection reaches our loved ones.
Put Your Faith In Action: Declare Psalm 91:10 over your home and family. Create a tangible reminder, such as a plaque or card, displaying this verse in a prominent place. Speak the words of Psalm 91 in faith.
When a family prays together, they invite the divine covering of God’s promises. In the quiet moments of faith, angels are commanded, and protection surrounds every corner. For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways. (Psalm 91:10-11)
Heavenly Guardians: The Role of Angels in God’s Protection
Verses 11–12 promise divine assistance:
For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways. In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.
Key points to note:
Angels are commanded by God, not humans. Speaking to angels directly, as encouraged in some false doctrines, is a form of witchcraft. They take orders from God alone.
Give (tsavah): Means to lay a charge upon or give a command.
Bear (nasa): Means to lift up for the purpose of raising above danger.
This verse assures us of the active role angels play in our lives. Imagine how many times they have shielded us from unseen dangers! Angels act as God’s agents, protecting and ministering to His children.
Even Satan attempted to use this passage in Matthew 4:6 and Luke 4:10, but he misquoted and misapplied it. Jesus resisted, showing us the importance of not only knowing Scripture but also knowing it in its context so we are not deceived.
God’s promises are not to be tested but trusted.
Authority Over the Enemy
Verse 13 declares,
You shall tread upon the lion and the cobra, the young lion and the serpent you shall trample underfoot. These creatures represent the demonic realm and natural dangers.
Scripture affirms our authority:
1 Peter 5:8–9: Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith. (NKJV)
Luke 10:18–19: I give you the authority to trample on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy. (NKJV)
The hierarchical system of the demonic realm—symbolized by the lion, cobra, and serpent—cannot prevail against God’s authority in us. Each threat, whether spiritual or natural, is overcome by the power of Christ.
This verse also reminds us of practical victories—like David’s triumph over the lion and Paul’s survival after a snake bite. God’s authority empowers us in all circumstances.
Pray and Decree: Exercise your spiritual authority by declaring Luke 10:19 during times of spiritual attack. Remain steadfast in faith, knowing God’s power is greater.
Prayer this prayer
“In the name of Jesus Christ, I stand in the authority given to me by God. I tread upon every plan of the enemy and declare victory over all powers of darkness. No weapon formed against me shall prosper, and every scheme is brought to nothing. I decree that I walk in the power of the Holy Spirit, clothed in the armor of God, and covered by His truth. The Lord is my refuge, my fortress, and my deliverer. By His authority, I stand firm, and I am victorious. Amen.”
The Power of Love and Deliverance
Psalm 91:14 says,
Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name.
Here, God speaks to us personally and prophetically, revealing that His promises are rooted in our relationship with Him. To set our love upon Him is an intentional choice to love Him deeply and intimately.
Deuteronomy 7:7–8 reminds us that God’s love came first: The Lord did not set His love on you nor choose you because you were more in number... but because the Lord loves you. This covenant of love distinguishes us as His people.
God’s deliverance isn’t just about external protection but also internal healing. Discipleship, which brings God’s love and truth to our deepest wounds, is a powerful form of deliverance. By addressing internal scars, traumas, and fears, God’s promises of freedom and wholeness take root.
Reflection: Spend time in worship, meditating on God’s love and faithfulness. Consider how His love has transformed your life.
When the world shakes, His refuge remains steady. Run to Him.
God’s Deliverance in Trouble
Verse 15 assures us:
He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him.
This promise reflects God’s grace. While trouble is inevitable, His presence is guaranteed. He hears us when we call, answers us in His perfect way, and walks with us through every trial.
Consider Isaiah 43:2: When you pass through the waters, I will be with you. Similarly, Psalm 23:4 reminds us, Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me.
Encouragement: In moments of trouble, hold fast to these promises. Write them down and speak them out loud, affirming God’s faithfulness.
Blueprint for Intimacy and Protection
Psalm 91 offers a profound blueprint for living intimately with God and under His protection. Its promises are conditional upon our willingness to dwell in Him, love Him, and call upon His name.
It covers every kind of evil, from pestilence to destruction, assuring us of His sovereignty in every area of life.
Next Steps:
Personalize Psalm 91 by inserting your name into its promises. Download a free Wallpaper personalize Psalm 91 for your phone here.
Share this post with someone who needs encouragement and pray this Psalm over their life.
Reflect on how God’s promises of deliverance, protection, and love have shaped your journey.
I’m so excited you stayed around for all 3 parts of this series. I pray that it blessed you tremendously. Let this Psalm be a reminder of God’s unfailing faithfulness. May you find hope, strength, and refuge in Him, your dwelling place.
With love and grace,
Cyndi
All scripture references are taken from the New King James Version (NKJV), unless otherwise noted.
