Bro Eli explains that prayer is not just mere words, or that ritual which was engaging, but it's just a mere sincere request that has been directed to God. Ask Him to do what human power can do.
In Philippians 4, it shows that anxiety has no place in the life of a believer who understands the need for prayer. Instead of being overwhelmed by the problems, we are instructed to bring everything to God, our problems and our supplications.
What stands out the most is the emphasis on faith, that prayer is effective, not just because there are so many words, but because of the thoughts. In the Gospels, Hebrews 11 and James 1 says, make it clear that faith is not optional. It's the doubts that cancel expectations.
A wavering heart cannot receive from the Lord. The example is given. Praying for healing, protection and deliverance makes prayer very practical and can be relatable to faith. They show that God is not distant. He listens when we directly present our fears, needs and our hopes to Him.
This teaching challenges believers to examine how we pray. Do we truly believe God can really act? Or we are praying with that doubt in us?. True prayer is faith in action and faith is what really pleases God.