Psalms – Chapter 90

Old Testament16 Verses

1The praise of a canticle for David. He that dwelleth in the aid of the most High, shall abide under the protection of the God of Jacob.

2He shall say to the Lord: Thou art my protector, and my refuge: my God, in him will I trust.

3For he hath delivered me from the snare of the hunters: and from the sharp word.

4He will overshadow thee with his shoulders: and under his wings thou shalt trust.

5His truth shall compass thee with a shield: thou shalt not be afraid of the terror of the night.

6Of the arrow that flieth in the day, of the business that walketh about in the dark: of invasion, or of the noonday devil.

7A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand: but it shall not come nigh thee.

8But thou shalt consider with thy eyes: and shalt see the reward of the wicked.

9Because thou, O Lord, art my hope: thou hast made the most High thy refuge.

10There shall no evil come to thee: nor shall the scourge come near thy dwelling.

11For he hath given his angels charge over thee; to keep thee in all thy ways.

12In their hands they shall bear thee up: lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.

13Thou shalt walk upon the asp and the basilisk: and thou shalt trample under foot the lion and the dragon.

14Because he hoped in me I will deliver him: I will protect him because he hath known my name.

15He shall cry to me, and I will hear him: I am with him in tribulation, I will deliver him, and I will glorify him.

16I will fill him with length of days; and I will shew him my salvation.

Reflection for Today

Psalms Chapter 90 continues the biblical theme of prayer, praise, and the full range of human emotion before God. According to Catholic teaching, the Psalms are the prayer book of the Church, prayed daily in the Liturgy of the Hours (CIC 2585-2589). This chapter invites us to reflect on God invites us to bring all our emotions to Him.

The Church Fathers and saints have meditated on these passages for centuries, finding in them nourishment for the spiritual life. The Catechism teaches that "the Sacred Scriptures contain the Word of God and, because they are inspired, they are truly the Word of God" (CIC 135). As we read this chapter, we join the great Tradition of Catholic biblical interpretation.

Catholic spirituality encourages us to approach Scripture with faith, seeking not merely information but transformation. Through the practice of lectio divina—reading, meditation, prayer, and contemplation—we allow God's Word to penetrate our hearts. May this chapter deepen your love for God and neighbor, and strengthen your commitment to live the Gospel in daily life.

💡Catholic Reflection • Church Teachings

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