Untitled Sermon

Psalm 91(06/03/25)

Good morning, my FATHER GOD. Good morning, my LORD and SAVIOR, JESUS CHRIST. Good morning, HOLY SPIRIT—my Comforter, my Counselor, my ever-present Helper.

Each day—whether spoken aloud, woven into my actions, displayed in my body, or breathed in the quiet chambers of my soul and spirit (1 Thessalonians 5:23)—I praise and honor YOU, my GOD.

When the disciples asked JESUS how to pray, HE began with holy reverence, teaching them to approach YOU as FATHER and to hallow YOUR NAME: “Our FATHER in Heaven, hallowed (kept HOLY) be YOUR NAME” (Matthew 6:9; Luke 11:2).

And so, before I lift my voice in worship, I pause with intention—quieting the noise within, setting aside every distraction—whether trials or pleasures (Psalm 55:17)—and turn my focus away from the worries and situations that swirl around me, I come before YOU and enter YOUR presence with reverence and stillness.

Today, like David, I call my soul to attention—stirring it to turn inward, to praise, to remember, and to stand in awe of YOU. I “BLESS (AFFECTIONATELY, gratefully praise) the LORD, O my soul; and all that is [deepest] within me, bless YOUR HOLY NAME! Bless (affectionately, gratefully praise) the LORD, O my soul, and forget not [one of] all HIS benefits—HE forgives [every one of] all your iniquities, HE heals [each one of] all your diseases, HE redeems your life from the pit and corruption, HE beautifies, dignifies, and crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercy; HE fills your life with good things” (Psalm 103:1–4).

When studying about the Bible, I like to explore the historical context of Scriptures.  What was going on when this Scripture was written?  Who wrote this Scripture and Why? 

Even though these questions to which I seek answers from the Bible, Bible scholars, historical and biblical sources, I do not always find the answer which will satisfy my curiosity. 

When GOD created me, HE created someone who loves to do research and find answers.  Before the Internet, I was in the library searching and reading. Or I was locating newspapers, articles, etc. searching.  Always desiring to know more.

With the advent of the Internet and its information which amounts to 1 million libraries at my finger tips, my curiosity and research capabilities have expanded significantly. 

But, what happens when I cannot find what I am looking for as it relates to something in the Bible.  Well, there are times when the Bible is silent.  When the Bible, the WORD of GOD is silent, then it is time for us to be silent.

So, What do we know about Psalm 91?  Some people call it the “Soldier’s Psalm”.  It is often referred to as the "Soldier's Psalm" due to its emphasis on divine protection during times of crisis and its popularity among military personnel.  The psalm has been associated with military victory and apotropaic (protective) powers throughout history. A Catholic liturgy is a holy rhythm of worship—rich in meaning, rooted in Scripture, centered on Jesus, and shared with the whole Church. Catholics used liturgies for blessing Crusaders.  And, Psalm 91 has been popular among soldiers in various conflicts, including the American Civil War and World Wars. I am sure many Christian families sent their loved ones off to wars, conflicts, or deployments with Psalm 91 ranging from oral prayers to the written Word.

Some scholars say Psalm 91 should be viewed, as a Christian, in spiritual terms.  They think it is a prophesy about JESUS (Psalm 91:13) defeating our spiritual enemies through HIS resurrection.

What do we know; What must we, as believers, must stand on the WORD of GOD:

“16 Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God’s will in thought, purpose, and action),

17 So that the man of God may be complete and proficient, well fitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

What else do we know? 

We, who are saved, are not promised a trouble free life.

JESUS told us, 33 I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace and confidence. In the world you have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.] (John 16:33).

So, Today, June 4, 2025, we continue to have battles both physical and spiritual. 

Thank the LORD, HE inspired the Apostle Paul to give us steps on how to prepare and equip ourselves for these battles when he wrote Ephesians 6:11-19. 

God knows life is a battle—not just with people, but with spiritual forces that try to pull us away from truth, peace, and faith.

So He gives us spiritual armor to help us stand strong.

He tells us to put on the full armor of God—so we won’t be tricked, discouraged, or defeated.

Each piece of this armor has a purpose:

The belt of truth – The belt of truth is the first part of the armor listed because, without truth, we are lost, and the schemes of the devil will surely overpower us. Always wrap your life in GOD’s trust; so You won’t be fooled by Satan’s lies.

The breastplate of righteousness which was purchased for us by JESUS– Seek GOD and HIS righteousness above everything else. Wearing this breastplate creates a lifestyle of putting into practice what we believe in our hearts.

Shoes of peace from the Good news – The gospel provides the footing for everything we do. However powerful the rest of your body is, if you are wounded in your feet you are easy prey for the enemy.  We must be prepared and ready. The idea of preparation is really readiness. We must be mobile, flexible, and ready with the truth. This is a place to have in the Christian life, to live in constant readiness and flexibility

The shield of faith – Trust in God; He will block the attacks of fear, doubt, and lies. Thoughts, feelings, imaginations, fears, and lies—all of these can be hurled at us by Satan as fiery darts. Faith turns them back.

The helmet of salvation – Even a soldier’s helmet protects his head, which is an essential part of this body.  One of Satan’s most effective weapons against us is discouragement. The helmet of salvation protects us against discouragement, against the desire to give up, giving us hope not only in knowing that we are saved, but that we will be saved. It is the assurance that God will triumph.When we are properly equipped with the helmet of salvation, it’s hard to stay discouraged.

The sword of the Spirit – We must not think of the Bible, which is GOD’s WORD, as some magical book which when spoken gives us our hearts desire.  This is God’s Word—your weapon for truth and victory. And, it is the absolute TRUTH. 

And then Paul says: Pray constantly.

Talk to God in every situation. Be alert. Pray for yourself. Pray for others.

And pray boldly—because you're not in this battle alone.

Now that we know what equipment, we need to do battle with Satan, the enemy of GOD.  Let look at what the WORD says in Psalm 91.

Psalm 91 is a powerful expression of confidence in God's protection and care for those who trust in Him. The psalm is structured in three parts, each offering promises of divine refuge.

First, Psalm 91 uses a lot of imagery, poetry, and metaphors.

A metaphor helps you understand one thing by comparing it to something very different—but in a creative way. It’s like using your imagination to say: "This reminds me of that."  (Rewrite this to make it flow in this sermonette.)

The Three Promises Psalm 91

PROMISE # 1: GOD will be our Protection

Psalm 91:1-3 Our responsibility:  We must dwell with GOD first.

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High…”

This is a word picture pointing to the tabernacle, the sacred tent God told Moses to build in the wilderness. Inside the tabernacle was a hidden room called the Most Holy Place—a place no one could enter except the high priest, once a year, because it symbolized God's holy presence.

So when the psalm says “secret place,” it's not just a hiding spot—it’s a picture of the deep closeness and safety of being with God, like being in the very center of where He dwells.

1. “Secret place of the Most High”

This is a metaphor for God’s presence, a special and safe space that isn’t visible or physical—but it's real.

It’s like having a quiet, hidden shelter in your soul where you go to be close to God, away from the noise and danger of the world.

2. “Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty”

This paints a picture of being under God’s protection, like standing in the shade of something strong and close.

A shadow means God is near. Just like a child stays in the shadow of a loving parent, we stay close to God for safety and peace.

3. “Refuge” and “Fortress”

These words describe God as a safe place, like a strong building that keeps you safe during a storm or an enemy attack.

It’s saying: “When life is hard or scary, I can run to God. He will protect me like a strong wall around me.”

4. “Snare of the fowler”

A fowler is someone who sets traps to catch birds. This metaphor means hidden dangers or traps the enemy sets for you.

God promises to rescue you from things meant to catch you off guard or bring you harm.

So, What is this holy secret place?

It is not only a place of protection and refuge from life’s troubles.

It is also a place of comfort when your heart is weary.

A place of communion where you meet with God in the stillness.

A place of contemplation, where you reflect on His Word and hear His voice.

And a place of divine companionship, where you are never alone—because the Almighty is near.

Think of the secret hiding places we enjoyed as children.  God has a secret hiding place, and He invites each of us to join Him there.

Is this “Secret Hiding” place somewhere we just visit from time to time? NO.  GOD invites, us believers, to change our spiritual address.  God invites us to pack up and move to His secret place. He wants us to permanently live there.

What must we do to live permanently in GOD’s Secret Hiding place?

We must learn to set aside a special time day or night to commune and be with GOD. 

We must surrender all distractions and turn our focus—not our burdens, but to HIS presence—even when those distractions come wrapped in familiar or unfamiliar voices, urgent needs, or the weight of expectations—whether placed on us by others, or quietly imposed by ourselves.

Some expectations are placed upon us, while others we carry quietly—driven by our own desire to meet the world’s standards or earn someone’s approval

We, believers, must remember what Paul wrote to the church of Corinth.  He said it not wise to compare ourselves with others

The Apostle Paul wrote to the church of Corinth:  “Oh, don’t worry; we wouldn’t dare say that we are as wonderful as these other men who tell you how important they are! But they are only comparing themselves with each other, using themselves as the standard of measurement. How ignorant! (2 Corinthians 10:12)

We must be transparent and honest with GOD.  He knew us before we were born.  He knows everything about us.  There are no secret sins.  GOD know them all.

JESUS, YOU said that everything hidden will eventually be brought into the open and every secret will be brought to light (Mark 4:22). We know that even our secret sins are spread out before YOU and YOU see them all (Psalm 90:8; I John 1:9).  JESUS said, “For the time is coming when everything that is covered will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all” (Matthew 10:26; Luke 12:2); “Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!” (Luke 12:3).  

FATHER GOD, Nothing in all creation is hidden from YOU. Everything is naked and exposed before YOUR eyes, and we are accountable to YOU (Hebrews 4:13).

We cannot join God in His secret place unless we are willing to be transparent and honest with Him.

Just like, I taught my son when he was a child.  I might see what you are doing or saying.  Your father may not see.  But, Who sees?  He would answer “God sees”. Yes, GOD sees.

Psalm 91:4 says, “Then He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings shall you trust and find refuge…”

This is the image of a bird—like a mother bird—spreading her wings over her young to protect them from danger, rain, or predators.

“Pinions” are the outer feathers on a bird’s wing, the strong ones used for flying—but also for sheltering.

So when God “covers you with His pinions,” it means He pulls you close and shields you like a loving parent—gentle, strong, and watchful.

Just like baby birds feel safe and warm under their mother’s wings, you can trust God to protect, cover, and hold you close when life feels uncertain.

Then the verse says:

“His truth and His faithfulness are a shield and a buckler.”

A shield is for blocking big attacks.

A buckler is a smaller, round shield worn close to the body for quick defense.

This means God’s promises and faithfulness will protect you from all sides—whether the danger is big and obvious or sudden and unexpected.

So, God is like a mother bird who shelters you with love, and like a warrior who surrounds you with truth and strength. You are not exposed. You are not forgotten. You are covered—completely.

Psalm 91:5-8 When you live under God’s covering, you don’t have to be afraid—day or night.

Not of the terror that comes in the dark, when everything feels uncertain.

Not of the arrows that fly by day—the attacks, threats, or bad news that come out of nowhere.

Not of the diseases that spread in the darkness, or the destruction that strikes when no one expects it.

Even when thousands fall beside you, and even more around you, you are not alone and you are not forgotten.

God’s protection will hold you steady.

You’ll see the consequences that come to those who reject God’s ways,

but you will be a witness—not a victim—because the Lord is your shield.

The godly should not be afraid, because the Lord watches over them. These promises do not guarantee an escape from trouble, but they create an expectation of the Lord’s goodness.

PROMISE # 2:  GOD sends his protective Angels (Psalm 91:9-13)

Scriptures bring us back to our responsibility.  Again, We must first dwell with GOD. 

Because you have made the Lord your dwelling place—

because you’ve chosen to stay close to Him and trust in His presence—

no true harm will overtake you.

Disaster may shake the world around you,

but God’s hand will hold you steady.

He will even send His angels to guard you,

to keep you safe in all your ways.

They will lift you up—so gently and carefully—

so that you won’t even trip over a stone.

Of course, we know that Satan is the father of all lies and is the ultimate deceiver, he twist Psalm 91:11-12. when he tried to tempt JESUS. Satan twists Psalm 91:11 in Matthew 4:7 and Luke 4:12.   He took JESUS to the highest point of the Jerusalem Temple and tried to entice him to jump.  The Devil said  “If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the Scriptures say,  ‘He will order his angels to protect you.  And they will hold you up with their hands so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.’ (Matthew 4:5-6)

But, JESUS rebukes him and says Jesus responded, “The Scriptures also say, ‘You must not test the LORD your God.’ (Matthew 4:7). But, Jesus was quoting the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 6:16).

Now, if JESUS used GOD’S WORD against Satan.  What do You think we should be doing?  But, what happens when we do not either not know GOD’s WORD or does not have HIS WORD deeply implanted in our hearts?

With God’s strength, you will walk boldly through danger.

You will tread on lions and snakes—symbols of deadly threats—

but they will not overcome you.

PROMISE # 3:  Eight Blessings and Eight Verbs of Protection Psalm 91:14–16

1. I will deliver him – God promises rescue and protection from harm or danger.

2. I will set him on high – God will lift you above the reach of harm; a place of safety and honor.

3. I will answer him – When you pray, God will respond. You're not ignored.

4. I will be with him in trouble – God promises His presence, even in life’s hardest moments.

5. I will deliver him (again) – This reinforces God's commitment to saving and rescuing you.

6. I will honor him – God will lift you up, bless you, and give you dignity and favor.

7. With long life I will satisfy him – God offers not just long life, but a fulfilled one.

8. I will show him My salvation – This includes God's help, healing, deliverance, and eternal life.

God’s power in you is greater than the danger around you. But, we must take the time to dwell with HIM.  Not just I go to church.  Not just I attend Bible.  Not just I am on the prayer line every morning.  Satan care nothing any of this.  Have You made GOD’s Secret Hiding place your permanent residence?  Do You daily put on GOD’s Armor?  Do You know GOD’s WORD, planted it in fertile soil, and hidden it in Your heart?  Do You dwell will GOD on a daily basis?  Have You met GOD’s conditions so that Psalm 91 can remain active in Your life and the lives of your loved ones?

Yes, we all want all of GOD’s blessings and all of GOD’s protection.  But, What have we done?