“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.”
Psalm 91:1-2 KJV
This week, we will study Psalm 91 and spend time unearthing all the beauty and wonder in its 16 verses. Psalm 91 has been a great source of strength in my life. In moments of uncertainty and confusion, I have often returned to those familiar scriptures. I am so excited to learn alongside all of you!
I have spent time studying and researching for this week. Much of the information comes from Bible Hub, Blue Letter Bible, and Webster’s Dictionary 1828.
To begin, let’s dig into the original translations of a few words that stand out to me.
DWELL / yashab / to sit, remain, inhabit
The concept of dwelling was an important piece of ancient Hebrew culture. Dwelling was often related to a person’s identity and their security. To dwell in a land was to have a place of belonging and security.
According to Webster’s 1828, dwell “imports a residence of some continuance. We use abide for the resting of a night or an hour; but we never say, he dwelt in a place a day or a night.”
The Pulpit Commentary reads “He who has his thoughts always on God is said to “dwell in him” – to “make his abode with him” – to “sit down in his secret place.” He has the Almighty, as it were, for his constant companion.”
SHELTER / sether / a covering, a hiding place, secrecy
WILL ABIDE / lun or lin / to lodge, pass the night, endure, remain
SHADOW / tsel / shade, often used metaphorically to describe protection, transience, or the fleeting nature of life.
In the harsh climates of ancient Near Eastern, shade was a sought after refuge, thus making it a significant symbol of the time.
REFUGE / machaseh or machseh / shelter
Webster’s 1828: “That which shelters or protects from danger, distress or calamity; a strong hold which protects by its strength, or a sanctuary which secures safety by its sacredness; any place inaccessible to an enemy.”
FORTRESS / metsudah / a fastness, stronghold, an inaccessible place
TRUST / batach / rely, be confident, feel secure
This verse requires something from us. I must make my life a living sacrifice, and adopt the lifestyle of continually living in God’s presence. This verse speaks not of a fleeting moment of surrender, but rather an unceasing commitment to God and the things of God.
Matthew Henry’s Commentary says this regarding Psalm 91:1 “Wisdom shall keep them from being afraid without cause, and faith shall keep them from being unduly afraid. Whatever is done, our heavenly Father’s will is done; and we have no reason to fear.”
If I make my home with God, then I am guaranteed divine safety and rest in His shadow. Safety won’t always look like what we perceive safety to be, but nonetheless, we are safe in His will and plan.
I echo the words of the Psalmist, I will say of the Lord! He has been better than good to me. He has sustained me, covered me, and fought on my behalf. He is my refuge and strength, and I trust in His character and faithfulness.
