Prayer Part 1

The first topic I would like to pursue with everyone is prayer.

What is prayer? What is your definition of prayer?

The bible dictionary says this about prayer:

As soon as we learn the true relationship in which we stand toward God (namely, God is our Father, and we are his children), then at once prayer becomes natural and instinctive on our part (Matt. 7:7–11). Many of the so-called difficulties about prayer arise from forgetting this relationship. Prayer is the act by which the will of the Father and the will of the child are brought into correspondence with each other. The object of prayer is not to change the will of God, but to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that God is already willing to grant, but that are made conditional on our asking for them. Blessings require some work or effort on our part before we can obtain them. Prayer is a form of work, and is an appointed means for obtaining the highest of all blessings.

A couple of additional questions I invite everyone to contribute answers and perspective to:

How has prayer helped you to overcome challenges you face?
How has prayer helped you approach your day in a different way?
What are some ideas you use to help focus your prayers?

I would love to get your perspectives and experiences, and then compile then in a family "book of remembrance" of some type. More to come on prayer in the coming days. Looking forward to your comments!