Praying Effective Prayers

How to pray effectively according to the Bible? Praying is the way we communicate to God. When we need something, we ask God. When we committed sins, we pray for His forgiveness. When we are punished, we ask the His mercy. When we are sick, we ask for healing. And when we feel thankful, we bring our joy and thankfulness to God. But how can we assure that God hears our prayers? The following are guides from the Holy Scriptures on how to pray effectively:

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)
Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.