Thursday, March 14, 2024

Trample the Devil When He Rises Against You

 

 God's Protective Covering

 




Whether you believe that the devil and his demons can attack you or not doesn’t matter. That will not make you immune to attacks by evil forces. Of greater importance, however, is whether or not you are firm in your belief in Jesus Christ, and that you know without a shadow of a doubt that you have been redeemed by His blood and that the devil, death, hell, and the grave have no power over you unless you give in.  The Devil knows that he has a short time to do his work (Rev 12:12), so he is constantly on the hunt to take us down (1 Peter 5:8). Jesus already told us that the battle has been won, but we will still be tested (James 1:2-6 and 1 Peter 1:6-7).

 

I grew up hearing my mother pray Psalm 91 every night. By the time I was 10 years old, I knew the words and could say them without reading from the Bible.  It gave me the sensation, way back then, that we were covered by God’s shadow and that we were safe. It has become one of my favorite Psalms. Whenever I pray that Psalm, regardless of what is happening around me, I feel the presence of God and I feel protected.

 

Sometimes though, it can feel like the whole host of hell has been let loose against us. At such times it is important to remember who Christ is, who we are in Him, and His promises to us. It is not certain who wrote Psalm 91 as no author is mentioned in the Hebrew text of this Psalm. Jewish tradition credits it to Moses, with David compiling it in his Book of Psalms. The Septuagint translation ascribes it to David. Regardless of who wrote it, it is a powerful Psalm that reassures us of God’s protection and deliverance from evil forces.

 

In times of uncertainty, fear, and adversity, finding solace in the unwavering protection of God can be a source of immense comfort and strength. Psalm 91 stands as a beacon of hope, offering profound reassurance to believers that they are enveloped in God's unfailing love and safeguarded from harm. Let us delve into the depths of this sacred psalm, drawing upon its timeless wisdom to affirm the enduring protection of our Heavenly Father.

 

We are met with words of steadfast assurance from the first verse: "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty" (Psalm 91:1). Here, we are reminded that those who seek refuge in the presence of God will find themselves under His divine protection, shielded from the storms of life that may seek to engulf them. Visualize the scene created by the words and experience the feeling you get from it.


Let's Explore These Verses


The imagery evoked by the Psalmist paints a vivid picture of God's unwavering protection: "He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge" (Psalm 91:4). Just as a mother bird shields her young beneath her wings, so too does God shield His beloved children from harm, providing a sanctuary of safety and peace amidst the chaos of the world.

 

In the face of adversity and the rising tide of evil forces, Psalm 91 offers a powerful declaration of God's omnipotence and sovereignty: "You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor the destruction that wastes at noonday" (Psalm 91:5-6). Even in the darkest of times, we are called to stand firm in our faith, trusting that God's protective hand will never falter. Take a minute to envisage all of those diverse scenes and mentally picture God keeping you safe, protected, and provided for in all of them. Isn’t the God you serve awesome?

 

Indeed, the promises contained within Psalm 91 serve as a testament to God's unchanging nature and His unwavering commitment to His people. "Because you have made the Lord your dwelling place - the Most High, who is my refuge - no evil shall be allowed to befall you, no plague come near your tent" (Psalm 91:9 -10). In times of trial and tribulation, we can take refuge in the knowledge that God is our stronghold, our fortress, and our deliverer. I often pray this Psalm in the morning, and I just imagine God’s presence all around.  He is always there but if we are not in tune with His presence then we will be unaware.

 

As we reflect on the profound truths of Psalm 91, let us take heart in the assurance that God's protection knows no bounds. "For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone" (Psalm 91:11-12). Even in life's most challenging moments, God's angels stand ready to watch over us, guiding our steps and ensuring our safety.

 

Verse 13 is powerful. Can you imagine walking on lions and serpents and being fearless and safe? Can you imagine trampling the old dragon, Satan, every time he comes against you? Just remember to call upon God. He says he will deliver you because you are His. He says He will save you…and believer, God keeps His promises!

 

Stand Firm


Let us cling to the timeless promises of Psalm 91 as a source of strength, courage, and unwavering faith. In the face of adversity, uncertainty, and the relentless onslaught of evil forces, may we find solace in the comforting embrace of our Heavenly Father, knowing that His protective hand is ever-present in our lives. As we journey forward, may we walk in the assurance of God's unfailing love and protection, trusting in His promises and resting securely in His unchanging faithfulness.

 

May you find comfort in His presence, strength in His promises, and peace in His love. Whenever you feel besieged or threatened by evil forces remember to read Psalm 91. May you emerge from those seasons of difficulty with a renewed sense of purpose, a deeper faith, and a greater appreciation for the goodness of God.

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