I would like to encourage you to read Psalm 91 before, during and after you study the following devotion. Psalm 91 overflows with how Abba Father God protects and assists us.
In Exodus 17:15 it says, ”And Moses built an altar and called the name of it, ’The LORD is my banner’ Jehovah Nissi .” “Jehovah Nissi” means that God protects and guides us. We see this very clearly in Psalm 91.
Two types of protection in Psalm 91 are in Verse 1 – “SHELTER,” a place for hiding and protection, and “SHADOW,” meaning presence and guidance. Verse 2 – “REFUGE,” a place of sanctuary, and “FORTRESS,” a place of security and protection.
God promises to protect us when we dwell/live with, and in Him. In His precious presence, we find peace during troubles, protection during persecution, and support as needed. The Psalmist in Ps. 91, uses the imagery of a bird covering its young with its feathers where we find safety, where nothing harms us and where we need not be afraid of any attacks, not even “plagues” = illnesses. Verses 4-6 God’s care is loving and sufficient for ALL our needs. He protects us day and night, which echoes Psalm 121 where it is written that “God watches over ALL our comings and goings.”
God protects the sheep of His flock, those who accept Him as LORD and God. He promises to command His angels, His messengers, to protect and “guard” us in ALL our ways. Verse 11
A relationship with our heavenly Father causes Him to rescue and protect us. Verses 14-16 summarise Abba’s protection. Place YOUR name where it says “he/him.” “Because he loves me,” says the LORD, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honour him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him my salvation.”
Loving precious Father God, thank You that Your eyes are ever upon me and that Your heart forever loves me and longs to protect me day and night. Help me to love You as You deserve to be loved, to be thankful that You are closer to me than the very air I breathe. Thank You that no matter where I am, or what I do, you can always be with me, protecting and guiding me. I am Your little lamb, and You are my Good Shepherd. Please guide me daily to Your streams of living waters where I can find shelter and rest for my soul. I love You oh Lord, my strength, my grace, and my Hiding place.
Myrtle Turunen