God’s Word of Mercy and Forgiveness

Introduction

Psalm 91: This psalm expresses confidence in God’s protection, particularly in times of danger. Those who are faithful are assured of God’s unfailing presence.

Scripture Reading

God Our Protector

1Whoever goes to the Lord for safety,

whoever remains under the protection of the Almighty,

2can say to him,

“You are my defender and protector.

You are my God; in you I trust.”

3He will keep you safe from all hidden dangers

and from all deadly diseases.

4He will cover you with his wings;

you will be safe in his care;

his faithfulness will protect and defend you.

5You need not fear any dangers at night

or sudden attacks during the day

6or the plagues that strike in the dark

or the evils that kill in daylight.

7A thousand may fall dead beside you,

ten thousand all around you,

but you will not be harmed.

8You will look and see

how the wicked are punished.

9You have made the Lord your defender,

the Most High your protector,

10and so no disaster will strike you,

no violence will come near your home.

11 God will put his angels in charge of you

to protect you wherever you go.

12 They will hold you up with their hands

to keep you from hurting your feet on the stones.

13 You will trample down lions and snakes,

fierce lions and poisonous snakes.

14God says, “I will save those who love me

and will protect those who acknowledge me as Lord.

15When they call to me, I will answer them;

when they are in trouble, I will be with them.

I will rescue them and honor them.

16I will reward them with long life;

I will save them.”

Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 91:14

God says, “I will save those who love me and will protect those who acknowledge me as LORD.”

Reflect

How does the psalm writer express trust in God’s protection? Reread verses 3-13 and personalize this psalm by replacing the word “you” with “me” or “I” as appropriate and replacing the word “your” with “my.” What verses in this psalm are particularly meaningful to you and why?

Pray

Almighty God, you are my protector and defender. Whenever I am in trouble, I know that you are with me. You are my place of safety. In you, Lord God, I put my trust. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Psalm 102: A prayer by a weary sufferer.