Psalms 91 - Introduction

A.M. 2987. B.C. 1017.

It is not certain who was the author of this Psalm, but “the occasion,” says Bishop Patrick, “seems to have been some great pestilence; in which, as in all other dangers, the psalmist commends an humble confidence in God, and ardent love to him, as the best security. Now there is no pestilence,” adds he, “so likely to have given occasion to it, as that in the latter end of David's reign,” 2 Samuel 24. Poole, with many others, agree with the bishop in this opinion, and not a few suppose that David was the author of the Psalm, although it does not bear his name, the style and matter of it resembling those of several of his Psalms. He here shows,

(1,) The safety of those who put themselves under the divine protection in times of danger, Psalms 91:1.

(2,) Declares it to be his resolution to do this, Psalms 91:2.

(3,) Makes various promises to such, Psalms 91:3.

(4,) Introduces God himself as confirming these promises, Psalms 91:14.