THEOSISAugustine of Hippo
This psalm serves as the basis for the devil's temptation of our Lord Jesus Christ. We should therefore remain vigilant, equipping ourselves with its teachings so that we can effectively resist the tempter. Our strength comes not from ourselves but from Him who has faced temptation before us. If we listen attentively to His responses to the devil, we can likewise respond when we ourselves are tested. We can enter through the gate described in the Gospel, which signifies coming to God through Christ, who declared, “I am the door” (John 10:7). Entering through Him means following His example. He calls us to emulate Him in ways that were only made possible through His incarnation; for how could He have endured suffering had He not been made flesh?
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Without His humanity, how could He have faced death, crucifixion, and humiliation?
When facing the trials of this world, inflicted on us either directly by the devil through others or indirectly, as seen with Job, we must remain steadfast and patient. True protection under the Most High is promised to those who endure, for straying from such divine assistance leaves one vulnerable to downfall. Many demonstrate courage in the face of human persecution, believing they imitate Christ’s sufferings; yet when confronted with the hidden assaults of the devil, they doubt their worthiness of His glory. Fear not, for when the devil tempted our Lord, he did so in solitude, yet He triumphed both in secret and when openly attacked.
We must address the secret assaults of the enemy—a subtle urge towards harm manifesting in physical ailments or sicknesses reminiscent of Job’s trials. He discerned that the devil’s power was granted only by God and thus attributed all glory to the Almighty. Likewise, those who faithfully imitate Christ, bearing the troubles of this life while placing all hope in God, will not succumb to panic or despair. In doing so, they dwell in the safety of the Most High, as this psalm expresses—"He that dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty" (Psalm 91:1).
When difficulties arise, trust that the Lord is your refuge and fortress. The one who dwells near Him, unlike those who fell into sin as Adam did, will find protection. The proud, who sought to elevate themselves, indeed lost their place. Cast your trust solely upon Him. As the psalm advises, “Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler” (Psalm 91:3). He promises to remove you from traps set by the hunter, the snares of harsh words, and public insults that bring shame. The devil, like a hunter, lays traps for the unsuspecting, but those who walk in Christ remain safe, as the net can only catch the unwary.
Many have stumbled into traps due to harsh words from those who mock their faith. The enemy may spread nets for believers, but remember that vigilance in Christ provides strength against such declarations. Know that if you remain true to your faith, these words cannot touch you. You may encounter scorn, yet do not yield, as this only draws you further into the traps set by your adversary.
Whenever you face scorn, recall that even Christ faced accusations, yet He did not falter. When the devils send forth their taunts, remind yourself that you stand for righteousness. “He will cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you will find refuge” (Psalm 91:4) serves to assure you that your defense is not your own, but comes from God’s safeguarding. His wings provide shelter, positioning you between His shoulders—shielded from harm.
Trust in His divine protection, for nothing shall befall you while you remain steadfast in faith. The psalm assures us that, devoid of fear, we can tread upon the lion and the serpent (Psalm 91:13) for we resonate with the courageous heart of the Church, navigating trials with the knowledge that we are upheld by God's providence.
To those who exhibit love for Him, God promises deliverance (Psalm 91:14). Even amidst trials, God is ever present in times of trouble (Psalm 91:15), urging us to call upon Him confidently. Like a ship on choppy waters with Christ seemingly asleep, do not despair; awaken your faith as you might rouse Him from slumber. Remember, trials are not signs of abandonment, but opportunities to witness His faithfulness.
With the assurance of enduring life to come, we must dedicate ourselves to seeking the eternal reward. Yearn not for temporary gain but for the everlasting promises that come from God. This is the essence of our hope: to experience and behold salvation in its fullness through Christ, who offers us eternity (Psalm 91:16). Thus, let us aspire to see Him as He truly is, through faith, until the day we witness Him face to face. As we journey through life, let our devotion lead us towards the heavenly, leaving all fears behind. "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:21).