A psalm of protection and healing in Iran
A Christian Science perspective.
For those who are fighting for freedom in Iran and in other countries all over the world, the 91st Psalm provides a powerful promise.
At times of fear or danger, the psalm has helped many who have turned to it for protection. It is a prayer that will lead out of danger and fear each individual who turns to God as omnipresent good. It can also be a guide for those of us who want to help however we can.
The opening verse of the psalm declares: "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." This promise of deliverance from evil makes known the conditions under which security may be realized. It is because one makes God his or her refuge that another promise is given: "There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling." Neither pestilence nor destruction shall harm the one who abides under God's shadow.
I have found it helpful to think of "the secret place of the most High" as our consciousness. Jesus taught that the kingdom of God is found within us, within our own consciousness. God speaks to all of us in our consciousness through spiritual thoughts that lift us beyond fear, destruction, revenge. In the presence of a God who is all and only Love, there is deliverance from evil. When we abide in this place, we are shielded from danger.
Mary Baker Eddy, who discovered Christian Science, commented on another verse in the psalm, "He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways." She wrote: "God gives you His spiritual ideas, and in turn, they give you daily supplies. Never ask for to-morrow: it is enough that divine Love is an ever-present help; and if you wait, never doubting, you will have all you need every moment" ("Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896," p. 307).
How encouraging it is to think of divine Love as "an ever-present help," especially in cases like Iran where people demonstrating for freedom may be in danger. It is a promise that God will take charge over us, through inspired and uplifting ideas that heal and protect. When people keep their thoughts close to God, and really strive to do His will, it's possible to feel His presence guiding them. Following the leading of divine Love, they will be less fearful, and be kept safe from danger.
The promise of freedom comes right out of the heart of infinite Love, the Father-Mother God to all His children. Freedom is for all, and we can claim our God-given rights and not be afraid. This prayer involves entering the secret place of the most High – the consciousness of God's kingdom within us – and knowing that God protects, guards, and guides us.
The psalm concludes with joy and praise: "He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation."
God is always with us wherever and whenever we turn to Him in prayer. In this prayer of praise, we can find an inner peace that frees us from fear and enables us to trust divine Love's allness and goodness. This prayer of faith helps us discern whatever is not God-like, and to trust only good. In the secret place, everyone seeking freedom can abide under His mighty wings and be safe.