ayer from a
formality into a reality, is possible only when all the circumstances,
dispositions, and qualities of mind of the person praying can be taken
into account. Suffice it to remark that when all the other conditions,
together with the intention of praying, combine, strict but reliable
theologians declare that the true essence of prayer is compatible with a
less degree of attention and recollection.

2. _Confidence._--There is no doubt but that strong confidence, or the
firm hope of being heard, contributes much to the perfection of prayer
and renders it especially effective. Therefore confidence, like devotion
or attention, must be reckoned among the essential qualities or
attributes of prayer. For it is inconceivable that a rational being
should resolve on presenting a petition when he has not the least hope
of its being granted. In this case his petition would be entirely
useless, and therefore irrational. Again, it is inconceivable that God
should have regard for a prayer or the petition of a man who has
absolutely no confidence in His mercy. A prayer without confidence is
hypocrisy, rather than true and sincere supplication. If we address a
petition to God without the confidence that He can and will grant it, He
must rather feel offended than honored thereby. How, then, shall He feel
moved to grant us new benefits? If we nevertheless receive them, it is
the effect of His bountiful goodness, and not the result of our sham
prayer.

Therefore, to be effective, our prayer must be inspired by confidence.
The apostle St. James inculcates this, saying: "But let him ask in
faith, nothing wavering; for he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea,
which is moved and carried about by the wind. Therefore let not that man
think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord" (_James_ i. 6-7). By
these words the apostle designates not a common and ordinary confidence,
but one firm and steadfast. At the same time he speaks in general; that
is, his words have reference not only to extraordinary petitions, but to
everything for which we are accustomed to pray.

Moreover, the explicit and positive promises made by Christ in regard to
prayer manifestly have the purpose of inspiring the person praying with
firm confidence and the sure hope of being heard. If, then, our prayer
be wanting in this quality, we do not pray in the spirit of Christ, nor
in the terms in which we ought to pray, and can not claim the fulfilment
of His pro