Sincere Prayer

There is no way a person, can insure success solely on the basis of his efforts. Material reality, reflects only one dimension of our existence. Prosperity, is a multi-faceted Divine blessing, and cannot be guaranteed, through our efforts alone.

Even when all the fundamentals add up, there are times, when a business deal doesn't work out; and other situations, where for no apparent reason, one's efforts bring him success.This is not mere chance.

The Baal Shem Tov, founder of Chasidism, taught, that even a leaf turning in the wind, is directed by G-d's will. Certainly this is true, when speaking of what happens to man.

Therefore, particularly when we set out on a new road, we ask G-d's assistance through prayer.
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On the surface, however, such prayers are self-serving. Man is asking G-d for something for his own self. He is not praying for G-d's sake; he is praying because of his own needs or wants. Is that spiritual? And is this what G-d desires?

Yes, G-d's intent in creating our world, was to have a dwelling place in the lower worlds; that His presence be revealed within the realm of material things.

He didn't create angels, to inhabit this physical world. He wants a world, where man interacts with the physical; and yet understands, that it is controlled by G-d.

That is precisely the awareness generated, when a person prays for his material well-being. He is concerned with everyday things, and He is asking G-d to grant Him success in this realm. Instead of relying on his own resources, he is looking to Him.
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These prayers are extremely sincere. When a person asks for spiritual things, his requests may not come from his inner core. But when he prays for his material well-being, he puts his whole heart into his prayer. He is turning to G-d, with all of his attention, and asking for His help.

In doing so, he consummates the purpose of creation, connecting G-dliness, with the most mundane dimensions of worldly existence.
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One of the primary focuses of our daily prayers, is the Redemption.

More than 100 times each day, [observant Jews] turn to G-d with requests for, Moshiach [the Messiah] and the Redemption.

These requests should be made with the same sincerity, as those for healing or livelihood. Redemption is just as real a need for us, as physical health or material well-being; and it should be felt as strongly.

Even when a person prospers, and enjoys good health, he is lacking. He is missing the fullness of life that the Redemption will grant him. He should pray, that G-d grants this fullness to the entire world, with the coming of Moshiach.