Use language that shows love, respect, reverence, and closeness. We must be careful to avoid “vain repetitions” when we pray (see Matthew 6:7). To make our prayers meaningful, we must pray with sincerity and “with all the energy of heart” ( Moroni 7:48). The prophet Mormon warned that if anyone “shall pray and not with real intent of heart … it profiteth him nothing, for God receiveth none such” ( Moroni 7:9). As we strive to make prayer a part of our lives, we should remember this counsel: Our Heavenly Father is always ready to hear and answer our prayers. We will be able to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that He is ready to give if we will but ask in faith. As we make a habit of approaching God in prayer, we will come to know Him and draw ever nearer to Him. The Lord Jesus Christ commanded, “Ye must always pray unto the Father in my name” ( 3 Nephi 18:19). He loves us and knows our needs, and He wants us to communicate with Him through prayer.
