It was the spring semester of my senior year in high school in Oklahoma. My dad was in the Navy and had left for sea duty, shuttling between San Francisco and Japan. Mother had gone back to Illinois to care for my grandfather during the final weeks of his life. Seventeen years old, I was home alone.
Repeating Psalm 91
Although I would admit it to no one, I was afraid to go to sleep at night. I didn’t fully trust my little Chihuahua to keep me safe. Too ashamed to ask my friends to stay with me, I turned to the Lord for protection. Every night I repeated Psalm 91 over and over until I could peacefully fall asleep. Soon I had memorized this wonderful psalm. It has been a favorite ever since:
He alone is my safe place
We live within the shadow of the Almighty, sheltered by the God who is above all gods. This I declare, that he alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I am trusting him.
He rescues, protects, shields, and shelters
For he rescues you from every trap and protects you from the fatal plague. He will shield you with his wings! They will shelter you. His faithful promises are your armor.
I need not fear
Now you don't need to be afraid of the dark anymore, nor fear the dangers of the day; nor dread the plagues of darkness, nor disasters in the morning. Though a thousand fall at my side, though ten thousand are dying around me, the evil will not touch me. I will see how the wicked are punished, but I will not share it.
Jehovah my refuge
For Jehovah is my refuge! I choose the God above all gods to shelter me. How then can evil overtake me or any plague come near?
Protection from angels
For he orders his angels to protect you wherever you go. They will steady you with their hands to keep you from stumbling against the rocks on the trail. You can safely meet a lion or step on poisonous snakes, yes, even trample them beneath your feet!
Rescue, presence, honor, salvation
For the Lord says, “Because he loves me, I will rescue him; I will make him great because he trusts in my name. When he calls on me, I will answer; I will be with him in trouble and rescue him and honor him. I will satisfy him with a full life and give him my salvation
(Psalm 91 TLB).
God’s promise to His children
God has promised His children divine protection in dangerous situations if we ask Him. Frightening circumstances can be golden opportunities for God to show us His loving care and powerful protection.
Today’s prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for promising to answer me when I call to You, to be with me in trouble and rescue me. Help me not to waste time worrying about our protection but to trust You completely with our care. Amen.
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Becky Cerling Powers
10/25/2019
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Becky Cerling Powers
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