Finding Refuge: Trusting God's Promises in Psalm 91
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. Today, we explored the profound truths of Psalm 91, focusing on God as our ultimate refuge and safe house in times of trouble. I began by sharing my experience watching the movie "Safe House," which ironically depicted a place that was anything but safe. This led us to reflect on where we find our own safety in a world filled with anxiety, betrayal, and danger. Many of us seek refuge in our homes, workplaces, or even within our own thoughts, but often these places fail to provide the security we crave.
Psalm 91 offers a different kind of refuge—one that is grounded in the promises of God. The Psalmist confidently declares that God is his fortress and safe house, a place where he can rest and feel protected. This confidence is not baseless; it is rooted in the promises of God, who assures us of His protection and care. The Psalm vividly describes God as a mother hen gathering her chicks under her wings, offering warmth and safety.
We also examined how Psalm 91 finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of Matthew, we see Jesus being tempted by Satan, who quotes Psalm 91 to challenge Jesus' trust in God's protection. Jesus, however, does not succumb to the temptation to test God. Instead, He demonstrates unwavering faith in God's promises, even in the face of suffering and temptation. This teaches us that God's protection does not mean the absence of suffering but rather His presence and strength amidst it.
Finally, we reflected on how Psalm 91 applies to us today. Because of Jesus, we can claim the promises of this Psalm as our own. God is our refuge, not just in this life but through death and into eternity. However, this does not give us a license to test God recklessly. Instead, we are called to live lives of courageous and resilient faith, trusting in God's love and promises.
### Key Takeaways
1. God as Our Ultimate Refuge: In a world filled with anxiety and danger, God offers Himself as our ultimate refuge and safe house. This refuge is not just a concept but a lived experience where we can find rest and protection. The Psalmist's confidence in God as a fortress is something we can aspire to, knowing that God wants us to feel safe and secure in His care. [50:11]
2. Grounded in God's Promises: The confidence we have in God as our refuge is grounded in His promises. Psalm 91 vividly describes God's protective care, likening it to a mother hen gathering her chicks under her wings. This imagery helps us understand the depth of God's commitment to our safety and well-being. [53:57]
3. Jesus as the Fulfillment of Psalm 91: Jesus' life and ministry provide the ultimate fulfillment of Psalm 91. Despite being tempted by Satan to test God's protection, Jesus remained steadfast in His trust in God's promises. This teaches us that God's protection does not eliminate suffering but assures us of His presence and strength amidst it. [01:04:44]
4. Living Out Psalm 91: Because of Jesus, we can claim the promises of Psalm 91 as our own. However, this does not mean we should recklessly test God. Instead, we are called to live lives of courageous and resilient faith, trusting in God's love and promises. This involves seeking first God's kingdom and righteousness, even amidst life's uncertainties. [01:12:13]
5. Experiencing God's Safety: Personal experiences and testimonies, like feeling safe despite a Parkinson's diagnosis or finding a church community that feels like a safe haven, illustrate how God can be our refuge in real and tangible ways. These experiences remind us that God's promises are not just theoretical but can be deeply felt and lived out in our daily lives. [01:15:45]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[47:43] - The Concept of a Safe House
[48:22] - Where Do You Find Safety?
[49:18] - The Anxieties of Modern Life
[50:11] - God as Our Refuge
[51:14] - Exploring Psalm 91
[52:15] - Personal Reflection on God's Refuge
[53:08] - Confidence in God's Promises
[53:57] - The Voice of the Prophet
[54:39] - Facing Modern Plagues
[56:48] - Trusting God's Protection
[57:25] - God's Personal Assurance
[01:00:20] - Psalm 91 and Jesus
[01:04:44] - Jesus' Temptation and Trust
[01:09:03] - God's Protection Amidst Suffering
[01:10:37] - Psalm 91 and Us
[01:12:13] - Living Out Psalm 91
[01:15:45] - Personal Testimonies of Safety
[01:18:03] - Conclusion and Reflection
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Psalm 91:1-16 - "Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.'"
2. Matthew 4:1-11 - The temptation of Jesus in the wilderness, where Satan quotes Psalm 91.
3. Luke 22:39-43 - Jesus' prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, where an angel strengthens Him.
#### Observation Questions
1. What imagery does Psalm 91 use to describe God's protection? ([51:14])
2. How does Jesus respond to Satan's temptation in Matthew 4, and what scripture does He quote? ([01:02:15])
3. In Luke 22, what does Jesus pray for in the Garden of Gethsemane, and how does God respond? ([01:09:03])
4. According to the sermon, what are some modern-day examples of places where people seek safety but often feel unsafe? ([49:18])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the imagery of a mother hen gathering her chicks under her wings in Psalm 91 help us understand God's protective nature? ([53:57])
2. What does Jesus' refusal to test God in Matthew 4 teach us about the nature of true faith and trust in God's promises? ([01:04:44])
3. How does Jesus' experience in the Garden of Gethsemane (Luke 22) illustrate the concept that God's protection does not eliminate suffering but assures His presence and strength amidst it? ([01:09:03])
4. How can we reconcile the bold promises of protection in Psalm 91 with the reality of suffering and trials in our lives? ([01:10:37])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt unsafe in a place that was supposed to be secure (home, work, etc.). How did you seek refuge in God during that time? ([49:18])
2. Psalm 91 describes God as a refuge and fortress. What practical steps can you take this week to remind yourself of God's protective presence in your daily life? ([51:14])
3. Jesus demonstrated unwavering faith in God's promises even when tempted by Satan. How can you cultivate a similar trust in God's promises when facing your own temptations and challenges? ([01:04:44])
4. The sermon mentioned that God's protection does not mean the absence of suffering. How can you find comfort in God's presence and strength during your current struggles? ([01:09:03])
5. The pastor shared personal testimonies of feeling safe despite difficult circumstances. Can you share a personal experience where you felt God's protection in a tangible way? ([01:15:45])
6. How can you create a "safe house" environment within your church community, where others can feel secure and supported? ([01:17:09])
7. Reflect on the call to live lives of courageous and resilient faith. What specific actions can you take this week to seek first God's kingdom and righteousness amidst life's uncertainties? ([01:14:22])
Devotional
Day 1: God as Our Ultimate Refuge
In a world filled with anxiety and danger, God offers Himself as our ultimate refuge and safe house. This refuge is not just a concept but a lived experience where we can find rest and protection. The Psalmist's confidence in God as a fortress is something we can aspire to, knowing that God wants us to feel safe and secure in His care. The imagery of God as a mother hen gathering her chicks under her wings helps us understand the depth of His commitment to our safety and well-being. This is a profound reminder that our true security is found in God alone, not in the temporary shelters we often seek.
When we face life's uncertainties, it is easy to look for safety in our homes, jobs, or even within our own thoughts. However, these places often fail to provide the lasting security we crave. Psalm 91 invites us to shift our focus from these temporary refuges to the eternal refuge found in God. By trusting in His promises, we can experience a peace that transcends our circumstances. [50:11]
Psalm 46:1-2 (ESV): "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea."
Reflection: Think of a situation in your life where you feel anxious or unsafe. How can you actively seek God's refuge in this situation today?
Day 2: Grounded in God's Promises
The confidence we have in God as our refuge is grounded in His promises. Psalm 91 vividly describes God's protective care, likening it to a mother hen gathering her chicks under her wings. This imagery helps us understand the depth of God's commitment to our safety and well-being. The Psalmist's assurance is not based on wishful thinking but on the steadfast promises of God, who is faithful and true.
God's promises are a firm foundation upon which we can build our lives. When we face trials and uncertainties, we can hold onto these promises, knowing that God is with us and for us. This confidence allows us to navigate life's challenges with a sense of peace and security, trusting that God will protect and guide us. [53:57]
Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Reflection: Reflect on a specific promise of God that has been meaningful to you. How can you remind yourself of this promise in your daily life?
Day 3: Jesus as the Fulfillment of Psalm 91
Jesus' life and ministry provide the ultimate fulfillment of Psalm 91. Despite being tempted by Satan to test God's protection, Jesus remained steadfast in His trust in God's promises. This teaches us that God's protection does not eliminate suffering but assures us of His presence and strength amidst it. Jesus' unwavering faith in God's promises, even in the face of suffering and temptation, serves as a powerful example for us to follow.
In the Gospel of Matthew, we see Jesus being tempted by Satan, who quotes Psalm 91 to challenge Jesus' trust in God's protection. Jesus, however, does not succumb to the temptation to test God. Instead, He demonstrates unwavering faith in God's promises, even in the face of suffering and temptation. This teaches us that God's protection does not mean the absence of suffering but rather His presence and strength amidst it. [01:04:44]
Hebrews 4:15-16 (ESV): "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need."
Reflection: Think about a recent challenge or temptation you faced. How can Jesus' example of trust in God's promises help you in similar situations?
Day 4: Living Out Psalm 91
Because of Jesus, we can claim the promises of Psalm 91 as our own. However, this does not mean we should recklessly test God. Instead, we are called to live lives of courageous and resilient faith, trusting in God's love and promises. This involves seeking first God's kingdom and righteousness, even amidst life's uncertainties. By doing so, we demonstrate our trust in God's provision and protection.
Living out Psalm 91 means embodying a faith that is both courageous and resilient. It means trusting in God's promises and love, even when circumstances are difficult. This trust is not passive but active, calling us to seek God's kingdom and righteousness in all that we do. By living this way, we show that our confidence is in God, not in our own abilities or the temporary securities of this world. [01:12:13]
Matthew 6:33-34 (ESV): "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."
Reflection: Identify one area of your life where you can actively seek God's kingdom and righteousness today. What steps can you take to trust in God's provision and protection in this area?
Day 5: Experiencing God's Safety
Personal experiences and testimonies, like feeling safe despite a Parkinson's diagnosis or finding a church community that feels like a safe haven, illustrate how God can be our refuge in real and tangible ways. These experiences remind us that God's promises are not just theoretical but can be deeply felt and lived out in our daily lives. When we share these testimonies, we encourage others to trust in God's protective care.
Experiencing God's safety is not just about avoiding danger but about finding peace and security in His presence. Whether through personal health challenges or finding a supportive community, these experiences show us that God's refuge is real and accessible. By reflecting on these moments, we can strengthen our faith and encourage others to trust in God's promises. [01:15:45]
Psalm 34:7-8 (ESV): "The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them. Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed is the man who takes refuge in him!"
Reflection: Recall a time when you felt God's protective care in your life. How can you share this testimony with someone who might need encouragement today?
Quotes
1. "Now, here's the good news, right? In an anxious world, God wants you to be safe. He wants you to be able to breathe. He wants you to be able to breathe freely and to rest. He wants to be your refuge, your safe house. He wants to protect and save and shelter you from every danger there is. And that is what Psalm 91 is all about." [50:11] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "It's talking about how God is our safe house. That's what refuge means. And the guy speaking this Psalm has this solid confidence that God really is his safe place. He can calm his breathing, a place where he can sleep. You know, in the midst of, look at what it says, the shelter. Right? In the midst of the storms of life, God is a shelter. You know, in the midst of the chaos of life around about us, we can rest in the shadow of the Almighty. When everything else is crashing down, God is a refuge and a fortress. Something solid and reliable in whom we can trust." [51:14] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "My prayer is that you will be able to hold on to God, that He will be your refuge, that you will experience that, that you'll not only know it, but that you'll feel it, that you will experience the confidence and assurance that comes. I have had the wonderful blessing of experiencing God as my shelter, my refuge, and it makes so much difference to life. That is my prayer for all of you, that you will come to know God as your safe house and come to know His loving protection." [52:15] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Surely He will save you from the fowler's snare, from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge. See, we are pictured here as little, little chickens. And it's not because we're cute. Some of you are cuter than others, but it's because we're so vulnerable, so open to attack. And like a mother hen, God pulls us in under His wings and protects us. And we feel warm and safe under His protection." [53:57] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Well, God is such a refuge that he provides refuge in the face of the plague of COVID-19. Even when the world faces disaster and pandemic. And notice even at night, because night's the time when the terrors come, isn't it? When the fears can run away with themselves. But even at night, there is safety from what we cannot see." [56:01] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "God is saying, trust me, put your trust in me and I'll protect you from all harm and you'll be constantly surrounded by my angels. I'll protect you. It sounds so good and just in case we're unconvinced by this point, God himself speaks in first person voice. Point three, the confidence, the confidence we have is grounded in the personal assurance of God himself." [57:25] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "God's protection of Jesus did not stop Jesus having to endure suffering, did it? He had to endure the suffering of those 40 days in the wilderness, hungry, tired, lonely, weak. And the protection of God wouldn't stop Jesus feeling the sense of the way his family kind of didn't get him. He didn't really feel safe in his own home. His disciples constantly misunderstood him. The religious leaders deliberately misunderstood him. They hated him. The mocking, the taunting, the abandonment of the cross, shame, all of those things would happen to this man under the protection of God." [01:08:17] (56 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "God's protection is beyond Jesus' suffering. So Jesus will go through the abandonment of the cross, the betrayal, the humiliation, the agony. As Jesus hung on the cross, he did not look like a man under the close protection of God. But on the third day, God would raise him up from the grave. For Jesus, protection from God would happen in the midst of suffering and beyond the suffering. But it would not remove the need for suffering. And it is the same for us." [01:09:51] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "God makes these beautiful promises of safety and protection to us because of Jesus. And that is so good. So God is your safe house. And he always will be. Through this life, in the midst of whatever you go through, through death, into eternity. God will be your shelter, your salvation, your protection. You will live life under his blessing." [01:11:28] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "The way we live out Psalm 91 is not by putting God to the test. It's not about saying, prove your love to me, God. The way we live out Psalm 91 is by trusting that God already does love me. He's given me his promises in his word. And as I look throughout history, he has kept every one of those promises. And if I ever doubt his love, then I look to his son, Jesus, that he would die on the cross for me. And I go, I am loved by God. He has proven it beyond doubt. And so I know that he is my refuge. Even in times of suffering, I can rest confident in his protection." [01:13:33] (50 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
Chatbot
-
I'm an AI bot trained specifically on the sermon from Aug 18, 2024. Do you have any questions about it?