What does Psalm 91:3 mean?

This verse uses two interesting metaphors to continue praising God for His protection. The first is the "fowler's snare." Bird hunters in that era mostly relied on trickery. One common tactic was to trap younger birds and place them in cages to lure others. The bird-catchers would hide themselves, or their nets, to surprise the animals and entrap them.

Scripture portrays Satan as setting traps to catch believers. Paul gave instructions to Timothy regarding the office of an overseer. He indicated such leaders should have a good reputation, "so that he may not fall into disgrace, into a snare of the devil" (1 Timothy 3:7). The psalmist indicates that the Lord will not allow His people to succumb to traps; those who remain close to Him (Psalm 91:2) are in a place of safety against such schemes. Or, at least, in a better position to survive them if they should fall.

Sickness has been part of the world ever since the fall of Adam. Common dangers mentioned in texts such as the Old Testament are invasions, diseases, and natural disasters (1 Kings 8:37). While the promises of God do not guarantee a person will never suffer physical harm, the psalmist trusts that God will keep him safe. Those who honor Godly wisdom (Proverbs 1:7) give themselves a better chance of avoiding disaster (Proverbs 14:12).