How can we trust God against "the pestilence that stalks in darkness"? Setting the Scene Psalm 91 sketches a vivid contrast: danger lurks on every side, yet the one who “dwells in the shelter of the Most High” (Psalm 91:1) remains secure. Verse 6 singles out “the pestilence that stalks in darkness,” an unseen, creeping threat. How do we place unshakable trust in God when disease—or any hidden evil—works under cover of night? What “Pestilence” Means for Us Today • In the psalmist’s day: literal outbreaks that swept through camps and cities. • In our day: viruses, unseen spiritual assaults, sudden crises that feel random and uncontrollable. • Whether microscopic or spiritual, the common thread is stealth. Nightfall simply highlights our human inability to see and control. Why We Can Trust God 1. His Nature • Sovereign: “Our God is in heaven; He does whatever pleases Him” (Psalm 115:3). • Good: “For the LORD is good; His loving devotion endures forever” (Psalm 100:5). • Protector: “He will cover you with His feathers; under His wings you will find refuge” (Psalm 91:4). 2. His Track Record • Israel in Egypt: the Passover night spared those under the blood (Exodus 12). • David delivered from plague after repentance (2 Samuel 24:25). • Believers today testify of healing, provision, and peace in crises. 3. His Promises are Literal and Unbreakable • “No evil will befall you, no plague will approach your tent” (Psalm 91:10). • Jesus reaffirms God’s keeping power: “Not a hair of your head will perish” (Luke 21:18). Living Out Psalm 91:6 • Dwell, don’t visit—make daily communion with God your home (Psalm 91:1). • Speak the truth—declare aloud the promises you read (Romans 10:17). • Obey promptly—trust is proved by action (James 2:22). • Reject fear—“God has not given us a spirit of fear” (2 Timothy 1:7). • Intercede for others—Job’s healing came as he prayed for friends (Job 42:10). When Sickness Still Comes Trust never denies reality; it clings to a higher one. Even Paul left Trophimus ill in Miletus (2 Timothy 4:20), yet proclaimed God’s faithfulness. Should affliction touch us: • Fix eyes on eternity—present trials are “light and momentary” (2 Corinthians 4:17). • Receive grace in weakness—His power “is perfected in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). • Anticipate ultimate deliverance—there is a resurrection body awaiting (1 Corinthians 15:52-53). A Daily Trust Routine 1. Morning: read Psalm 91 aloud, personalizing the pronouns. 2. Midday: pause to thank God for specific protections you’ve experienced. 3. Evening: review the day, note evidence of His faithfulness, surrender unknowns of the night. Closing Encouragement The “pestilence that stalks in darkness” is real, but more real is the One who “never slumbers or sleeps” (Psalm 121:4). Stay under His wings, speak His Word, and rest—night holds no terror when the Almighty keeps watch. |
    |