“He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the LORD, ‘My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
~ Psalm 91:1–2
This psalm opens with an invitation to dwell, not just visit, in the presence of God. The word dwell (Hebrew: yashab) means to sit down, remain, or settle in. Thriving in troubled times begins with choosing to stay close to God, not rushing in and out when convenient, but abiding with Him daily.
The psalmist describes two images of God’s protection:
- Shelter and Shadow. Just as shade protects from scorching heat, God’s shadow covers and shields us. The Almighty’s presence provides rest and relief in the harshness of life.
- Refuge and Fortress. A refuge is a place of safety, and a fortress is a stronghold that enemies cannot penetrate. God Himself is our ultimate defense against fear, danger, and attack.
The response? “I will say to the LORD, ‘My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.’”
Thriving isn’t automatic because it flows from trust. When we declare our confidence in God, we anchor ourselves in His protection. Applied to biblical health, Psalm 91 gives us assurance in uncertain times.
While we take wise steps to guard our health, our ultimate security is not in medicine, systems, or human strength, it is in dwelling under the covering of the Almighty. His presence brings peace to anxious hearts and protection that surpasses human ability.
Thriving in this sense is not the absence of danger, but the presence of God. Those who dwell in His shelter are able to walk in peace, rest, and resilience, even when the world trembles.
Prayer: Most High God, thank You that I can dwell in Your shelter and rest in Your shadow. Be my refuge and my fortress. Teach me to trust You more deeply so that I may thrive in Your presence, unshaken by fear or trouble. Amen.
