Psalms 91:1
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.Psalms 91:1
What does Psalms 91:1 mean?
The psalmist describes a place of intimate closeness with God — 'the secret place' and 'the shadow of the Almighty' — where a person finds rest and protection. It's an image of nearness: staying close to God as the place of safety.
Context
Psalm 91 is a psalm of trust that develops the picture of God as protector across its whole length, describing deliverance from various dangers (snares, pestilence, terror, arrows). Verse 1 sets the condition — 'dwelling' in that secret place — that the rest of the psalm's promises of protection flow from.
Key themes
Related Bible verses
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.
The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
Bible study
- What might it mean practically to 'dwell' in God's secret place, rather than just visit it occasionally?
- How do 'shadow' and 'secret place' work together as images of closeness and protection?
- What would abiding closer to God look like in your daily routine?
Prayer
A short devotional prayer inspired by this verse — not scripture
Most High God, I want to dwell close to You, not just visit You in emergencies. Be my shelter and my shadow today. Amen.
Memorize this verse
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
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Frequently asked questions
What is 'the secret place of the most High'?
It's a poetic image for close, abiding fellowship with God — a place of intimacy and shelter, rather than a literal physical location.
Who traditionally is credited with writing Psalm 91?
The psalm itself doesn't name an author in most manuscripts, though various Jewish and Christian traditions have associated it with Moses or David; its authorship is not stated definitively in the text.