The phrase "privily laid a snare for me" comes from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible and appears in Psalm 142:3, where David laments that his enemies have set traps for him in secret. This expression conveys the idea of hidden dangers, deception, and spiritual attacks, often orchestrated by those who seek to harm or mislead.
In this topic, we will explore the biblical meaning of this phrase, the spiritual significance of snares, and how believers can overcome deception through faith and divine wisdom.
Understanding "Privily Laid a Snare for Me" in the Bible
The Biblical Context
The phrase originates from Psalm 142:3, where David cries out to God:
"When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, then thou knewest my path. In the way wherein I walked have they privily laid a snare for me." (KJV)
David was often pursued by enemies, particularly King Saul, who sought to destroy him. He experienced betrayal, false accusations, and numerous attempts to trap him physically and spiritually. This psalm reflects his deep trust in God amid adversity.
Other Biblical References to Snares
The Bible frequently warns about snares, both physical and spiritual:
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Psalm 140:5 – "The proud have hid a snare for me, and cords; they have spread a net by the wayside; they have set gins for me."
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Proverbs 29:6 – "In the transgression of an evil man there is a snare: but the righteous doth sing and rejoice."
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1 Peter 5:8 – "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour."
From these verses, it is evident that traps can be set by enemies, the wicked, and even Satan himself to lead people astray.
The Spiritual Meaning of Snares
1. Snares as Spiritual Attacks
Many believers face hidden traps set by the enemy in the form of temptation, deceit, or persecution. These snares are designed to:
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Distract believers from God’s purpose.
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Lead them into sin or compromise.
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Cause fear, doubt, or despair.
The devil is known as the deceiver, and he works through subtle lies and manipulations to entangle people in spiritual bondage.
2. Snares as Deception and False Teachings
Jesus and the apostles warned that in the last days, many false prophets and teachers would arise, leading people into deception.
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2 Timothy 3:13 – "But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived."
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Matthew 24:24 – "For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect."
False doctrines and twisting of God’s Word are snares that trap people in spiritual confusion and separation from God’s truth.
How to Recognize and Avoid Snares
1. Stay Rooted in God’s Word
The best way to avoid deception is to have a strong foundation in Scripture. Jesus Himself used the Word of God to resist Satan’s temptations (Matthew 4:1-11).
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Psalm 119:105 – "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."
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2 Timothy 2:15 – "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
2. Be Spiritually Discerned
Discernment is a gift of the Holy Spirit that allows believers to recognize falsehoods and traps.
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Hebrews 5:14 – "But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil."
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1 John 4:1 – "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world."
Through prayer and seeking God’s wisdom, believers can avoid falling into hidden dangers.
3. Guard Your Heart and Mind
Many snares come through negative thoughts, fear, and anxiety. The enemy often works through doubt and discouragement to weaken faith.
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Philippians 4:6-7 – "Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."
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Proverbs 4:23 – "Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life."
Believers should fill their hearts with God’s truth, prayer, and worship to keep their minds strong.
4. Seek God’s Protection Through Prayer
David constantly prayed for protection from snares. Prayer is a powerful weapon against hidden dangers.
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Psalm 91:3 – "Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence."
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Ephesians 6:11 – "Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil."
Praying for wisdom, protection, and discernment helps believers stay spiritually alert.
Overcoming Snares with God’s Help
1. Trust in God’s Deliverance
God promises to rescue His people from hidden traps.
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Psalm 124:7 – "Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers: the snare is broken, and we are escaped."
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2 Samuel 22:31 – "As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all them that trust in him."
Even when believers fall into snares, God is able to break every chain and restore them.
2. Walk in Obedience and Righteousness
Living in obedience to God prevents unnecessary entanglements with sin and deception.
- Psalm 37:23-24 – "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand."
By following God’s will, believers can avoid many of the enemy’s traps.
3. Surround Yourself with Godly Counsel
Having wise, godly mentors and Christian fellowship provides protection against deception.
- Proverbs 11:14 – "Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counselors there is safety."
A strong Christian community helps believers stay accountable and avoid spiritual pitfalls.
The phrase "privily laid a snare for me" serves as a warning about hidden dangers, spiritual attacks, and deception. However, the Bible reassures believers that God provides wisdom, protection, and deliverance from every trap of the enemy.
By staying rooted in Scripture, developing discernment, guarding their hearts, and relying on prayer, believers can walk in spiritual victory and avoid the snares of the enemy.
God is faithful, and those who trust in Him will always find a way of escape from every hidden trap.