◄ Psalm 91 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
You Are My Refuge and My Fortress 1He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.a 2I will say to the LORD, “You are my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” 3Surely He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler, and from the deadly plague. 4He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and rampart. 5You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, 6nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the calamity that destroys at noon. 7Though a thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand, no harm will come near you. 8You will only see it with your eyes and witness the punishment of the wicked. 9Because you have made the LORD your dwelling— my refuge, the Most High— 10no evil will befall you, no plague will approach your tent. 11For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. 12They will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.b 13You will tread on the lion and cobra; you will trample the young lion and serpent. 14“Because he loves Me, I will deliver him; because he knows My name, I will protect him. 15When he calls out to Me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble. I will deliver him and honor him. 16With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation.” Footnotes: 1 a Hebrew Shaddai 12 b Cited in Matthew 4:6 and Luke 4:10–11 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 91 Summary You Are My Refuge and My Fortress Verses 1–2 – Safe Shelter The opening words picture a believer taking up permanent residence in the “shelter of the Most High” and resting in the “shadow of the Almighty.” It is an intimate statement of trust: God Himself is the fortified home, and His presence overshadows every threat. Verses 3–4 – Delivering Wings God is portrayed as a Rescuer from hidden traps and deadly outbreaks. Like a mother bird He spreads protective wings: “His faithfulness is a shield and buckler.” The image blends tenderness and strength—soft feathers, solid armor—all found in the character of the Lord. Verses 5–8 – Fearless Nights and Days Four dangers sweep the clock: terror at night, arrows by day, pestilence in darkness, destruction at noon. Yet the one who trusts is told not to fear. Even mass casualties (“a thousand… ten thousand”) cannot breach the divine perimeter; the believer merely observes the downfall of the wicked. Verses 9–13 – Angelic Escort Because the Lord is chosen as a dwelling, “no plague will approach your tent.” Heaven’s guards are dispatched: “He will command His angels concerning you.” They prevent fatal missteps and empower victory over lions and serpents—symbols of violent and deceptive threats. Verses 14–16 – Divine Promise The voice switches to God Himself, sealing the psalm with eight promises: deliverance, protection, answered prayer, divine presence, rescue, honor, long life, and salvation. Every pledge is rooted in a love-bond: “Because he loves Me… because he knows My name.” Psalm 91, a magnificent piece of biblical poetry, unfurls the promises of God's unfailing protection and care for those who place their trust in Him. The Psalmist speaks eloquently of the assurance, safety, and peace that comes from dwelling in the presence of the Almighty. This psalm offers profound insights into faith's power and the promises reserved for those who seek refuge in God. Authorship and Setting Psalm 91 follows Psalm 90, which is attributed to Moses. Early Jewish tradition therefore credits Moses here as well, picturing Israel camped in the wilderness, surrounded by perils. Others see David writing during seasons of military threat. Either way, the psalm speaks to people on the move—tents pitched, enemies near, diseases real—yet covered by the Almighty. Key Words and Images • Shelter/Shadow (v. 1): A deep recess or secret place—safe from sun, storm, or soldier. • Shield and Buckler (v. 4): The large body shield and the small round buckler, covering every angle. • Terror/Arrow/Pestilence/Destruction (vv. 5-6): Human violence and natural plague are both included; God guards against both. • Lion and Cobra (v. 13): Powerful open attack and sly hidden strike—every form of danger. Historical and Archaeological Notes • Arrows: Iron-tipped shafts from the late Iron Age found in Judean sites match the daytime threat of verse 5. • Pestilence: Texts from Egypt and Mesopotamia describe sudden epidemics sweeping camps; verse 3 promises deliverance “from the deadly plague.” • Snare of the Fowler: Bird-catchers used baited traps made of reeds and string—an emblem of unseen plots. • Wings Imagery: Winged deities on Near-Eastern reliefs symbolized protection. The psalm answers with the living God’s wings (v. 4), echoing Exodus 19:4 and cherubim overshadowing the mercy seat (Exodus 25:20). The Role of Angels Verse 11 is one of Scripture’s clearest statements on angelic care: “He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.” Angels guided Israel (Exodus 23:20), surrounded Elisha (2 Kings 6:17), ministered to Jesus (Matthew 4:11), and serve believers today (Hebrews 1:14). Satan twisted verses 11-12 in the wilderness temptation (Matthew 4:5-6; Luke 4:10-11), but Jesus refused to test God, showing that promises are embraced through trust, not presumption. Messianic Echoes • The devil’s quotation of Psalm 91 to Jesus highlights its messianic undertone. • Verse 13—“You will tread on the lion and cobra”—finds fulfillment in Christ’s authority over demons (Luke 10:19) and ultimate victory over Satan (Romans 16:20). • The closing promise, “I will show him My salvation,” reaches its fullest expression in the cross and resurrection. Connections to Other Scriptures • Dwelling in God: Psalm 90:1; John 15:4. • Under His Wings: Ruth 2:12; Matthew 23:37. • Rescue from Trouble: Job 5:19; 2 Timothy 4:18. • Long Life Promise: Exodus 20:12; Proverbs 3:1-2. Spiritual Application: Trusting God in Crisis Psalm 91 does not promise a trouble-free life; it promises God’s nearness and final rescue. The imagery covers every hour, every threat, every outcome. In sickness, violence, or unseen schemes, believers anchor to the One described here. Fear fades when the heart is fixed on the Most High. Psalm 91 in Church History • Early Christians memorized it for courage during Roman persecutions. • During medieval plagues, monks copied it on parchment amulets. • Martin Luther called it “the sparkling jewel of comfort” while battling the Black Death. • Modern soldiers and medical workers often quote it in the field. Practical Takeaways • Make the Lord your permanent address—He is more than a weekend refuge. • Speak truth aloud as the psalmist does; declaring trust strengthens faith. • Remember both tenderness and toughness in God’s care—wings and armor. • Expect unseen help; angelic ministry is real even when unnoticed. • Read the psalm as conversation: verses 1-13 from the psalmist to us, verses 14-16 from God to the psalmist—and to all who love His name. Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. Proverbs 18:10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. Matthew 4:6 Reference to Psalm 91:11-12 during Jesus' temptation, highlighting the importance of rightly understanding Scripture. Romans 8:31 If God is for us, who can be against us? Teaching Points The Secret Place of the Most High He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. (Psalm 91:1) Emphasizes the importance of dwelling, not just visiting, in God's presence. The shadow of the Almighty signifies close proximity and protection. God as Our Refuge and Fortress I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.' (Psalm 91:2) Trust in God is foundational for experiencing His protection. God is depicted as both a refuge (a place of safety) and a fortress (a place of strength). Deliverance from Hidden Dangers Surely He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly plague. (Psalm 91:3) God protects from both seen and unseen dangers. The snare of the fowler represents traps set by enemies, while deadly plague signifies widespread threats. Divine Protection and Angelic Assistance For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. (Psalm 91:11) Assurance of angelic protection for those who walk in God's ways. Highlights the active role of angels in God's protective plan. Promises of Long Life and Salvation With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation. (Psalm 91:16) God's promise of longevity and ultimate salvation for those who love Him. Emphasizes the eternal perspective of God's protection. Practical Applications Cultivate a Habit of Dwelling in God's Presence Spend daily time in prayer and meditation on God's Word. Seek to live in constant awareness of God's presence. Declare Your Trust in God Verbally affirm your trust in God as your refuge and fortress. Share testimonies of God's protection with others to encourage their faith. Be Vigilant Against Spiritual Dangers Stay alert to spiritual traps and temptations. Rely on God's wisdom and guidance to navigate life's challenges. Invite God's Protection Over Your Life Pray for God's angels to guard you and your loved ones. Trust in God's sovereignty over every aspect of your life. People 1. The Most High (Elyon) Description: Refers to God as the supreme and exalted one. The term "Most High" emphasizes God's sovereignty and authority over all creation. In Hebrew, "Elyon" signifies the highest or most elevated, underscoring God's supreme position. 2. The Almighty (Shaddai) Description: Another name for God, highlighting His omnipotence and ability to protect and provide. "Shaddai" in Hebrew conveys the idea of God being all-powerful and sufficient, capable of meeting all needs. 3. The LORD (Yahweh) Description: The personal name of God, often associated with His covenant relationship with His people. "Yahweh" is the sacred name revealed to Moses, representing God's eternal and unchanging nature. 4. My God (Elohim) Description: A term used by the psalmist to express a personal relationship with God. "Elohim" is a plural form in Hebrew, often used to denote the majesty and fullness of God's nature. 5. The Psalmist (Implied as the Believer) Description: The individual who trusts in God and seeks refuge in Him. The psalmist speaks in the first person, representing any believer who places their faith in God's protection. 6. The Fowler (Implied Adversary) Description: Symbolically represents any enemy or danger that seeks to ensnare or harm the believer. The fowler is not a literal person but a metaphor for threats or traps set by adversaries. 7. The Angels Description: Heavenly beings sent by God to protect and minister to the believer. The psalm mentions that God commands His angels to guard the faithful in all their ways. 8. The Young Lion and the Serpent (Implied Adversaries) Description: Metaphorical representations of powerful and cunning threats. These creatures symbolize dangers that the believer will overcome through God's protection. In Psalm 91, the primary focus is on the relationship between God and the believer, with God being the protector and the believer being the one who trusts and takes refuge in Him. The psalm emphasizes God's faithfulness and the assurance of His protection against various forms of danger. Places 1. The Secret Place of the Most High This refers to a place of intimate fellowship and protection under God's care. The Hebrew term "סֵתֶר" (seter) implies a hidden or concealed place, emphasizing the safety and security found in God's presence. 2. The Shadow of the Almighty Symbolizing God's protective presence, this place is described using the Hebrew word "צֵל" (tsel), meaning shadow. It conveys the idea of being under God's watchful care and protection. 3. Refuge A place of safety and trust, "מַחְסֶה" (machseh) in Hebrew, indicating a shelter or place of hope where one can find security in God. 4. Fortress This term, "מְצוּדָה" (metsudah) in Hebrew, suggests a stronghold or fortified place, representing God's strength and defense against adversaries. 5. Dwelling The Hebrew word "מָעוֹן" (maon) is used here, meaning habitation or abode. It signifies a place where one resides, highlighting the idea of living continually in God's presence. Events 1. Dwelling in the Shelter of the Most High "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty." (Psalm 91:1) The Hebrew word for "dwells" is יָשַׁב (yashab), meaning to sit, remain, or inhabit. 2. Trust in God as Refuge and Fortress "I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'" (Psalm 91:2) "Refuge" is מַחְסֶה (machseh), indicating a place of safety or protection. 3. Deliverance from the Fowler’s Snare "Surely He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly plague." (Psalm 91:3) "Snare" is פַּח (pach), referring to a trap or a net. 4. Protection Under His Wings "He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and rampart." (Psalm 91:4) "Wings" is כָּנָף (kanaph), symbolizing protection and care. 5. Fearlessness in the Face of Danger "You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day," (Psalm 91:5) "Terror" is פַּחַד (pachad), meaning dread or fear. 6. Immunity from Plagues and Destruction "nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the calamity that destroys at noon." (Psalm 91:6) "Pestilence" is דֶּבֶר (deber), often referring to a plague or epidemic. 7. Witnessing the Punishment of the Wicked "A thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you. You will only see it with your eyes and witness the punishment of the wicked." (Psalm 91:7-8) "Punishment" is שִׁלּוּם (shillum), meaning recompense or reward. 8. Making the LORD Your Dwelling "Because you have made the LORD your dwelling—my refuge, the Most High—" (Psalm 91:9) "Dwelling" is מָעוֹן (maon), indicating a habitation or abode. 9. Angelic Protection "For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways." (Psalm 91:11) "Angels" is מַלְאָךְ (malak), meaning messengers or divine beings. 10. Treading on the Lion and Cobra "You will tread on the lion and cobra; you will trample the young lion and serpent." (Psalm 91:13) "Tread" is דָּרַךְ (darakh), meaning to walk or march over. 11. God’s Promise of Rescue and Honor "Because he loves Me, I will deliver him; because he knows My name, I will protect him." (Psalm 91:14) "Deliver" is פָּלַט (palat), meaning to escape or save. 12. Satisfaction with Long Life and Salvation "With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation." (Psalm 91:16) "Salvation" is יְשׁוּעָה (yeshuah), meaning deliverance or victory. Lessons from Psalm 91 1. God is Our Refuge and Fortress In a world filled with uncertainties, Psalm 91:2 reminds us, "I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'" This verse encourages us to lean on God as our ultimate protector. Just as a fortress provides safety from external threats, God offers us spiritual security and peace. Trusting in Him means we can face life's challenges with confidence, knowing we are under His divine protection. 2. Deliverance from Hidden Dangers Life is full of unseen perils, but Psalm 91:3 assures us, "Surely He will deliver you from the snare of the fowler and from the deadly plague." This verse highlights God's ability to rescue us from both physical and spiritual dangers. By staying close to Him, we can navigate life's hidden traps with wisdom and discernment, avoiding pitfalls that could lead us astray. 3. Divine Protection Under His Wings Psalm 91:4 paints a beautiful picture of God's care: "He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and rampart." Like a mother bird protecting her young, God shelters us with His love and faithfulness. This imagery reassures us that we are never alone; His presence is a constant source of comfort and strength. 4. Fearlessness in the Face of Adversity Fear can be paralyzing, but Psalm 91:5-6 encourages us, "You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the calamity that destroys at noon." With God by our side, we can face any adversity without fear. His promises give us the courage to stand firm, knowing that He is in control. 5. Witnessing God's Justice In a world where injustice often prevails, Psalm 91:8 offers hope: "You will only see it with your eyes and witness the punishment of the wicked." This verse reassures us that God's justice will ultimately prevail. While we may not always see it immediately, we can trust that He will right every wrong in His perfect timing. 6. Assurance of Divine Protection Psalm 91:10 provides a powerful promise: "No evil will befall you, no plague will approach your tent." This assurance of divine protection is a reminder that God is actively involved in our lives. By dwelling in His presence, we can experience His peace and protection, even in the midst of life's storms. 7. Angelic Assistance God's care extends beyond what we can see. Psalm 91:11-12 tells us, "For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. They will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone." This divine assistance is a testament to God's love and concern for our well-being, providing us with unseen support and guidance. 8. Victory Over Evil Psalm 91:13 declares, "You will tread on the lion and cobra; you will trample the young lion and serpent." This verse symbolizes victory over evil forces. With God's strength, we can overcome any spiritual battles we face, standing firm in our faith and resisting the enemy's schemes. 9. God's Promise of Deliverance In Psalm 91:14, God promises, "Because he loves Me, I will deliver him; because he knows My name, I will protect him." This verse highlights the importance of a personal relationship with God. By loving and knowing Him, we invite His deliverance and protection into our lives, experiencing His faithfulness firsthand. 10. Assurance of Salvation and Long Life The psalm concludes with a powerful promise in Psalm 91:16: "With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation." This assurance of salvation and a fulfilling life is a reminder of God's eternal promises. By trusting in Him, we can look forward to a future filled with hope and the ultimate joy of eternal life with our Savior. Topics 1. Divine Protection and Refuge Psalm 91 begins with the assurance of God's protection for those who dwell in His presence. The Hebrew word "סֵתֶר" (seter) is used, meaning "secret place" or "shelter," emphasizing the intimate and secure relationship between the believer and God. The verse states, "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty" (Psalm 91:1). 2. Trust in God's Faithfulness The psalmist expresses trust in God's faithfulness as a shield and rampart. The Hebrew word "אֱמוּנָה" (emunah) is used, meaning "faithfulness" or "truth," highlighting God's reliability. "His faithfulness is a shield and rampart" (Psalm 91:4). 3. Deliverance from Fear and Danger The psalm describes deliverance from various fears and dangers, including terror, arrows, and pestilence. The imagery used conveys God's comprehensive protection over His people. "You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day" (Psalm 91:5). 4. Angelic Guardianship God commands His angels to guard His people, a promise of divine intervention and care. The Hebrew word "מַלְאָךְ" (malak) refers to "angel" or "messenger," indicating God's use of heavenly beings to protect believers. "For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways" (Psalm 91:11). 5. Victory over Evil The psalm assures believers of victory over evil forces, symbolized by the lion and the serpent. This imagery represents overcoming powerful and deceitful adversaries. "You will tread on the lion and cobra; you will trample the young lion and serpent" (Psalm 91:13). 6. God's Promise of Salvation and Long Life The psalm concludes with God's promise of deliverance, honor, and long life to those who love Him. The Hebrew word "יָשַׁע" (yasha) is used, meaning "to save" or "to deliver," emphasizing God's commitment to the salvation of His people. "With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation" (Psalm 91:16). Themes 1. Divine Protection Psalm 91 emphasizes God's protection over those who trust in Him. The psalm begins with the assurance that those who dwell "in the shelter of the Most High" will find rest "in the shadow of the Almighty" (Psalm 91:1). The Hebrew word for "shelter" (סֵתֶר, ^seter^) implies a secret or hidden place, indicating a secure refuge provided by God. 2. Deliverance from Fear The psalm addresses deliverance from various fears, including the "terror of the night" and the "arrow that flies by day" (Psalm 91:5). The Hebrew word for "terror" (פַּחַד, ^pachad^) suggests a sudden, overwhelming fear, which God promises to protect His people from. 3. Protection from Plagues and Pestilence The psalm assures believers of protection from deadly diseases, stating, "He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and rampart" (Psalm 91:4). The Hebrew term for "pestilence" (דֶּבֶר, ^deber^) refers to a devastating plague, highlighting God's power to safeguard His people from widespread calamities. 4. Angelic Guardianship God commands His angels to guard His faithful, as stated, "For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways" (Psalm 91:11). The Hebrew word for "angels" (מַלְאָכִים, ^mal'akhim^) signifies messengers or agents of God, emphasizing divine intervention and protection. 5. Victory over Evil The psalm promises triumph over evil forces, declaring, "You will tread on the lion and cobra; you will trample the young lion and serpent" (Psalm 91:13). The imagery of dangerous animals symbolizes threats and adversities, with the assurance of victory through God's power. 6. God's Faithfulness and Love The psalm highlights God's faithfulness and love towards those who love Him, stating, "Because he loves Me, I will deliver him; because he knows My name, I will protect him" (Psalm 91:14). The Hebrew word for "love" (חָשַׁק, ^chashaq^) conveys a deep, affectionate attachment, underscoring the relational aspect of God's protection. 7. Promise of Salvation and Long Life The psalm concludes with a promise of salvation and longevity for those who trust in God: "With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation" (Psalm 91:16). The Hebrew word for "salvation" (יְשׁוּעָה, ^yeshu'ah^) signifies deliverance and victory, encapsulating the ultimate assurance of God's saving power. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Protection Thank God for His constant protection and faithfulness. Praise Him for being your refuge and fortress. Trust and Faith Pray for increased trust in God's promises and His protective power. Ask for faith to overcome fear and anxiety. Protection for Loved Ones Pray for God's protection over your family and friends. Ask for His angels to guard them in all their ways. Wisdom and Discernment Seek God's wisdom to recognize and avoid spiritual dangers. Pray for discernment to make decisions aligned with His will. As we conclude this study, may Psalm 91 inspire you to seek the shelter of the Most High and rest in the assurance of His unfailing protection. Answering Tough Questions 1. How do we reconcile Psalm 91:7 with the countless believers throughout history who have suffered widespread destruction and calamities? 2. Is there any historical or archaeological evidence supporting Psalm 91:10 that faithful individuals experienced literal immunity from disasters? 3. Psalm 91:11–12 mentions angels providing physical protection; how does that claim hold up against modern scientific understanding of natural events? 4. In light of biblical accounts where the righteous do suffer (e.g., Job), does Psalm 91 contradict other Scriptures regarding God’s protection? 5. Psalm 91:13 states believers will trample on lions and snakes; is this to be taken literally, and if so, why does no historical record confirm such extraordinary feats? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Psalm 91 define the concept of 'refuge'? How can you seek this refuge in your daily life? 2. What specific fears or dangers are mentioned in this Psalm? How does this translate to modern-day fears or anxieties you might face? 3. How can the imagery used in Psalm 91 (such as the 'fowler's snare' and 'deadly pestilence') be interpreted in today's context? 4. Reflect on the assurance given in verses 9-13. How can you apply this faith and assurance in the face of life's challenges? 5. In verses 14-16, God makes direct promises to those who love Him. What do these promises mean to you personally? 6. How does the promise of God's protection in Psalm 91 provide comfort in difficult times? 7. In what ways can Psalm 91 guide you in building a deeper, more personal relationship with God? 8. What does it mean to 'dwell in the secret place of the Most High' in the context of your daily life? 9. How does the theme of divine rescue and deliverance resonate with you? 10. How can the promises of longevity and salvation influence your perspective on life and afterlife? 11. How does the concept of 'knowing God's name' (v. 14) reflect on the personal relationship between God and believers? 12. How can you apply the reassurances of God's protection in Psalm 91 during times of global crisis, such as a pandemic? 13. How does Psalm 91 inspire you to strengthen your faith and trust in God's plan? 14. How can Psalm 91 be used as a prayer in moments of fear and uncertainty? 15. What role do angels play in Psalm 91, and what does that suggest about God’s care for believers? 16. How can you encourage others to find comfort in Psalm 91? 17. How does the language and imagery of Psalm 91 enhance its message of divine protection and care? 18. How does Psalm 91 influence your understanding of the nature of God? 19. In what ways can Psalm 91 guide you in handling anxiety and fears related to the future? 20. What actions can you take today to dwell in the 'shelter of the Almighty' as described in Psalm 91? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions