Do you think this explains why some people do not pray very often, and yet they are more successful then people who do pray very often?

[jennifer_bloom]

The bible says that obedience is better then sacrificial religious activity, so somebody who does not read the bible or pray or fast, but they obey the teachings about loyalty, responsibility, honesty, fidelity, conscience, kindness, respect, humility and modesty, will be just as effective, if not more effective at getting answers to their prayers then somebody who prays and brings their requests to God but does not obey the teachings of God.

[sawno]

I don't pray very often because to me its filler. In my belief my co-pilot doesn't need me to pray to her all the time, its more an as needed thing. A thank you when she made a difference I noticed and just an occational moment of apprechiation or frustration. Because if I was in that position thats what I would prefer. No filler messages that are meaningless, but actual messages with meaning. Its not about obedience, if that had been the point she'd have shown me that. Instead her actions have always been deliberately constructed in such a way that blind obedience is impossible. Noticed how I said co-pilot? That term was obviously given to me to have it represent the role without giving away anything more than that. Thats not a sign of something that seeks worship.

[teehartman55]

I believe as you, to a point. The "new Testament regarded a way of life to bring peace and joy to you no matter the circumnstance. Not just when successfulk or poor, but all the time. In teaching he always imitated you ask and you shall receive. We were given a specific prayer, not asking for specif thinks but just telling God he's got the reins please don't make me run fast. But through Me, none can come to the Father. Tons of saying, indications prayer is indeed and important part of life. Perhaps if only to center your mind on your true troubles. Try meditation (get help, not required people) but a tape of digital to walk you though and then help. Not easy, but best form a prayer I've done.

[purplepoppy]

Perhaps that's why atheists, pagans, etc often do better than religious folk. Their actions are more in line with what God wants.

[queenofcardio]

Being successful is subjective.

[exitseven]

I had a customer that was a firefighter. I guess he was a drunk but somehow he found God and cleaned up his act. He really became one of thee born again guys. I am nto sure what his side job was but after heefound God he was able to afford to spend winters in Florida and pay somebody to work his shifts at the fire department.

[Xawyx-2]

It's all about luck, praying or not praying - won't change much.

Even some immoral people have luck, and they are often rich, but they are obviously not following any of the virtues you mentioned.