Every day we are reminded that human life is incredibly fragile. As we look at the world, there are endless threats pressing near—disease, war, famine, and spiritual forces of evil, to name a few. It can be easy to focus on these potential dangers and retreat in fear.
In the psalms, we see a realistic description of these threats, but also a strong reminder of God’s loving care and protection. Psalm 91 is a profound call to trust in God, even in the midst of danger. The Psalmist declares that the safest place in the world is to dwell “in the shelter of the Most High” and to “rest in the shadow of the Almighty” (v. 1). Because of this, we do not need to fear “the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day” (v. 5). These real dangers are not beyond God’s supervision.
Some of the most profound statements about God’s protection are found in this psalm (worth bookmarking in your Bible!). The Psalmist declares that “no harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near you” (v. 10). Our daily experience may seem to indicate otherwise. Indeed, many of the godliest people in the Bible experienced persecution and suffering. So, how are we to understand this language? Perhaps it is best understood referring to God’s ultimate defeat of evil at the return of Christ. Writing from a prison cell and close to death, Paul uses similar language: “The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom” (2 Tim. 4:17).
>> It is easy to look at our circumstances and experience fear. But the Psalmist and Paul looked to God for protection. This psalm is a good reminder to us that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ (Rom. 8:37–39)!
Pray with Us
You have already made good Your promise to deliver us from evil; our future with You is secure and eternal. Even when we ask for Your protection, we understand that nothing can separate us from You.
BY Ryan Cook
Dr. Ryan Cook has taught at Moody Bible Institute since 2012. He earned his bachelor of arts in Bible and Theology from Moody and his master of arts in Old Testament from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. He has worked in Christian education and served as a pastor in Michigan for seven years. During his time as a professor at Moody, he earned his doctorate from Asbury Theological Seminary. He now lives with his wife, Ashley, and their three children in the Chicagoland area.