There’s no doubt that these days we are currently living in will go down in history. It seems as though the entire world is shutting down and entering their own phase of quarantine. More than ever, it is a time to dwell.

A Time to Dwell

The simple definition of dwell is to live in or at a specified place. The Hebrew meaning – ישב (yashab) – indicates to sit, be seated, dwell, and abide. I can’t help but be drawn to Psalm 91 for understanding how to truly dwell in the midst of situations and circumstances that would attempt to rock our worlds.

There is much wisdom found in this passage of Psalms, most of what we should remember now, and for the times to come.

Dwell in the Secret Place

Psalms 91 begins with telling us that for those who choose to dwell in the secret place of the Most High, they are saying that He is their refuge and stronghold. It is in Him that they are putting their trust.

Again, this is a choice. When things happen beyond our control and understanding, are we going to place our trust in the news? In the President? In our emotions? Hopefully we choose to place our trust in the Most High and dwell in His secret place.

Dwelling Delivers

Continuing with Psalms 91, verses 3-6 remind us that when we choose to dwell in the shelter of the Most High, he delivers. And He’s not delivering us from just anything. He delivers us from the snare of the trapper, destructive pestilence, fear of dread by night, arrows that fly by day, and ravages at midday.

His deliverance covers us like a shield and armor. Nothing can nor will penetrate it. That is an amazing promise!

Dwelling Guards

Verses 9-13 reiterates dwelling in the secret place of the Most High, but this time attention is drawn to what happens when things really get bad. It says that a thousand may fall at your side, and ten thousand at your right hand – but it does not come near you.

Dwelling in this secret place guards you from evil. It guards you from the plague. And, it guards you in all your ways. Not to mention, He commands His messengers concerning you. How awesome is His love that He would send messengers to bear you up so no harm comes to you?!

Dwelling Secures

Psalms 91 ends with an incredible promise. However, pay attention to the if/then stipulation here –

“Because he cleaves to Me in love, therefore I deliver him; I set him in high, because he has known My Name. When he calls on Me, I answer him; I am with him in distress; I deliver him and esteem him. With long life I satisfy him, and show him My deliverance.” – Psalms 91:14-16

No matter what you’re going through in life or what is going on around you, Psalms 91 is a passage of promises that when you choose to dwell in the shelter of the Most High, He will deliver, guard, and secure you.

To help you declare these promises over your life, I have created a printable 10-page journal with each page having a passage from Psalms 91. Print it, pray the Word, and journal what is revealed as you meditate. Listen to the song below as an added bonus!

CHIME IN: What are your go-to passages for difficult circumstances and situations in life? Share in the comments below!