Suggested Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 32-34; Psalm 91
Devotional Thought:
Title: “The Wonderful Security for the Godly.”
Psalm 91 is one of the most cheering and comforting Psalms. Mature believers, as well as the sick and suffering saints, often request that this psalm be read to them. This Psalm is full of encouragement and promises. This Psalm can be outlined in a specific way to encourage the mature Christian that seeks to serve the Lord faithfully. Verses 1-8 state the provisions for the godly. Verses 9-13 confirm the divine protection over the godly. Verses 14-16 teach the final precious promises for the godly. I want to zero in on the first part of this wonderful Psalm as we think of the security that is provided by our great God. When Dr. Ollila first counseled me, he encouraged me to make a biography of God from the Psalms. I have benefitted from that study for my whole life. I have had many others do the same and was greatly helped by the truths that are wrapped tightly in the names of God. The godly man is at home, dwelling in quietness and resting in the intimacy of God’s presence. He has discovered the greatness of God, calling Him “The Most High” and “The Almighty.” How privileged was Abraham to learn these titles, first from Melchizedek and then from God Himself. El Elyon was the Most High God, the possessor of heaven and earth who could give everything to the man who refused the offer of reward from the King of Sodom. El Shaddai was the Almighty who gave a promise of the impossible to the aged Abraham, “Father of a multitude.” Living under the cover of the Most High and the shadow of the Almighty are still a safe resort for the godly man. “Under (His) shadow” suggests the image of a mother-bird with her young sheltering beneath her wings, as again the author mentions it in vs. 4, a secret place indeed. “I will say of the LORD…” This is the powerful name Jehovah, which the author uses again in vs. 9. It is the name of the ever-existent, all-sufficient One who lives in an eternal present, unaffected by past or future, “Him which is, and which was, and which is to come…” (Rev 1:4) What security is this, to be sheltered in the secret place of such a marvelous God? With yet another incredible title the Psalmist says, “My refuge and my fortress: my God.” This is Elohim, the name of the Mighty One. In Him the saint has found a refuge and a fortress, one in whom he can confide and trust. The metaphor has changed, but the theme remains the same. Not simply dwelling “under the shadow,” but resorting to a strong fortress, a tower of defense, safe from the assaults of the enemy. I remember in fifth grade I had to memorize this Psalm, of which I can still quote large portions of this wonderful chapter. I find myself quoting it in times of pressure, frustration, or fear. It is a great comfort to know that my great God is in control and I am safely secure in the everlasting arms of my Savior.
Personal Prayer Requests:
- Lord, please help me to never doubt in the dark moments what you have so clearly revealed about yourself in the light.
- Lord, thank you for always being present with me in every situation. I am so thankful that I do not have to try to live this life on my own, but that you are with me as my Shepherd.
- Lord, please help me to walk as a godly man, always striving to bring glory to your name.