And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us.
(1 John 5:14)

When you pray, you need to know what you are praying for, and you need to know that your prayer is according to God's will. You need to pray specifically and strategically.

Jesus prayed specifically. In John 17, when He prayed for His disciples and for us, He said, "Father, keep them from evil. Father, sanctify them. Father, help them to be one." In Luke 11, in what is commonly known as the Lord's Prayer, Jesus again made specific requests. He prayed that His Kingdom come; that His will be done; for your daily bread; and that He delivers you from evil.

When you come to God, know what you are coming for and know what Scriptures you are standing on. There is a natural part as well as a supernatural part to prayer. Do your due diligence.