“And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. “But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. “And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. “Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. (Mat 6:5-8 NKJ)

The hypocrite was far more concerned about being seen praying than they were about the reason and the content of their prayers.  The hypocrite assumed that people would think they were spiritual and righteous.  Jesus tells them that they are fake and have already received their reward.  They give nothing and will receive nothing.  And don’t keep on repeating or chanting vain words, God is neither deaf nor is He ignoring you.

When you pray, do it in a place where you’re alone with God, prayer, after all, is about the relationship.  That relationship means that your Father knows what you have a need of even before you pray one word.  Our Father is not far off, He is closer than you think, so draw near to Him, and he will draw near to you.