Psalm 91 - the Faithfulness of God

Along with Psalm 90, this beautiful promise is attributed to Moses, but whoever the human author, it is inspired by the Most High to give peace and assurance to those who take refuge in Him.

Vs 4: His faithfulness is a shield.
Paul spoke of the shield of faith as part of our armor in the fight against evil. (Ephesians 6:16) Here in this psalm we see that the shield is based on the faithfulness of God not on the strength of our faith. His faithfulness is a shield - our faith and trust only need to rest in His faithfulness.

We have an example of this in the account of the devil's tempting Jesus/Yeshua in the wilderness. (Matthew 4:5-7) The devil, quoting Psalm 91:11-12, suggested that Jesus/Yeshua throw himself down because God would protect Him.  Jesus/Yeshua, knowing the Father's faithfulness, did not have to test Him.

The devil tried to move Jesus/Yeshua from His rest by prefacing his suggestion with, "If you are the Son of God."  The Father had already said He was at the Jordan after He came to be baptized by John. (Matthew 3:13-17)

Remember , "The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God" (Romans 8:16)

Vs 13: Tread upon the lion and cobra
Again this promise is based on the Father's Faithfulness not the strength of our faith. We only need to remain in His refuge, "If you make the Most High your dwelling."

The difference can be seen between Paul's encounter with the viper (Acts 28:1-6) and the Snake Handlers of the Appalachian.  They misunderstand the verses in Mark and Luke and actively search out poisonous snakes to prove the faithfulness of God through the strength of their own faith. (Mark 16:17-18; Luke 10:19)

Created 7 months ago