Prayer is practicing the presence of God. In prayer we put aside our pride and false hopes, and admit our failures. In prayer, we admit our need, take on humility, and affirm our complete dependence on God. In prayer, we grow in intimacy with God. We partner with the Holy Spirit in the work of interceding for others. In prayer, we not only receive help and answers from God, but our lives are transformed into answers to prayer as well.

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 10For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. 13If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!" 
-- Luke 11:9-10, 13

"Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
-- Phil. 4:6-7

Lord, in Your mercy, hear our prayer.