I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Psalm 91:2 KJV
The midrash or Jewish tradition of commentary on the bible indicates that Moses wrote Psalm 91 as he completed the Tabernacle in the desert following the exodus from Egypt. Others say that it is a Psalm of David. The Septuagint, the earliest translation of the text from Hebrew to Greek, gives David as the author. No title exists for this writing and so it is unclear who wrote it.
Whether written by David or Moses, Psalm 91 is a statement of faith in God’s protection and deliverance from danger. It focuses on the Lord providing safety and salvation for his people.
Verse two describes God as a refuge and a fortress. A refuge is a place for the weary to fall back to when in danger and distress. It is a safe place to find comfort and supply. A fortress is somewhat different. A fortress is a building designed for battle. It gives safety against an attacking enemy and a protective advantage to withstand an assault.
No Harm Will Overtake You
The Psalmist adds that he trusts in God. This is in contrast to trusting in oneself. There is a promise in Psalm 91:9-10 that says, “If you say, ‘The Lord is my refuge,’ and you make the Most High your dwelling, no harm will overtake you. NIV” This is supreme faith and trust in God whose power far exceeds our own or that of the enemy.
Jesus explains that obedience to the will of God proves our love for him. In John 14:15 he says, “If you love me, keep my commandments. WEB” Psalm 91:14 delivers a promise of protection in return for loving God as it says, “Because he has set his love on me, therefore I will deliver him. I will set him on high because he has known my name. WEB”
Prayer: “Father God, you are my refuge and my protector. I trust you with my life. Give me wisdom to understand your will and guide me to serve your purpose. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: When the Rooster Crows
