DEAR GOD: You Are Our Refuge & Fortress: Thank You!

Psalm 91 Prayer for Strong Protection from the Bible

 

Psalm 91, often referred to as the “Psalm of Protection,” is a profound source of comfort and assurance for many believers. It speaks of God’s providence and presence in the midst of danger and fear. When we reflect on this Psalm, we see how the LORD is in fact our Fortress and our ultimate Protector in all things, each day of our life and beyond.


The Refuge and Fortress

Psalm 91 opens with a powerful declaration of trust in God’s protection. “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1).

This verse seemingly invites us to consider our own relationship with God. Do we see Him as our refuge and fortress? In times of trouble, do we confidently seek His presence, believing that He will cover us with His wings?

The Promise of Deliverance

As the Psalm progresses, it promises deliverance from the “snare of the fowler” and from “deadly pestilence” (Psalm 91:3). Reflect on the times when you felt trapped or faced a situation that seemed insurmountable. Can you recall a moment when you experienced God’s deliverance?

Fearless in the Face of Night Terrors

Verse 5 assures us that we need not fear the terrors of the night or the arrow that flies by day. In our lives, these fears can manifest in many ways—perhaps as literal fear of the dark or metaphorically as the unknowns that lurk in our future. What are the ‘night terrors’ that you face, and how do you find peace?

A Thousand May Fall

The Psalmist writes, “A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you” (Psalm 91:7). This verse speaks to the protection God offers even when calamity seems to surround us. How does this promise shape your perspective on the trials you witness or experience?

The Angelic Charge

God’s care is so profound that He commands His angels to guard us in all our ways (Psalm 91:11). This Divine Guardianship is a testament to our value in God’s eyes. How does the knowledge of angelic protection influence your daily walk?

The Lion and the Serpent

The imagery of treading upon the lion and the serpent (Psalm 91:13) symbolizes triumph over powerful and cunning adversaries. What are the ‘lions’ and ‘serpents’ in your life, and how do you confront them with faith?

The Assurance of Salvation

The Psalm concludes with God’s voice, promising salvation to those who love Him (Psalm 91:14-16). It’s a powerful ending that reassures us of the ultimate victory we have in God. How does the assurance of salvation empower you to live boldly and righteously?


Concluding Thoughts

Psalm 91 is not just a set of verses to be recited; it’s a call to live with unshakeable faith in God’s protection and provision. It challenges us to reflect on our fears, our battles, and our salvation. As we ponder these truths, we find a wellspring of courage and peace that flows from trusting in the Almighty.

 “Dear Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude for the promises of Psalm 91. We ask for the faith to dwell in Your shelter and the courage to stand firm in the face of life’s challenges. May Your truth be our shield and rampart, and Your salvation our everlasting hope. In Jesus precious Holy name, we pray. Amen.”


Hopefully all of God’s Word will inspire you to find solace, and as we reflect upon Psalm 91 may we seek the presence of God as your ultimate refuge and strength….

DEAR GOD: Thank You For Handling The Evil In The World~

God's protection -Franz Hasel and Nicholai Panchuk (Part 2 of 2) - YouTube

Fret not yourself because of evildoers; be not envious of wrongdoers! For they will soon fade like the grass
and wither like the green herb. Trust in the Lord and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord,
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
Psalm 37:1-4 (ESV)

Psalm 37 is a wisdom psalm that teaches us how to trust in God and live righteously in a world where the wicked seem to prosper and flourish without repercussions. Suffice to say, the LORD has eyes and ears over all in the Universe, and He knows what and who is accountable for evildoings, and He will hold them to judgement eventually.

The main theme of the psalm is to not fret or be envious of the evildoers, but to delight in the Lord and commit our ways to Him. The psalmist assures us that God will reward the righteous and punish the wicked in His time and His way. And everything is in His control. No matter how “out of control” the world seems to be at any given time. The LORD is watching and weighing in on all circumstances and reprehensible acts of violence, iniquities, debauchery, evil lusts and deeds, and all else that are an abominable in His righteous eyes and ways.

Some verses to bring encouragement to those who are in despair at this moment will follow. May they enlighten you, fill you with hope and build your confidence in the LORD, knowing He goes before us, and the battle is the LORDS. Amen.

Here is a breakdown of some of the verses in Psalm 37.

  • Verse 1: Do not fret because of evildoers, Do not be envious of wrongdoers. This verse tells us to avoid anxiety and jealousy when we see the wicked prospering. Fretting and envying only leads to anger, bitterness, and sin. Instead, we should focus on God and His promises.
  • Verse 4: Delight yourself in the LORD; And He will give you the desires of your heart. This verse tells us to find our joy and satisfaction in God, not in the things of the world. When we delight in God, He will align our desires with His will and grant them according to His wisdom and love.
  • Verse 5: Commit your way to the LORD, Trust also in Him, and He will do it. This verse tells us to surrender our plans and actions to God, and to rely on Him to accomplish His purposes. When we commit our way to God, He will guide our steps and bless our endeavors.
  • Verse 7: Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes. This verse tells us to be still and trust in God’s sovereignty and justice. We should not worry or be impatient when we see the wicked succeeding, because God will eventually bring them to account.
  • Verse 23: The steps of a man are established by the LORD, And He delights in his way. This verse tells us that God ordains and directs the path of the righteous, and He takes pleasure in their obedience. God is not indifferent or distant from His people, but He is intimately involved and interested in their lives.
  • Verse 39: But the salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; He is their strength in time of trouble. This verse tells us that God is the source and protector of the righteous. He delivers them from their enemies and supports them in their difficulties. God is faithful and powerful to save those who trust in Him.

Some other scriptures that relate to the message of Psalm 37 that are there for our eyes and for us to grow strong in the fact of God’s Omnipotence are the following:

  • Proverbs 3:5-6: Trust in the LORD with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He will make your paths straight.
  • Matthew 6:33: But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
  • Romans 8:28: And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.Hebrews 10:36-37: For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised. FOR YET IN A VERY LITTLE WHILE, HE WHO IS COMING WILL COME, AND WILL NOT DELAY.
  • 1 Peter 5:6-7: Therefore, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

Do these verses bring immediate comfort to your souls? Are you trusting God in the way He wants you to? Do you love Him fully? What are some of the ways these verses help you and your loved ones in troubled times?

“Father, I am filled with confidence knowing You are over me in all I do, I am humbly and securely filled with peace and assurance that You alone are the One in complete control. Not me, or anyone else, but You, may I submit to Your hands of mercy, and may I be guided by Your voice alone, may I always realize that no matter how the evil seem to be getting ahead, that You have the victory, and we are victorious in You, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: How Do I Stay Focused In A World Of Evil?

Pin on Bible Verses

 

“For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.”
Psalm 91:11 (KJV)

 

In the world of social media platforms there is a constant rush of images coming at us from all over the world that can flood our minds and hearts with sorrow that can become overwhelming.  Evil is circling around the globe in a fast paced whirlwind that appears to be non-stop.  Deaths, wars, conflicts, political discord, families pulling away from each other due to disagreements, etc., etc., etc.  How do we stop the evil and chaotic noise of the world from invading our mind, body and soul?  What to guess the answer?  One powerful word, GOD!!! Amen!

How do we do this?

By going to Him for His Word.

By listening to His Word.

By being familiar with His Word.

By adhering to His Word.

By loving Him fully and completely with all of your heart and soul and mind.

As Christians it’s vitally important to remember that the enemy seeks “to kill, to steal, and to destroy” us (John 10:10). Most people when reading this verse will think of drastic measures and images conjure up their minds of really horrific incidents. And that can very well happen, but most times the Enemy will do it in subtle ways. All he has to do is distract us hoping to disconnect us from our Loving Creator and our Mighty God.

We need to pay attention to what we are saying, doing, and seeing in our lives. Paul reminds us in Romans 12:2 –Christians are called to “not be conformed to this age/world, but be transformed by the renewing of our mind, so that we may discern what is good, pleasing, and the perfect will of God.” As Christians we have to make absolutely sure we are spending sufficient and valuable time in God’s Word, and in meditating on the Word. Rather than listening to the “shrill ugliness of the world.” Which is to say the devil.

In order to accomplish the renewing of our minds, we have to sincerely and diligently evaluate what we are filling our heads within order to protect our hearts. And our very soul.  As you will recall in Proverbs 4:23, “Guard our hearts above all else for it is the source of life.”

Take time away from the clash and noise of social media. Turn off your computers, phones, and clear your mind from the “filthiness” of the world in order to “cleanse” your mind. Set your sights and vision on the Kingdom of God, and immerse yourself in the Word.

Praying, meditating, reflecting, going to the Father to pray in private, and giving Him our undivided attention and love and His gospel is the weapons of our defense in the world of today. (Ephesians 6)

Go to Him for everything. Seek Him for everything. Listen to His Word. And seek Him daily in prayer and meditation. And love Him exclusively with all of your heart and soul, putting him first in all things, every day. When you do all of these things we will be able to “squash the noise” which is to say the devil. And we will be able to harness a power in the name of Jesus Christ which will give us the strength to endure, forge on, and be courageous in His name!

That is how you exist in the world of today!  Can I get an Amen!?

“Father God, thank You for loving me and protecting me in Your wings of safety, for Your promises and for Your wisdom and discerning spirit, may I follow You all the days of my life and beyond, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

 

DEAR GOD: THANK YOU FOR PSALM 91 & MORE~

Open Heaven for Today 22 December 2019 – Divine Protection

I’d just like to put the entire Psalm 91 on the site today as a reminder for all of us in just how spectacularly special and amazing our LORD is! It is the quintessential character of who He is, with His provisions, actions, and promises. It reinforces His Omnipotence and His unsurpassable love for all of His children. We are His children and we’ve been redeemed by His blood and His love, and it is not retractable but reinforced by who He is and what He does each day of our life here on earth. And it will continue to be throughout eternity.

So here is Psalm 91 in its entirety, and I’ve chosen King James Version, should any of you prefer another version, please go to it.  I only suggest as you read this beautiful comforting Psalm, you take in the enormous scope of what it truly represents. And know and trust and believe in His Word as you proclaim His great glory and magnificence.

Have a Blessed day in the LORD, Amen.

 

Psalm 91 (KJV)

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

“Father, we thank You for Your providence over our lives, and for Your promises and Presence in our lives, we are under Your wings and safe within the confines of Your love, in Jesus’ name, Amen.”

DEAR GOD: How Can We Be More Like Your Son, Jesus?

 

Pin on Jesus... Lord, Savior, Everything

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”  John 3:16 (KJV)

 

Being more like Jesus sounds like an enormous Herculean task!  After all, He was the perfect unblemished Lamb and was horrifically tortured and crucified for us! Jesus? No one can accomplish that which He did in terms of what He accomplished. No way! He is the One and only true Son of God!

However, we can show love! We have the ability to do that, as Jesus commanded us to do. He didn’t ask us to do it. He commanded us to do it!

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. (John 13:34)

Being like Jesus, means putting others before self.  All the while seeking God’s Wisdom to care about all those you come into contact with during your journey on Earth.

It’s also crucial to become fully acquainted with who Jesus really is. We need to know the Agape love of God in order to demonstrate it.

We have to be as humble as Jesus and treat others with respect. Jesus washed the feet of His disciples; it doesn’t get humbler than that! Jesus said this is an example I’ve given to you, do likewise. (John 13:15)

Do not be boastful or exalt yourself.

Also, to treat those as you would expect to be treated. (Matthew 7:12)

Be considerate of others, and be patient and kind. For Love is just that, patient and kind. (1 Corinthians 13:4)

Be mindful of the sound and tone of your voice, your way of speaking, and type of language. Don’t curse, blaspheme, etc. Speak kindly of others. Put yourself in place of others to fully understand their circumstances, and overall perspective.

As you draw closer to God in His ways, He will draw closer to you. (James 4:8)

Show your love, that’s the closest we will ever get to being like Jesus!

Amen!

 

“Father, thank You for Your love and Your Son, Amen.”