What makes prayer meaningful & effective?

Biblically, prayer is meaningful not as a formula or ritual, but as a sincere, heartfelt conversation that aligns the believer’s will with God's, fosters a relationship with Him, and expresses faith, humility, and dependence on Him. Biblically, an effective prayer is the alignment of the mind, will and emotions with God’s will. According to James 5:16, the prayer of a "righteous person" has great power as it is working—meaning God hears and acts through the lives of those walking in obedience to Him. Both are characterized by honest, simple communication—"pouring out the heart"—rather than impressing God with eloquent words. Be encouraged!

~Dr. Robert L. Taylor, Th.D., Bible teacher & expositor