God is always with us.

In Psalm 91:5-13, the psalmist continues to describe some seemingly dire situations that we may experience. It appears that coming our way is “the terror of the night,” flying arrows, and destruction. Yet the psalmist shifts the tone to hope in verse 9, promising that because our refuge is the Lord, no evil will befall us. Furthermore, our God will provide supernatural protection for us – His angels will be sent to guard us. Not only will they pick us up and carry us, but they will give us the strength to overcome obstacles we are bound to face in the future. This is good news!

The promise of Psalm 91 is not that we won’t experience dark and difficult days, but that God will be with us when we go through them. His very name is Emmanual, which means “God with us” (Isaiah 7:14)! Jesus, in fact, promises that in this world, we will have trouble, yet encourages us to take heart – for He has overcome the world (John 16:33)! Notice the verse doesn’t say, “you won’t face darkness, arrows, or destruction around you.” It assumes we are in it - yet God is present right there with us, miraculously protecting us and promising us a great future. 

Today you may be facing a difficult situation, but remember that “the Lord, your dwelling place,” “the Most High,” and your “refuge” is right there with you. He always has been, He always will be, and He has overcome!