Insight into Psalm 91 KJV - Trust in God's Protection and Deliverance

An Overview of Psalm 91 KJV

Psalm 91 is one of the most well-known and beloved psalms in the Bible. In the King James Version (KJV), this psalm is a beautiful expression of trust in God's protection. The psalmist describes being sheltered by God's wings and finding refuge in Him. Key themes in this psalm include God's faithfulness, the security of abiding in God, and being rescued from danger.

Background of Psalm 91

Psalm 91 is attributed to an unknown author. Some scholars believe Moses may have written this psalm, but there is no definitive evidence. The psalm is titled "A Prayer of Moses the man of God." This could indicate it was written by Moses, was about Moses, or was written for use by Moses.

In the KJV Bible, Psalm 91 is categorized as one of the psalms of trust. It expresses steadfast faith and confidence in God even in times of danger. The setting may involve threats from pestilence, terror, war, or demonic forces. God is depicted as a shelter, a refuge, and deliverer for those who trust in Him.

Outline of Main Themes

Some of the main themes covered in Psalm 91 KJV include:

• God's Protection - Describes being covered by God's wings and finding refuge in the shadow of the Almighty.
• Deliverance from Harm - Promises that God will deliver from deadly pestilence, terror, and traps.
• Refuge and Safety - Expresses trust that God is a shelter, a refuge, and dwelling place.
• Answers to Prayer - Declares that God will answer when His name is called on for deliverance.
• Reward for Trust - Promises long life, salvation, and God's presence to those who trust.

Verse-by-Verse Summary

Here is a brief verse-by-verse overview of what Psalm 91 KJV covers:

Verses 1-2:

The psalmist finds rest, shelter, and shade in the protection of God Most High. He abides in the shadow of the Almighty.

Verses 3-8:

God's faithfulness shields from mortal danger and pestilence. He covers with protective feathers. There is no need to fear terror or wicked forces. God commands angels to guard in all ways.

Verses 9-10:

For those who make God their refuge, no evil will conquer them. Plagues will not approach their dwelling place.

Verses 11-13:

God commands angels to guard His followers in all their ways. They will lift them up lest they strike a stone. They will trample lions and serpents.

Verses 14-16:

Because His people know God's name and call on it, He will deliver them, be with them in trouble, and reward their trust in Him.

Psalm 91 KJV Text

Here is the full text of Psalm 91 from the King James Version:

1 He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

2 I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

3 Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.

4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

5 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

6 Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

7 A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

8 Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.

9 Because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;

10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.

13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.

14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.

16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

Analysis of Key Verses

There are several very significant verses in Psalm 91 KJV that are worth looking at more closely:

Verse 1:

"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty."

This verse establishes the protection received by those who stay close to God and make Him their shelter. The terms "most High" and "Almighty" express God's supreme power and authority over all things.

Verse 2:

"I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust."

This verse makes a personal declaration of faith in God alone as the psalmist's place of security and source of trust.

Verse 14:

"Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name."

This highlights God's care and deliverance for those who love Him. It connects knowing God's name with receiving His salvation.

Verse 15:

"He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him."

Calling on God and receiving His answer is a major theme. He pledges to be present in trouble and bring deliverance.

Applying Psalm 91 KJV

Psalm 91 has great relevance for believers today. Reflecting on this psalm can:

• Deepen trust in God's love and protection
• Inspire us to draw close to God in prayer
• Give us courage to face life's dangers
• Remind us of God's faithfulness and sovereignty
• Fill us with gratitude for God's salvation

Believers can pray Psalm 91 for themselves and others as a declaration of faith. It can be used as a shield against fear, sickness, evil, and all harm. Most importantly, it witnesses to the security, refuge, and victory we have through faith in Jesus Christ.

FAQs

Who wrote Psalm 91?

The author of Psalm 91 is unknown. Some scholars believe it may have been written by Moses, but there is no definitive evidence. The psalm is attributed to "Moses the man of God" which could mean it was written by, about, or for Moses.

What is the setting of Psalm 91?

Psalm 91 seems to be written in response to threats from pestilence, terror, war, and demonic forces. God is depicted as a source of refuge and deliverance from mortal danger.

What are the key themes in Psalm 91?

Major themes include God's protection, deliverance from harm, finding refuge in Him, reward for trust, and answering prayer. It expresses confidence in God's faithfulness.

How is Psalm 91 applicable today?

Psalm 91 still provides great assurance of God's love, protection, and salvation for believers today. It can give courage, deepen faith, inspire prayer, and fill us with gratitude.

Why is Psalm 91 so beloved?

Psalm 91 powerfully proclaims God's ability and willingness to protect and deliver those who abide in Him. Its poetic images and promises have given comfort and hope throughout the ages.