Because of Jesus’ teaching on prayer, the believer does not come to Father as a beggar hoping to convince him to do what is right or good. Rather, the believer comes as a beloved child whom God the Father loves and delights in providing for. Jesus is not in any way describing a formal relationship, but one that is familial and close. When we understand that Jesus gave his followers the command and authority to make disciples, then we also understand that his followers have the right to direct Father to provide for their needs in order to fulfill his commission and proclaim the gospel to all nations (Matthew 24:14; 28:18-20).
Not only do we pray because Jesus commanded and taught us to pray—but through prayer, we can be a blessing to others. Through our prayers, we assist others in their tasks. Paul requested that the Thessalonians pray with him for the purpose of spreading the gospel through Silas, Timothy, and himself. Paul also had them pray so that Silas, Timothy, and he would be rescued from evil people—specifically those who did not have faith (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2). The Thessalonians were in only one location, but their influence through prayer extended through the actions of Paul and his co-laborers.
David Freitag 