The purpose of prayer is not to obtain material favors - money, a television set, houses, patronage, a rich marriage partner

The purpose of prayer is not to obtain material favors - money, a television set, houses, patronage, a rich marriage partner. The benefits it brings are of a different nature. The gifts you receive when you communicate with the Lord in your hearts and minds are very subtle, such as energy, light, and inspiration. And as this subtle world is a real world, its influence touches those who come in contact with you; they feel vivified, comforted and consoled in your company; they feel that they can trust you. It is even possible that they may, one day, offer you all kinds of material advantages. But the first fruits of prayer are always spiritual. Material advantages may follow, but only later.