Psalm 91:1-16
Q.1. How should God’s people interpret the promises of protection in the midst of trials? – (Ps.91:1-10)
At Mount Gerizim, Israel had special promises given to protect them from their enemies and diseases, if they obeyed the terms of the Covenant (Deut.28:1-14). The promises in this Psalm apply when – you have made the Lord your refuge, even the Most High your dwelling place (Ps.91:9). Walking thus with the Lord means – You will not be afraid of the terror by night or of the arrow that flies by day; of the pestilence that stalks in darkness, or of the destruction that lays waste at noon (Ps.91:5-6).God, through the Psalmist, made some definitive promises – a thousand may fall at your side and ten thousand at your right hand, but it shall not approach you … no evil will befall you, nor will any plague come near your tent (Ps.91:7 & 9). If taken to extremes, such understanding would lead to unkind thinking towards those afflicted (see Q.2). These promises should be applied as an inspiration for those who are abiding in Christ and trusting that God’s will be done. The same God Who allowed Stephen and James to be martyred, delivered Peter out of prison (Acts 7:59-60; 12:2 & 10-11).
Q.2. How did Jesus understand the promise of protection given in this Psalm 91:11-12 when being tempted by Satan? – (Ps.91:11-12)
The promise of angelic protection and provision was repeated in the New Testament (Mt.18:10-11; Heb.1:14). It is a precious reality, that we are constantly under divine protection (c.f. Ps.34:7). However, Jesus, commenting on Ps.91:11-12, avoided an extreme interpretation by drawing attention to the over-riding principle – … it is written, you shall not put the Lord your God to the test (Mt.4:7). Jesus made it clear that God’s protection through trials may be forfeited if we step outside His will (Mt.4:5-7).
Q.3. How does abiding in God help us to prevail through trials? What does God promise those who rely on Him? – (Ps.91:1-2, 14-16)
The believer gains his greatest protection when he stays closely connected to Christ, while walking in the light of His Word. It is for the one – who dwells in the shelter of the Most-High … and therefore – abides in the shadow of the almighty (Ps.91:1). It is for the one who declares that his trust is in the Lord (Ps.91:2). To such, God promised – 14 Because he has loved Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him securely on high, because he has known My name. 15 He will call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him and honour him. 16 With a long life I will satisfy him and let him see My salvation (Ps.91:14-16). Facing the future is different for those who look to God.