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Psalm 91:6

ESV nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness, nor the destruction that wastes at noonday.
NIV nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday.
NASB Of the plague that stalks in darkness, Or of the destruction that devastates at noon.
CSB the plague that stalks in darkness, or the pestilence that ravages at noon.
NLT Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness, nor the disaster that strikes at midday.
KJV Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
NKJV Nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, Nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday.

What does Psalm 91:6 mean?

Here the psalmist continues using dramatic imagery to describe human fears. Darkness—especially in an era without electricity or easy access to lights—was a more dangerous condition than it is today. Disease was more difficult to predict or cure, and water and food could more easily be contaminated. The "destruction that wastes at noonday" may refer to the scorching effects of the sun and heat. Despite those dangers, however, those who trust in God have reasons for confidence.

Scripture does not promise invincibility (Psalm 91:11–12; Matthew 4:5–7), but it does remind us that a sovereign God is in control. He offers not only His divine presence, but things like wisdom, human medicine, and other mundane means of assistance. God protected His people during their wilderness wanderings by giving them health laws. The book of Leviticus contains many distinctions between what the Israelites could eat and what they were forbidden to eat (Leviticus 11).

Likewise, believers today can trust the Lord and need not fear deadly disease; they should also avail themselves of medical help and practice healthy habits. Although the apostle Paul exercised strong faith in the Lord, he was accompanied on his missionary journeys by Luke, who was the beloved physician (Colossians 4:14).
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