Bible Verse

Psalm 91:1-2

A psalm of confidence in God's protection, possibly written during a time of danger or national crisis.

"Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'"

— Psalm 91:1-2 (NIV)

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Other Translations

"He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, 'My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'"

— ESV

"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust."

— KJV

"Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the LORD: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust him."

— NLT

Understanding the Context

Book Context

Psalm 91 is a song of trust in God's protection. It describes the security available to those who make God their refuge and dwelling place.

Historical Background

Author uncertain (possibly Moses or David). Used by God's people throughout history during war, plague, persecution, and personal danger as a declaration of trust in divine protection.

Verse-by-Verse Breakdown

"Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High"

'Dwells' means to remain, abide, make one's home. This is continuous relationship, not occasional visits. 'Shelter' implies protection. 'Most High' (Hebrew: Elyon) emphasizes God's supreme sovereignty over all.

"will rest in the shadow of the Almighty"

'Shadow' suggests closeness—you're in someone's shadow when near them. 'Almighty' (Shaddai) means all-powerful, sufficient. Resting in God's shadow means living in His protective presence, safe under His wings.

"I will say of the LORD, 'He is my refuge and my fortress'"

Personal declaration of trust. 'Refuge' is a place to flee for safety. 'Fortress' is a stronghold against enemies. Both images convey complete protection. This shifts from third person to first—making it personal.

"my God, in whom I trust"

'My God' expresses personal relationship. 'Trust' (batach) means confident reliance. This isn't theoretical theology but lived faith—actively trusting God for protection and provision.

Key Themes

God as refugeDivine protectionTrust in dangerGod's sovereigntyAbiding in God

Applying This Verse to Your Life

  1. 1

    Make God your dwelling place through consistent prayer, Scripture, and worship—not just crisis visits.

  2. 2

    Consciously place yourself under God's protection daily, trusting His sovereign care.

  3. 3

    Verbally declare God as your refuge, strengthening your faith through confession.

  4. 4

    Rest in God's presence rather than anxiously trying to protect yourself.

  5. 5

    Share this psalm with others facing danger, illness, or fear, pointing them to God's shelter.

Questions for Reflection

  • Are you dwelling in God's presence or just visiting occasionally?
  • What fears or dangers do you need to bring under the shelter of the Most High?
  • How can you practically 'rest in the shadow of the Almighty' today?
  • What would it look like to truly make God your refuge and fortress?

Related Scripture

Psalm 46:1

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

Proverbs 18:10

"The name of the LORD is a fortified tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."

Deuteronomy 33:27

"The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms."

Psalm 57:1

"Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings."

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