"We also pray in faith that we would receive from God the blessings of this life and that by his blessings they may be profitable for us. Because God would have this glory given to himself as the Fountain, Author, and Giver of every good thing (James 1:17) and that we should wholly rely upon him, therefore we, in prayer, testify that we neither ascribe them to any other nor seek them elsewhere. We completely hope for, expect, and require the same from God alone. For God has promised that he will be ready and willing to help. In our prayers we lay our wants and needs before God, not as though he did not know them, but that by pouring out our cares into the Lord's bosom, we may unburden and comfort our souls. This promise is very sweet and comforting (Ps. 37:5; 55:22). 'Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you' (1 Pet. 5:7). Chrysostom adds this reason why we should pray: 'That by often calling upon God we may become familiar with him.' He urges prayer that we may more highly esteem and more reverently use that which God bestows upon us when we ask and knock."
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