Psalm 91 is a psalm of blessing that poetically articulates the covenant blessings promised in Deuteronomy 28. The blessings are pronounced upon those who bring themselves under the authority of Yahweh. This authority provides a sure covering that makes the child of God invulnerable. The question is, invulnerable to what? Does this psalm promise us freedom from any and every misfortune? It is important to read the list of misfortunes described here in terms of the curses for disobedience promised in Deuteronomy 28-29. The psalm is saying that, if we remain under the protective covering of God’s authority, we will remain in God’s favour. The access we have to God’s covering and favour is given to us by grace. But we are exhorted throughout the Bible to be vigilant about remaining under this covering. If we do remain here, we will be secure in God’s purpose. The psalm is not giving us a blanket guarantee against all hardship in life. Jesus, on the contrary, assured his disciples that they would have trouble in this world (John 16:33). But in the same verse he also tells them that they can have peace. How? Because—and this is what this psalm promises—no matter what happens, if we remain under God’s covering, these troubles will not thwart the purpose of God for us. So, as the psalm says, “no disaster will come near your tent”. Momentary trouble is no disaster to God’s purpose. Even death is no disaster in God’s plan. For death is now merely the gateway to eternal life for those who love God. There is no greater security than this.
Entrust yourself and your circumstances to God.
Read Psalm 91
