Prayer

Prayer is request. The essence of request, as distinct from compulsion, is that it may or may not be granted. And if an infinitely wise Being listens to the requests of finite and foolish creatures, of course He will sometimes grant and sometimes refuse them.

C. S. Lewis

Prayer is a real relationship, not magic. When we ask Him for good gifts—something He encourages us to do—we should remember that we’re talking to someone who loves us, wants what’s best for us, and knows what we really need.

(taken from Inspired Faith)