It is good that you realize your need of prayer. Whether changes come quickly or not greatly depends on what you pray for.

As children of God, we receive many blessings we hardly notice. But as we grow in the knowledge of His word, we begin to appreciate them more and more. Additionally, a proper heart condition is essential when we pray. Our main desire is to seek what will help us develop as Christians, and not to petition for natural blessings. 

We should pray for strength to overcome the flesh. We ask for wisdom to know how to deal with ourselves, for strength of character and for the development of the fruits and graces of the holy Spirit.  We should pray for spiritual food, for grace to keep ourselves unspotted from the world and to put on the whole armor of God. We should ask for wisdom to understand the Word of God. “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the holy spirit to them that ask him?” Luke 11:13

If we have accepted Jesus as our Savior and given ourselves to the Lord, we know we will be heard.  We see that by studying and striving to grow in Jesus’ character image, our life will begin to change immediately after prayer. However, we will continue to change as we live in accordance with these prayers.

We may be tempted to pray for our fleshly desires. But Jesus said, “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak,” Matthew 26:41. Our fallen flesh can lead us into temptations which hurt our relationship with God. 

Additionally, when we pray, it is vital that we be alert to see just how the Lord will answer our prayers.  Those answers may come in ways we didn’t expect. For example, if you pray for patience, you may find yourself in an irritating situation where you can exercise and develop more patience. That would be a clear answer to prayer, yet not an easy one.

Finally, we are to “pray without ceasing,” 1 Thessalonians 5;16, in the sense of not being discouraged when the good things promised and asked for don’t come quickly. We are to remember the word of promise is sure and to rest in it.

Additional Resources:
PDF: “How God Answers Prayer”

Christian Questions Podcast
Episode #1294: “How Can I Transform My Prayer Life? (Part I)”
Who God hears, why He says no and how prayer works
Preview Video
CQ Rewind Show Notes

For children, parents and Bible class teachers:
Animated video: “What should we pray for?”