Daily Devotions

It is well known that the Book of Psalms is a collection of prayers, poems, and hymns that focus the worshiper’s thoughts on God in praise and adoration. Parts of this book were used as a hymnal in the worship services of ancient Israel. The musical heritage of the psalms is demonstrated by its title. The word Psalms comes from a Greek word which means "a song sung to the accompaniment of a musical instrument.”

Individual psalms come from diverse periods of Israel’s history, but at every stage they served as the songbook of God’s people. David wrote about half of the Psalms. His role as king was more than that of a ruler. He was to represent and even embody the people, and their well-being presented through his faithfulness. As such, David writes as a representative, and the readers must discern whether the emphasis of a psalm is more on his role as ruler or more on his role as ideal Israelite, in which he is an example for all. The historical occasions mentioned in the psalm titles help the reader see how faith applies to real-life situations.

There are number of themes addressed in the Psalms with the collection of hymns including, Laments, Hymns of praise, thanksgiving and celebrations of God’s law. As with laments, there are community and individual thanksgiving psalms. Others could be described as Wisdom psalms, Songs of confidence, which enable worshipers to deepen their trust in God amid difficult circumstances and Royal Psalms that relate to the Monarchy and the Messiah. The final two categories are Historical and Prophetic psalms.

Psalms 91 is perhaps one of the noblest in the whole collection. "He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty." This Psalm stands out from the others because of the beautiful word pictures the author creates. If Psalm 23 is a loving shepherd, Psalm 91 is a loving protector and defender.

On very hot days, where do you find relief? In the shade! The shadow cast by a large object or building allows us to hide from the intense heat of the sun. Verse 1 says, “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.” Debbie McDaniel writes, “Shadows, by definition are a place of protection or covering, they provide relief from the direct heat of the sun. If the heat is severe, the shadow is the place we run to … when we are resting in God’s shadow, we will never face the full heat of our difficulties. He shelters us from that pain”

Prayer of Saint Boniface (672-754) 

Eternal God, the refuge and help of all your children,

we praise you for all you have given us,

for all you have done for us,

for all that you are to us.

In our weakness, you are strength,

in our darkness, you are light,

in our sorrow, you are comfort and peace.

We cannot number your blessings,

we cannot declare your love:

For all your blessings we bless you.

May we live as in your presence,

and love the things that you love,

and serve you in our daily lives;

through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen