Psalm 91

Unnammed author.

A declaration.  A pronouncement. A word of hope and encouragement. and a promise.

The Psalm starts with a statement and an announcement, using 4 words to describe the shelter and protection found in God.  
Declaration:  "He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High
                    shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
Pronouncement:  I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress;
                         My God, in Him will I trust.
    Secret place:  no one can find me.
    Shadow:    unseen.  protected by cover.
    refuge:  protector, safe place.
    fortress:  strong defense that cannot be broken.

Based on his knowledge of God, he makes these statements, then he offers encouragement and hope to his audience.  It appears the occasion might have been a time of war.

Threats are described:
    the snare of the fowler (traps, unseen dangers)
    pestilence (epidemic)
    terror by night (intense fear of what might come out of the darkness, or await at the dawn.
        Also, a nightime attack)
    the arrow:  success of the enemies weapons.
    destruction.  Losing the battle; losing men, possessions, and ground.

But the hope.........
 for those who dwell in the secret place of the Most High,
 and under the shadow of the Almighty,
 and claim Him as their refuge and fortress.....

  ......is that they will see these thins, but not experience them.  It will come at them,
   but not near them!  They will, however see God's judgement on the wicked (enemy).

Because they have chosen God (and nothing else like might, ally, or numbers) as their refuge and dwelling place, no evil will come near.  God will send angels to help.....to keep you in all your ways and protect and bear you up.  You will be successful.....conquering even the snake and the lion.
(note the snake is a lowly threat, stealthy and deadly, but quiet and small.  The lion is large, fierce and strong.......describing all kinds of threats.)

Then God speaks.  Because you have set your love upon me, I will deliver.  I will set on high, because you have known My Name (character).  I will answer your call to Me......and will deliver and honor you.  I will satisfy you with long life, and show you My salvation.
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What comfort when we face 'the enemy' whether it be war-time or spiritual battles.
But......my concern is that the beginning part of the psalm is often lost.  

These precious words are true for the one who runs to God.....not only in time of trouble,
but dwells there.......stays through thick and thin, good times and bad, joy and sorrow, ease and trial.

May we not claim the promise without living the declaration and the proclamation!
Only then can we know the words of hope and encouragement are true for us!