What makes Psalm 91:1 a powerful and effective prayer?

Psalm 91 is a psalm full of promises, but it also has conditions attached to those promises. Choosing to live in the shelter of God’s presence is the primary condition, and it is repeated in verse 9, “If you make the Most High your dwelling….”

This psalm is clearly for those who are living in God’s presence or “dwelling in the secret place” with Him (KJV). We’re living in His presence when we intentionally turn our minds toward Him throughout the day (Colossians 3:2; Hebrews 12:2). As we do, we are assured that we will rest in His shadow, be covered with His feathers and find refuge beneath His wings (vv. 1, 4). As we choose to live in His presence, He will command His angels to guard us (v. 9, 11).

This verse makes a powerful and effective prayer because God promises to answer when we pray His will, and as He answers this particular prayer, the promises of this psalm will be meant for us.