Many people think that prayer consists merely in asking. That is the reason why it is so often done mechanically.
The fact is that true prayer consists in asking and receiving. Every true prayer is offered in the name of Christ, and the promise is, "If you shall ask anything in my name I will do it." (John 14:14)
And again, "What things soever you desire, when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you shall have them. True prayer is thus enjoined:" (Mark 11:24) "Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known." (Philippians 4:6)
The thanksgiving is for the reception of the things asked, which faith grasps. When it is understood that the same prayer that conveys our request to God, brings in return His blessings to us, prayer will be pleasure, and will be fresh with praise and thanksgiving.--Present Truth, August 22, 1895.