avatarRichard Armstrong

Summary

The article discusses the spiritual benefits of embracing Christianity, particularly the concept of the "secret place of the Most High" as described in Psalm 91, and how these benefits are accessible only to followers of Jesus.

Abstract

The narrative begins with a personal anecdote of the author's journey in India, where reciting Psalm 91 brought about a sense of peace and protection despite the unfamiliar and potentially fearful circumstances. The author emphasizes that this divine protection, referred to as the "secret place," is a privilege reserved for those who have accepted Jesus as their Savior. This spiritual sanctuary is said to provide followers with peace of mind, shielding them from unnecessary fears and granting them calmness amidst life's challenges. The article underscores the importance of not only entering this secret place through faith in Jesus but also dwelling there continuously. It is highlighted that the benefits of this divine refuge are exclusive to believers, as non-believers remain unaware of its existence. The author concludes with an invitation to accept Jesus, thereby gaining access to the secret place and its accompanying promises and protections.

Opinions

  • The author believes that the peace and protection offered by the "secret place of the Most High" are exclusive to Christians who have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior.
  • Non-believers are depicted as unable to access or understand the spiritual benefits of this secret place because it is intended solely for followers of God.
  • The article suggests that living daily in God's presence and following Jesus are essential for experiencing the full benefits of the secret place, as outlined in Psalm 91.
  • The author expresses that accepting Jesus is the beginning of a journey that leads to a life filled with God's peace and protection, even in the face of adversity.
  • There is an opinion that the calmness displayed by Christians in difficult situations is a testament to the power of their faith and the protection provided by their relationship with God.
  • The author implies that the promises of God, such as His response in times of trouble, are available to those who call upon Him in faith, which is a benefit of being in the secret place.

Scripture prompt

Why the Secret Place of the Highest Benefits Some and Not Others

You are the one with the power to unlock this benefit

Photo by Ben White on Unsplash

I was eleven and a half time zones from home. We were traveling on a road I never traveled before. Plus, we were driving on the wrong side of the road. Did I mention it was night time? My native Indian pastor was driving his Jeep without headlights turned on.

Then, he began reciting aloud Psalm 91. He spoke the complete chapter from memory. With the first two verses, my fear of the unknown drained from my mind. I sensed an unexplainable peace welling up within me. My first trip to India had begun.

My Indian pastor friend had driven from Bangalore to Rayakotta many times. The trip was one and a half hours. He knew his destination. I trusted my driver completely.

He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High Shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him, I will trust.” (Psalm 91:1–2, NKJV)

Suppose you are reading this and have not accepted Jesus as your Savior and Lord. In that case, I do not expect you to understand what is the secret place. Because it is available only to followers of God. So, to those who do not follow God, it remains a secret.

You can open the door to God’s secret by believing and confessing Jesus today.

‘… if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.‘ ( Romans 10:9–10, NKJV)

If you have spoken, Jesus is Lord and confirmed your acceptance in your heart. You have stepped over the threshold into God’s amazing ‘secret place.’ This is the day you write a new script for your life.

You see, Christians have something others without Him do not have. When we abide in Him, He protects our minds from unnecessary fears. This secret place explains the unexplainable. This is why we have peace when difficulties come our way. Our families and friends are amazed at the impossible calmness we display.

“We forget that ‘impossible’ is one of God’s favorite words” – Max Lucado.

But, there is one crucial part of having a secret place. We are to dwell there, live daily in God’s presence.

Accepting Jesus as Savior is the beginning of the trip.

To enjoy the benefits of Psalm 91, we must follow Jesus.

Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” (John 8:12, NKJV) (My emphasis)

Even riding in a Jeep at night with the headlights turned off, I had peace since following Jesus led me into His secret hiding place.

“If God be our God, He will give us peace in trouble. When there is a storm without, He will make peace within. The world can create trouble in peace, but God can create peace in trouble.” -Thomas Watson

Why does the secret place of the Highest benefit some and not others?

I’m so glad you asked.

You see, there are many benefits to following Jesus as the Lord of our life. One benefit is God has built a secret place available to protect His followers. Those not having accepted Jesus do not see the door marked; God’s Secret Place. This is why the unbelieving do not benefit.

Oh, did I mention when entering God’s secret place there are promises available to you? I’ll give you one.

He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. (Psalms 91:15, NKJV)

You are the one having the power to unlock this benefit

Accept Jesus today and the door to the secret place will swing wide open for you.

My prayer; Lord Jesus, open the minds and hearts of people reading this to accept and follow Jesus today. Amen.

Richard

Encouraging, empowering, and entertaining. In Christ.
Christianity
Relationships
Life Lessons
Inspiration
Scripture Prompt
Recommended from ReadMedium