So what does God expect of us when we come to Him in prayer?
 

Obedience to God is a vital condition for answered prayer.
If we expect God to continue hearing our prayers, we must begin obeying the Ten Commandments and His other commandments (1 John 3:22).

Confess your sins to God so that your sins will no longer stand in the way,
Do remember to be forgiven, we must be forgiving of others (Isaiah 59:2; Matthew 6:12, Matthew 6:14-15).

One’s motives should not be selfish, greedy or any attempt to impress others.
(James 4:2-3; Matthew 6:5-6; Matthew 18:9-14).

Study the Bible to know and pray according to God’s mind and will
(John 15:7; 1 John 5:14-15; Matthew 4:4).

Believe and have full faith in God’s love, mercy, promises and expect answers

(Mark 11:24; Hebrews 10:22, Hebrews 10:38-39; Hebrews 11:6; James 1:5-6).

Be extremely grateful to God and express thanksgiving and praise profusely

(Philippians 4:6; Colossians 4:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

Be wholehearted, fervent and passionate in prayer
(James 5:16; Psalms 119:145; Hosea 7:14).

Multiple repetitions of words and phrases are worthless
although Christ taught persistence in repeating a petition to God day after day (Matthew 6:7-8; Luke 11:5-13; Luke 18:1-7).

Ask God to guide and inspire you with His Holy Spirit
(Romans 8:14-15, Romans 8:26-27; John 14:26).