Psalm 91 is one of the most famous and beloved psalms in the Bible. It is known as the “Psalm of Protection” and is often used in prayers for protection and safety. In this Bible study, we are going to explore each verse of Psalm 91 in depth and examine its spiritual implications. In addition, let’s dive into other parts of the Bible that relate to Psalm 91 and see how these passages complement and extend its meaning.
Psalm 91 begins with a powerful statement:
“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my God, my refuge, my fortress, in whom I will trust.’” ( Psalm 91:1-2 )
This verse establishes the core idea of Psalm 91: God is our protector and we can trust him to keep us safe and secure. The remainder of the Psalm expands on this idea, showing how God protects us in every area of our lives.
Verse 1-2: God as our refuge
Psalm 91 begins with a declaration of trust in God as our refuge and strength, as seen in verses 1-2. In them it is mentioned that he who dwells in the shelter of the Most High rests in the shadow of the Almighty. This shows the importance of seeking to be close to God in order to obtain security and peace.
Psalm 46:1-2 also highlights trust in God as our refuge and strength: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear even if the earth moves, and even if the mountains fall into the midst of the seas.” Furthermore, in Proverbs 18:10 we read that “A strong tower is the name of the Lord; to it shall the righteous run, and shall be in high refuge.”
These verses remind us that God is our refuge in times of need and that we can put our trust in him for security and peace.
Verses 3-4: Protection from physical danger
Verses 3-4 of Psalm 91 talk about God’s protection against physical danger: “For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the harmful pestilence. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will be safe; his truth will be your shield and buckler.” (Psalm 91:3-4)
These verses depict the image of God as a protective parent who keeps us from harm. The analogy of feathers and wings suggests a safe and nurturing environment, while the reference to God’s “truth” as our shield and buckler suggests that He protects us from snares and dangers through His Word.
Psalm 91 is often quoted as a hymn of divine protection and trust in God during difficult times. This psalm encourages us to trust in the Lord for our safety and protection, and to believe that He is our refuge and strength in times of danger.
“For he will deliver the needy when he cries, as well as the afflicted and the helpless. He will have mercy on the poor and needy, and will save the souls of the needy.” (Psalm 72:12-13)
This verse highlights God’s care and protection for the needy and afflicted. As in Psalm 91, we see the image of God as a protective Father who hears and answers our prayers. The reference to “the poor and needy” reminds us that God not only protects us from physical harm, but also cares for us in our material and emotional needs.
This verse encourages us to trust God and pray to Him in all circumstances, knowing that He is a loving God who is attentive to our needs. It is a reminder that God’s protection and care go beyond the physical, but also include our emotional and spiritual needs.
Verses 5-6: Protection from fears and anxieties
Verses 5-6 of Psalm 91 tell us about the protection God offers against fears and anxieties: “You shall not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor the plague that it descends at midday.” These verses remind us that God is able to protect us not only from physical dangers but also from the fears and anxieties that plague us. We can trust him in all circumstances, knowing that he is able to keep us at all times.
The Bible offers us several passages that reinforce the message of verses 5-6 of Psalm 91. For example, in Philippians 4:6-7, we are exhorted not to be anxious about anything, but instead to pray and surrender our worries. goodbye. Verse 7 promises us that the peace of God, which surpasses all human understanding, will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Likewise, in 2 Timothy 1:7 we read that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and self-discipline. It shows us that when we feel fear or anxiety, we can trust God to give us the strength and courage we need to face those challenges.
In summary, verses 5-6 of Psalm 91 and other biblical passages remind us that God is able to protect and comfort us in the midst of life’s fears and anxieties. We can trust him and turn our cares over to him, knowing that he is faithful to care for us.
Verses 7-8: The Reward of Trusting God
Verses 7-8 of Psalm 91 are a powerful testimony of the reward of those who trust in God. They say, “A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand; but thou shalt not be hit. With thine eyes only shalt thou behold, and see the reward of the wicked.” (Psalm 91:7-8).
These verses highlight that those who trust in God can find protection and security even in difficult circumstances. This does not mean that nothing bad will ever happen to them, but that God is always there to protect them and help them overcome obstacles. This is confirmed by other passages in the Bible, such as Proverbs 3:5-6, which says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. Acknowledge him in all your ways, and he will make your paths straight.”
These verses also emphasize that God is just and will reward those who put their trust in him. In fact, Psalm 37:4-5 says, “Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust him, and he will do it.” When we put our trust in God, we can be sure that he will bless us in ways we could never have imagined.
Verses 9-10: God’s protection at all times
“For you, O Lord, are my refuge. In the Most High you made your dwelling. No evil shall befall you, nor shall any plague come near your tent.” (Psalm 91:9-10)
These verses emphasize that God is always there to protect those who love him. They assure us that God is our refuge and dwelling place, and that he protects us from all the evils and plagues that may afflict us. This is an encouraging message that invites us to trust God at all times and depend on him for our protection. Other verses that reinforce divine protection include: Psalm 121:7-8 and Proverbs 18:10.
Verses 11-13: Angels as our guardians
Verses 11-13 of Psalm 91 highlight the role of angels as our guardians and protectors: “For he will give his angels charge over you, to guard you in all your ways. They will support you in their hands, so that your foot will not stumble against any stone. Thou shalt tread upon the lion and the snake; thou shalt trample the young lion and the serpent underfoot.” (Psalm 91:11-13).
God promises to send his angels to protect and guide us in all our ways. These verses remind us that we have authority over the forces of evil and that we can overcome any obstacles that may come our way. “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and all the strength of the enemy, and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” (Luke 10:19).
Therefore, we can trust God and his angels to protect and guide us every moment of our lives.
Verses 14-16: The salvation and honor that come from God
“Because he clings to me in love, I will deliver him; I will set him on high retreat, because he knew my name. He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him. I will give him plenty of days and show him my salvation.” (Psalm 91:14-16)
These verses state that those who cling to God in love will receive his salvation and honor. They also highlight God’s faithfulness in answering our prayers and delivering us from our afflictions. Verse 14 talks about God’s promise to deliver those who love him, while verse 15 emphasizes that He always hears our prayers and is with us in difficult situations. Verse 16 already shows us God’s generosity in giving us an abundant life and showing us his salvation.
Related Biblical References
In addition to Psalm 91, there are many other passages in the Bible that relate to the theme of divine protection. Some of them include:
- Isaiah 41:10: “Do not be afraid, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my faithful right hand.”
- Matthew 6:25-34: “Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? […] So do not worry about tomorrow; because tomorrow will take care of itself. Sufficient for the day is its evil.”
These passages remind us that we can trust God at all times and that he is our protector and provider. They also encourage us not to fear and to put our trust in him.
Psalm 91 is a powerful passage that reminds us of the protection and care God offers to those who trust in him. He highlights that God is our refuge and dwelling place, that he sends us angels to protect us, and that we can trust him at all times. May we remember these truths in our daily lives and put our trust in God, knowing that he is faithful and protects us from all harm.
Questions about Psalms 91
What is the central theme of Psalm 91?
- The central theme of Psalm 91 is divine protection.
What do verses 7-8 highlight about the reward of trusting God?
- Verses 7-8 highlight that trust in God brings protection and security, and that God is just and will reward those who trust in him.
What do verses 11-13 say about the role of angels?
- Verses 11-13 speak about the role of angels as our guardians, sent by God to protect and guide us in our ways.
What do verses 14-16 say about those who cling to God in love?
- Verses 14-16 state that those who cling to God in love will receive their salvation and honor, and that God is faithful to answer our prayers and deliver us from our afflictions.
What are some biblical passages related to the theme of divine protection?
- Some biblical passages related to the theme of divine protection include Proverbs 18:10, Isaiah 41:10 and Matthew 6:25-34.
With Psalm 91, we can learn to trust God at all times, regardless of the circumstances around us. He reminds us that God is our refuge and strength, and that we can find safety and protection in him. Furthermore, he highlights the importance of trusting God and how it can bring rewards and blessings in our lives.
When studying Psalm 91, it is important to note that it does not promise a life free from problems or difficulties. Rather, he recognizes the reality of suffering and danger in our lives. However, he reminds us that even in the midst of these difficult circumstances, we can trust God and find safety and protection in his presence.
One of the most significant passages in Psalm 91 is God’s promise to send angels to protect us. Verse 11 says, “For he will give his angels charge over you, to guard you in all your ways.” This promise reminds us that God is not only present in our lives, but also sends his angels to protect and guide us in our paths.
Another important promise in Psalm 91 is that those who trust in God will receive his protection and security. Verse 2 says, “I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” This statement reminds us that trust in God is fundamental to receiving his protection and care.
Furthermore, Psalm 91 highlights the importance of prayer and seeking God in our lives. Verse 15 says, “He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will take him out of her, and I will glorify him.” It reminds us that when we go to God in prayer and cry out to him for help, he hears and answers us.
In short, Psalm 91 is a powerful passage that reminds us of the protection and care God offers to those who trust in him. He highlights the importance of trusting God, seeking his presence in our lives and the promise that he sends his angels to protect and guide us on our paths. May we learn to trust God at all times and find safety and protection in his presence.
