You know those days when life throws you a curveball, and you’re like, “Man, I really wish I had an indestructible shield right about now?” No, we are not talking about turning into Captain America, although that would be dope. We are talking about a spiritual shield, a cosmic security blanket if you will, that’s been around for thousands of years. Enter Psalm 91, the ultimate spiritual cheat code for divine protection and peace.
“We’re all just walking each other home,” said Ram Dass, a spiritual teacher. Well, consider Psalm 91 the metaphysical GPS guiding you through the maze of life, unscathed and intact. Let’s understand what this powerful text and prayer stand for and how it can help you smoothly sail through every storm that life puts you in.
The Nitty-Gritty: What is Psalm 91?
Let’s dig into what exactly it is, shall we? Psalm 91 is part of the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament. Psalm 91 is one of the 150 chapters in the Book of Psalms, which sits smack-dab in the middle of the Bible. Whether you are Christian, Jewish, or just spiritually curious, this chapter offers universal wisdom for those looking to add a little extra ‘oomph’ to their spiritual armor.
The psalm itself is a poetic hymn that promises protection, safety, and ultimate deliverance for those who trust in God. The psalm talks about God’s protective nature, promising safety and security to those who put their faith in the divine. Some even refer to it as the “Soldier’s Prayer,” given its history of providing a morale boost to folks in tough situations. It’s like a spiritual cheat code to life’s hardest levels; providing you with invincibility, life-giving potions, and even a little bit of that superhero swagger. It’s divided into 16 verses, each of which serves as a mini-affirmation of divine protection. From assurance against nocturnal terrors to immunity from deadly diseases, it’s got your back, your front, and everything in between!
Author Anne Lamott once noted, “The opposite of faith is not doubt: It is certainty.” This psalm embraces that uncertainty and turns it on its head. It assures that no matter how dicey things get, if you’re a God-believer, you’ve got this invisible, impenetrable shield around you. Can I get an amen?
Who wrote Psalm 91?
You now might be wondering about who wrote Psalm 91. Well, there’s a bit of a debate on that. While some folks say it was Moses, the same guy who parted the Red Sea, others argue that it could have been penned by David, the king who beat Goliath. The takeaway is the same whether it was Moses with his staff or David with his harp. This Psalm came from a place of deep understanding about life’s trials and tribulations. It’s like your wise grandma passing down life advice, except instead of talking about “the one that got away,” it’s more like “how not to get carried away by life’s craziness.”
Psalm 91 Explained: Verse-by-Verse
Verse 1
“Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.”
In other words, if you’re chilling in God’s crib, you live under his divine umbrella. It’s like saying, “My Father’s got my back,” to all the problems and struggles thrown your way.
Verse 2
“I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
This is the equivalent of updating your relationship status on Facebook to “In a committed relationship with God for life!” It’s putting all your eggs in one divine basket and being super chill because you know they’re safer there than ever.
Verse 3
“Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.”
Whether it’s a trap set by haters or dodging life’s figurative bullets, you’re covered. It’s like having an antivirus that shields you from every possible harm.
Verse 4
“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart”
Ever seen a mama bird covering her babies? That’s you, under God’s wings. It’s a shield and a buckler for your soul. Think of it as having a divine umbrella over your head at all times in the most cruel storms.
Verse 5
“You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day.”
So, whether it’s things that go bump in the night or the harsh slings and arrows of outrageous fortune (yeah, that was Shakespeare), you’re covered. It’s like walking through a sketchy neighborhood but in an invisible, bulletproof bubble.
Verse 6
“Nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor the destruction that wastes at noonday.”
Yeah, life can get gnarly. You’ve got threats lurking around every corner—either slow-burning ones or stuff that hits you like a freight train. But, fear not! You’ve got divine armor on, so bring it as it comes!
Verse 7
“A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.”
The odds might be stacked against you, but when you’re under the divine VIP list, you’re most likely to survive all the trials and tribulations unscathed. It’s like playing a video game with an unlimited health cheat.
Verse 8
“You will only observe with your eyes and see the punishment of the wicked.”
In layman’s terms, you’ll witness poetic justice right before your eyes. It’s like watching a movie where the bad guy finally gets his comeuppance and you’re there, popcorn in hand, shouting, “I knew it!”
Verses 9 & 10
“If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,” and you make the Most High your dwelling,”
“No harm will overtake you, no disaster will come near your tent.”
Making God your “home base” means you’re in the safest place imaginable. This doesn’t mean you won’t ever experience hardship, but it suggests that when you do, you won’t go at it alone. You’ll always have god near you to protect your soul and home.
Verse 11
“For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”
Angel bodyguards? Yes, please! According to this verse, you’ve got a divine Secret Service following you around. As bestselling author Max Lucado puts it, “Angels are God’s first responders.” So you’re not just stumbling through life; you’re being actively guided every step of the way.
Verse 12
“They will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone”
Ever tripped and thought you were about to faceplant but somehow you didn’t? This verse suggests that these “near-misses” aren’t just luck or coincidence. It’s like having a personal harness attached to your back at all times which is controlled by God’s angels preventing you from tripping and hurting yourself.
Verse 13
“You will tread on the lion and the cobra; you will trample the great lion and the serpent.”
Don’t take this one literally; it’s not advising you to go pick fights with lions or step on snakes. This is about conquering your fears and obstacles, however big or menacing they may seem. Picture yourself as a spiritual gladiator fueled by strength through your love and trust in god, ready to take on whatever beastly challenges life throws at you.
Verse 14
“Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;
I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.”
The crux of the psalm, this part, boils down to love and intimacy with the Divine. It’s like being on a first-name basis with the CEO of the universe. You’re not just another face in the crowd; you’re a VIP with backstage passes to spiritual protection, and the price for it: just your love and acknowledgment.
Verse 15
“He will call on me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble,
I will deliver him and honor him.”
This is like God’s customer service pledge to you, and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t want that kind of assurance? The line is never busy, and the service is always top-notch. You ring, and the Divine picks up, solving all your troubles and compelling you to leave a five-star rating!
Verse 16
“With long life, I will satisfy him and show him My salvation.”
This is the cherry on top, folks. Not just protection for today but a promise for a fulfilling, meaningful life. It’s like getting a lifetime warranty that also enhances the product over time.
In a world where we look for hacks, cheats, and quick fixes, this ancient text has been the ultimate life hack for countless generations. As you wade through the turbulent waters of life, remember this psalm is your spiritual life jacket. You’re not just floating; you’re sailing with style.
Breaking it Down: Modern-Day Applications of Psalm 91
1. Anxiety and Mental Health
Feeling like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders? Well, the cool thing about spiritual shields is that they’re not just for physical protection; they work on a mental and emotional level too. The strong words of assurance in the prayer help you put your mind at ease that you’re under the almighty’s protection and are taken care of to a certain extent.
2. Decision-making
When you’re at a crossroads, and you don’t know which way to go, Psalm 91 is like your spiritual Google Maps. It doesn’t matter if you’re deciding between colleges, jobs, or relationships; sometimes you need that spiritual nudge to bring about the much-needed clarity to guide you toward a strong decision.
3. Relationships
Are you up the creek without a paddle in your relationship? Sometimes we need protection from emotional harm. Relying on a higher power can provide that refuge when your emotional life looks like a soap opera.
4. Facing the Unknown
Life is full of curveballs, and as the saying goes, “Man plans and God laughs.” Well, Psalm 91 is like a spiritual contingency plan. It acts as some sort of assurance that whatever life may throw at you, you have some degree of protection against it.
Naysayers Gonna Naysay: The Skeptics
Okay, so not everyone is on board with the whole “divine shield” concept. Critics argue that Psalm 91 is overly optimistic and that it’s not a guarantee against life’s hardships.
Well, noted author Tim Keller responds to this skepticism by saying, “A faith without some doubts is like a human body without any antibodies in it.” Doubts make your faith robust and versatile. And hey, even if you consider it a placebo if it works, it works, right?
Wrap It Up, Buttercup: The Takeaway
Psalm 91 isn’t just a fluffy, feel-good chapter; it’s a tool for resilience. It’s not about dodging difficulties; it’s about walking through the fire and coming out without even the smell of smoke on you.
So, the next time life tries to rain on your parade, remember that you’ve got the most robust, most reliable spiritual umbrella ever. As you navigate this tumultuous landscape called life, just know that with Psalm 91, you’re not just flying by the seat of your pants. Rather, you’re flying First Class, shielded and protected to eternal life.
David Molina
Believing in the promises of redemption and the Love of Jesus Christ for his children, I woke up thinking about this Psalm of hope.
Heladio Gomez
Almighty God creator of Heaven and Earth of everything finite and infinite, has the absolute power of everything good and everything bad ... therefore if God with me and I in Him, who against me?
Patricio pedrero
Psalm 91, is the rest of our soul and the hope that we seek day by day, I trust in Jehovah blessed in our Lord Jesus Christ and the holy spirit, the holy trinity, Amen
Roberto Salazar
Lord, I am not worthy for you to enter my house, but a word from you will be enough to heal me!
Jesus Guzman
Jesus Guzman I have being claiming this scripture for years; miracles has happening in our life.
Jimmy G. Tohol
Psalms 91 is full of God's promises. Standing on these promises will save anyone who believe.
Catina Dedman
Thank you Jesus for one more day of life of loving you and blessing you, thank you for my children and my family, that you will have work doors and all plague will go away. In your name, heavenly father, thank you for all the blessings that you give me.
Eugene Gucwa
Thank you God for this beautiful day that you gave me, I ask you for all the people who now fight in hospitals for this disease such as covid19, beloved father that nobody needs food, father I ask you for the people who now they are on the street sleeping exposing themselves to viruses and pollution. Beloved father I ask you for the people who read this message, protect them with your wings, beloved father. Happy day everyone, God bless you.
Shannon Luetke
Amen Amen Amen Thank You God Thank You in Jesus Name Amen Amen Amen
Pita Marin
He is my refuge and fortress GOD in HE I will trust for ever and ever. Loved the video my every day prayer PSALMS 91 GOD bless yous always AMEN and AMEN ????
Raimie Szabo
Thank you beloved of God Almighty for psalm 91
Veronica Marudo
I believe what's happening these days like the corona virus are signs that the Lord is coming soon. If you have not repented and accepted the Lord as your Saviour the time to do ut is now.
Nenita Blum
We are all guests in this earth. Young and old, rich and poor. We have to go and we can't bring one single things, except our good spiritual done.. Praise you oh LORD.. AMEN
Shanghai Kim Buentipo Chan
This has taught me that nothing is permanent even human lives. But the word of God will remain and last long until the world ends and Jesus Christ returns on his created home.?
Samuel Mangenge
This is a reminder that this wold is not our permanent home. Accept JESUS Christ to be your LORD and savior. The end is real. AMEN.
Grace de Jesus
The second coming will surely come so let us (Christians) double our time to obey God's command to share the good news to the lost...that the assurance of salvation can only be found if we truly accepted JESUS CHRIST in our heart as our Lord and Savior.!
Denice Hicks
Thank you for sharing the hope we find in God's word.
Oliver Alexander
Wow wow that’s so beautiful ? thanks ? sister for sharing so beautiful words from our dear lord Jesus Christ amen ?
Dorlynn Bundy Fortner
Amen
Sarah Jones Dailey
Unfortunately many people also believe that God heals all who ask in the way they tell Him to. God does not abide by our rules. My 9 year old and I both deal with moderate to severe asthma. It is my responsibility as his mother both to protect him and to protect my health so I will be around to care for him. The kill rate of this virus is not the only consideration. The American Journal of Medicine posted last month a study that states the severity of the virus, if contracted, is shown to be less severe, with fewer lasting side effects when the viral load is reduced by mask wearing and social distancing. Our health, our medical bills and our comfort are in a better place when we do this simple thing. This is wisdom, not fear.
Ma Ma Linda Waddell-Paz
I had a son who spent 2 years in hospital with Asthma. Stopped breathing twice. Had a trac (tracheostomy) , so I know about Asthma. I would not stop believing for his healing!!!! When he finally was released from the hospital, he came home with the trac ( tracheostomy) and 11 medications , but I refused to give into his sickness but declared healing over him everyday. I believe in being as "wise as s serpent and harmless as a dove," like the bible says. Yes, we are to use wisdom, but NOT TO WALK IN FEAR! We were told to expect him not to make it a number of times, so I know what your saying BUT God's word supersedes the Medical diaganosis! He is married with the 2 most beautuful children. Was a youth pastor for over 10 years and works for a large company n travels worldwide. GOD IS OUR HEALER!!!!!!!! He does heal ALL of our diseases!
Catalina Lino
Amen! All treasures on earth are temporary...
Ligaya Puno
Thanks for this inspiring message nice to share.To God be the glory amen
Anfely Agarcio
Amen Praise God wow beautiful inspiring psalm message.. Glory to GOD
Ryan Mangulabnan
Life is full of pitfalls and snares, and we often make wrong choices, but it is comforting to know that no matter what trials we may be called upon to face, or what foolish choices we have made in the past, we can go to the Lord and ask Him for godly insight and spiritual understanding, and He has promised to give us all that is needed for the task. How much we all need God’s heavenly wisdom in the tests and trials of life’s disappointments and difficulties, which are so much a part of our everyday lives. And we should never waste the circumstances of life, but ask for His wisdom as well.. so that we may grow in grace and spiritual understanding knowing that all things work together for good to those that love God and are fitting into His plan.
Gloria Kanick
My sister who is blind was asked by a priest in her Nursing facility, how do you walk ? She answered ,"By Faith and not by Sight". She now has Covid.
Vangie Lopez
Thank you Lord Jesus for your Amazing Love Amen. Because about the Typhoon in My Country's Philippines everyday I need to believing me in loving caring God in my life for my safe in life, ??????? in Jesus name Amen. God bless everyone Amen.
Smithsmith Deedee
When I did lost everything and even turned away from the Lord but now everyday is a new to keep getting up and do harder ? ?
Lolita Guerra
With the lord everything is possible he will give you everything you need amen
Margaret Gordon
I believe that Isaiah 53 prophesy what Jesus was going to suffer for all mankind forgiveness for sin and by His stripes we are healed Jesus fulfilled it In the gospels,Peter saw Jesus suffered and died on the cross after Jesus was beaten and whipped with stripes on his back and Peter wrote in1Peter 2:24. So I believe, and I was healed from a lot of hereditary diseases. He also forgive us all our sins. Praise the Lord.
Michelle-Daigle Cannon
Yes Amen! Thank you Lord!!??
Lorraine Martin
91 is my favorite psalms..Read every morning before starting my day..
Hope Reyes
Amen Hallelujah praise God Almighty in Jesus name.
Vernay Dabney
The REAL covid vaccine is already here and has been available for 2,000 years. It's the stripes of Jesus, by which we are healed, mixed with doses of the Word of God, marinated in the Blood of Jesus.
Antonia Fernandez
I have memorized Psalm 91 in its entirety along with my husband. It has been a source of strength and confidence for both of us. God healed me from a deadly disease, from asthma ,prediiabetes, Restored my marriage, remarried my husband and I have many more to share but these are more than enough to say that God is faithful to fulfill his promises. His promises are in Him yes and amen and He watches over his word to perform and there’s no word from Him that will fail. The stood on his promise, By his wounds , I am healed 1Peter 2:22 and amen am I he all d who heals you, Exodus 15:26. I’m sharing th we with you so that God will be glorified and others may hope and trust that God is our healer and he listens. He is alive and still healing and restoring lives. Brothers and sisters, be blessed! I’m praying that God will have His way in all of us because He knows what’s .
Alice Itta
AMEN... Thanks.. Be the word of the Lord
Pam Babcock
PLEASE PRAY FOR AMERICA ??
Jamie Hafele
God thank you for your protection and favor. You are an amazing and worthy God and I thank you for the life I have today. In Jesus name I pray Amen
Barbara Jeaux Nichols
I love this!
Drusilla Claspill
Thank you Lord! The entire chapter of Psalm 91 says it all! What a good, good Father!
Howard Matewa
What a marvelous and AWESOME GOD we have in the Mighty name of JESUS CHRIST OF NAZARETH. He is the finite and infinite of all time. My testimonies are just too numerous to share. Really God has done so many wonders and blessings to my life that at times I dont believe what God has done for me.
Ling Thong
Thank you Lord for your word and blessed assurance!
Ezebuiro Jane Chinwe
That is my favorite chapter and also thanking God for his divine protection towards me and my family... Ameeeeeeeeeeeen and Ameeeeeeeeeeeen
Rodah Sivirike
powerful message indeed
Benedict Xavier X
Dear Friend's In Christ, We should be glad that the Almighty god has assured us the comfort to trust in him through Psalm 91,. Friends as a believer in Christ we know that God almighty is there to uphold us in all aspects of "life". Let's all Pray to God The Holy Trinity, in this pandemic to forgive each one of us and give us the blessed days that was promised to the mankind. Amen.. Thanks be to God The Holy Trinity..
Wisdom Siqhoza
I thank the Almighty for establishing protection around me at all times and for all occasions.
Wisdom Siqhoza
Psalm91 is aPsalm of Assurance ofGod'sprotection.
I truly thankful for you taught Psalm 91. It will become an main scripture i will three time in a day. Thank you for explaining each verse. These help me to make the right application. Thank you!
Shirley
I have been reading this scriptures for sometime giving God all glory & all praises thanking him for keeping me & all my family & my friends safe asking the Lord to bless the peoples all over the universe I ready it every day & at night thanks you so my my heavenly father thank you so much holy man may god be with everyone I love you my father in heaven you have been amazing to me glory be to the King
Sandra Webster
Oh Loed my Saviour and God , I trust in you to save me each day from the evils that lurk to hinder and destroy body soul and Spirit but not mine because your are my protector I love serve and worship you thank you for loving me also praise be my motto every day unto you my God and my King thank you Jesus