Psalms 91

Psalms 91:1-16 . David is the most probable author; and the pestilence, mentioned in 2 Samuel 24:13-15 , the most probable of any special occasion to which the Psalm may refer. The changes of person allowable in poetry are here frequently made.

1. dwelleth in the secret place--( Psalms 27:5 , 31:20 ) denotes nearness to God. Such as do so abide or lodge secure from assaults, and can well use the terms of trust in Psalms 91:2 .

3. snares . . . [and] . . . noisome pestilence--literally, "plagues of mischiefs" ( Psalms 5:9 , 52:7 ), are expressive figures for various evils.

4. For the first figure compare Deuteronomy 32:11 , Matthew 23:37 .
buckler--literally, "surrounding"--that is, a kind of shield covering all over.

5. terror--or, what causes it ( Proverbs 20:2 ).
by night--then aggravated.
arrow--that is, of enemies.

7, 8. The security is more valuable, as being special, and, therefore, evidently of God; and while ten thousands of the wicked fall, the righteous are in such safety that they only see the calamity.

9-12. This exemption from evil is the result of trust in God, who employs angels as ministering spirits ( Hebrews 1:14 ).

13. Even the fiercest, strongest, and most insidious animals may be trampled on with impunity.

14-16. God Himself speaks (compare Psalms 46:10 , Psalms 75:2 Psalms 75:3 ). All the terms to express safety and peace indicate the most undoubting confidence (compare Psalms 18:2 , 20:1 , 22:5 ).
set his love--that of the most ardent kind.

16. show him--literally, "make him see" ( Psalms 50:23 , Luke 2:30 ).