Psalm 91:1–4, 9–11, 14–16

Bible Studies for Life 
Assistant to the President for Church Relations, Samford University

The Shelter of God’s Protection

Psalm 91:1–4, 9–11, 14–16

The writer of this Psalm is not known though some have speculated it was Moses because of the similarities to Psalm 90. However, this is unlikely. The two Psalms are likely placed together because of similar themes. 

Psalm 91 is marked by three sections, each designated by the use of a pronoun. Verses 1–2 are marked by the pronoun “I” as the Psalmist expresses personal faith. In the second section (vv. 3–13) the pronoun is switched to “you,” noting the words are expressed to the reader. Finally verses 14 and 16 powerfully reveal God as the author as the pronoun becomes “I,” showing divine authorship. Here God speaks directly to the reader. Throughout this great Psalm there is one consistent theme — the protection of the Lord. God would not have His followers live in fear, but faith.

God’s faithfulness means we can count on His protection. (1–4)

Within these verses we have four names of God expressed. The Psalmist calls Him “The Most High” (El Elyon), “The Almighty” (El Shaddai), “The Lord” (Yahweh) and “my God” (Elohim). These are power-packed verses because the names express essential characteristics of God’s attributes. El Elyon speaks of His position (He alone is God). El Shaddai speaks of His power (no other is comparable). Yahweh speaks of His personal nature (He initiates the relationship). And Elohim speaks of His trustworthiness. Believers can stand on the strength and truth of those great titles. 

The Psalmist also gives four metaphors to express God’s protection. God will be our “shelter” and “shadow” (v. 1) and our “refuge” and “fortress” (v. 2). When we live in close fellowship with Him we can trust that He will be a great fortress for us. Verses 3–4 reveal the way He will protect us, both with tenderness and toughness. 

Two images are given: a mother bird and an armor bearer. God tenderly tucks us underneath His wing and gives us armored protection with toughness.

God’s sovereignty means He can protect us in all things. (9–11)

Some versions begin these verses with the word “if.” This seems to be in line with the original language. This puts a condition on the protection the psalm has promised. “If you make the Lord your refuge” (v. 9). The verse denotes a continual trusting, not merely running to Him when calamity strikes. 

Of course verse 11 is well known among believers. It also was well known to the devil as he attempted to tempt Jesus (Matt. 4:1–11). It is the only verse of Scripture actually quoted by the devil. Satan misquoted the verse leaving out the phrase, “in all your ways.” This was done intentionally to avoid the ways marked out by the Father. He knew that “in all your ways” would include the redemption of man which needed to be avoided in order for him to continually threaten believers with death and hell. 

Verse 11 also reminds the believer that we function in a spiritual realm. There is a spiritual battle taking place and it is a battle for our lives. While God gives angels charge over His children, we also are reminded by Paul in Ephesians 6:12 that we wrestle against “spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Believers should be comforted to know God has “charged” or “ordered” His angels to keep watch.

A loving relationship with God keeps us under His protection. (14–16)

To end this great Psalm, God affirms by giving declarative statements. These statements seal what the Psalmist has been saying. Notice the declarative statements — God promises to rescue, protect, deliver, answer and satisfy the one who makes God the object of his love. The promises of the Psalm are conditional; therefore the believer must examine his heart in order to receive them.