The Secret Place (Psalm 91)

1 He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High

Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2 I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress;

My God, in Him I will trust.”

These well-known words begin this psalm written by an unnamed author.  This psalm provides extremely powerful images of the power of God to protect and empower His people.  The safety of the secret place and the security of the shadow of the Almighty are comforting images of how God hides us and shields us from the power of the enemy.  Other images that speak to His protection involve his power over snares, pestilence, terror, weapons, and destruction.  The writer declares that those who trust in God in battle will see a thousand fall at their side, and ten thousand at their right hand, while never lifting a hand.  

9 Because you have made the Lord, who is my refuge,

Even the Most High, your dwelling place,

10 No evil shall befall you,

Nor shall any plague come near your dwelling;

The writer offers the promise from God that His angels will have charge over you to keep you, and they will bear you up if your foot trips over a stone.  He even says that the people of God can trample on lions and cobras without harm.  

14 “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.

15 He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him;

I will be with him in trouble;

I will deliver him and honor him.

16 With long life I will satisfy him,

And show him My salvation.”

What one can see here is that God is a Father, Protector, and Nurterer of those who love Him.  He will defend believers against their enemies, give them victory in battle, and elevate them to a place of prominence.  All of this, however, is dependent upon loving God and following His precepts.  This psalm would dispel doubts and fears, and even make a Christian feel practically invincible.  However, to appropriate the promises without devoting the love and obedience is folly.  Love God wholly, completely.  Make Him the prime object of your commitment, loyalty, and worship.  In return, you will be the apple of His eye, and no one can harm you.  One last warning, though: this is not a business transaction or a contract.  Don’t “love” God for the benefits.  Love Him for Who He Is.  Let the benefits just be benefits.