Psalm 91, known as the believer’s insurance policy, is perhaps the most celebrated chapter in the Bible. The psalm is a buoyant celebration of God’s protection, comfort and care, and offers the most complete and thorough expression of trust in God’s providence found anywhere in scripture. It has been a source of encouragement in trying and dangerous times for thousands of years.

The psalm 91 explained verse by verse  that God will keep those who trust in Him and make Him their dwelling place (vv. 1-2) in ways more than human hands can describe or understand. He will shield them like a tower from the enemy’s attack, surround them like a fortress and guard them with His powerful arm of protection (vv. 3-4, 9-12). He will be their refuge and shelter from the lightning and the shadow of death (vv. 13-16).

A Psalm for Every Season: How Psalm 91 Offers Hope and Assurance

Those who trust in God will be protected from the evil of the enemy and the dangers of this world, even from the plague that is like a roaring lion. They will be delivered from those who seek their life and happiness in their own power, wisdom and riches (vv. 5-6, 11-12). They will abide in the shadow of the Almighty (vv. 13-16).

It is important to remember that this psalm is not intended as a guarantee of invincibility from all dangers. Satan tried to use parts of this psalm against Jesus during the temptation in the desert (Matthew 4:6-12). It is a small step from confidence that God will protect us under all conditions to confidence that He can be forced to operate at our beck and call.