October 20 - Psalm 91

October 20 - Psalm 91: 1-16

In the first two verses, David expresses the character of God using 4 different names. Most High - Elyon, also found in Genesis 14:17-20 and Isaiah 14:13-14; Almighty (or even God of the mountain)- El Shaddai, also found in Genesis 17:1; The Lord - Yahweh, first found in Genesis 2:4, refers to God's salvation; God - Elohim, refers to God's power and might, we meet Elohim in Genesis 1:1.

The rest of this Psalm calls out for help, but also for refuge and protection. Who better to offer that than the Lord who is powerful and mighty (Elohim), our Savior (Yahweh), Most High (over all else - El Elyon) and the Almighty (El Shaddai)).

In Psalm 91:3, the fowler's snare is a spring-type net. The bird steps on it and a net springs up around it. This type of snare is often used to describe dangers that we face in scripture (Job 18:8–10, Psalm 140:4, Psalm 124:7, 141:9, and 142:3; Proverbs 7:23 and 22:5; Hosea 9:8, and Amos 3:5.)

The Psalmist then uses a literary ploy (Psalm 91:3-4) by describing the Lord with feathers and wings. He will not be entrapped by a snare, in fact, he will protect us from those very dangers. The shield and the rampart will protect us from every danger (Psalm 91:5-8).

Psalm 91:11-12 is a familiar passage. Even Satan knows scripture and used this when Jesus was in the wilderness (Matthew 4:5-7) to tempt Him.

The lion and the snake found in Psalm 91:13 represent two very different attacks upon us: the lion represents great physical strength and the snake represents the conniving evil of the mind. With God's help, we can withstand both.

The end of this Psalm brings 8 promises from God (Psalm 91:14-16). 1. Rescue, 2. Protection, 3. Answer (response), 4. Companionship, 5. Deliverance, 6. Honor, 7. Long life, 8. Salvation. Why does God promise these things ... because we love Him.

I do love Him!