What does Psalm 91:5 mean?

This reference plays on humanity's natural fear of darkness, which is both emotional and practical. In the ancient world, there were no electric lights or city lamp posts. Some of the more potent dangers came by night, such as wild animals and bandits. An enemy could hide under the cover of darkness before springing a surprise attack. Even today, nighttime seems to increase the frequency of crime. Robberies, burglaries, assaults, and murder occur more often during the night than during the day. Of course, daytime in the era of the Old Testament had its own dangers: sunlight allowed enemies to see targets clearly and shoot arrows at victims.

Jesus' own interpretation of passages such as this (Psalm 91:11–12; Matthew 4:5–7) clarifies that God does not promise His people invincibility. And yet, the best protection we can hope for begins with the stable, powerful protection offered by being close to God and His truth (Psalm 91:1–2; Proverbs 1:7).

In Psalm 23 David expressed trust in the Lord during a challenging time. He wrote: "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me" (Psalm 23:4).