What is the secret place mentioned in the Bible, particularly in Psalm 91?

What exactly does Psalm 91 mean by “the secret place of the Most High,” and how does one enter into and abide in this secret place? Is it a literal place, a state of mind, a spiritual condition, or something else entirely? Are there specific practices, beliefs, or actions required to access this “secret place,” and what are the tangible benefits, according to the Psalm and other biblical passages, of dwelling there? How has this concept been interpreted and practiced throughout Christian history, and are there any variations in understanding among different denominations or theological perspectives? Can you provide specific examples from scripture or historical accounts of individuals who, in your interpretation, were dwelling in the “secret place” of the Most High?

Answer

The "secret place" mentioned in Psalm 91 refers to a state of intimate communion and dwelling with God, offering protection and security. It’s not a physical location but a spiritual reality accessible to those who trust in and abide in God.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• Psalm 91:1: "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty." This verse establishes the core concept. "Dwelling" implies a consistent, habitual residence, not a fleeting visit. "Secret place" is often interpreted as a metaphor for the inner sanctuary of God’s presence, a place of intimacy and close relationship. "Most High" (El Elyon) and "Almighty" (Shaddai) are powerful names of God that emphasize His sovereignty and strength.

• Nature of the Secret Place: It’s not a geographical location but a spiritual condition. It’s achieved through faith, prayer, obedience, and a deep, personal relationship with God. Entering this place involves seeking God’s presence, meditating on His word, and trusting in His promises.

• Benefits of Dwelling in the Secret Place: Psalm 91 outlines numerous blessings for those who reside in this spiritual haven:

  • Protection from harm (verses 3-7): Refuge from pestilence, terror, arrows, and destruction.
  • Angelic protection (verse 11): God commands His angels to guard those who dwell in Him.
  • Deliverance from trouble (verse 14-16): God promises to deliver, protect, answer, and honor those who love Him.
  • Long life (verse 16): God promises to satisfy them with long life and show them His salvation.

• How to Enter and Remain in the Secret Place: The Psalm itself implies the method:

  • Dwelling (verse 1): This requires a conscious decision to make God the center of one’s life.
  • Trust (verse 2): Declaring God as refuge and fortress signifies unwavering faith.
  • Love (verse 14): Setting your love upon God.
  • Knowing His name (verse 14): Having a personal and intimate understanding of God’s character.
  • Calling upon Him (verse 15): Consistent prayer and communication with God.
• Theological Significance: The concept of the "secret place" aligns with other biblical themes of intimacy with God, such as:
  • The Holy of Holies: In the Old Testament tabernacle and temple, the Holy of Holies was the innermost sanctuary, representing God’s presence. Only the high priest could enter, and that only once a year. Through Jesus Christ, all believers now have access to God’s presence.
  • Abiding in Christ (John 15): Jesus uses the analogy of the vine and branches to illustrate the importance of remaining connected to Him for spiritual life and fruitfulness.
  • Prayer Closet (Matthew 6:6): Jesus encourages believers to go into their "inner room" (closet) to pray in secret to their Father.

In essence, the "secret place" is a metaphor for a life lived in close communion with God, characterized by trust, obedience, and a deep, personal relationship. It is a state of being accessible to all believers, offering protection, provision, and peace.

Pray This Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come before you today, seeking refuge and strength. We yearn to understand the secret place, that hallowed space spoken of in Psalm 91. What is this dwelling in the shelter of the Most High, this abiding in the shadow of the Almighty?

Is it a physical location, Lord, a sanctuary we can find in a quiet corner of the world? Or is it something deeper, a place within our hearts where we can connect with you, a fortress of faith built on the foundation of your love?

We pray for discernment to know and access this secret place. Help us to quiet the noise of the world, to silence the anxieties that clamor for our attention. Teach us to find you in the stillness, to hear your voice above the din, to feel your presence surrounding us like a shield.

Open our hearts to understand that this secret place is not earned, but offered freely through your grace. It is a place of trust, a place of surrender, a place where we lay down our burdens and embrace your peace.

Grant us the wisdom to dwell in this secret place always, to find in you our refuge from the storms of life, our protection from the unseen dangers, our strength in times of weakness.

May we be ever mindful of your promise: that those who dwell in the secret place of the Most High will abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth, and the life, and who leads us to your everlasting presence.

Amen.