Excerpts from the writings of Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda
To know exactly how and when to pray, according to the nature of our needs, is what brings the desired results. When the right method is applied, it sets in motion the proper laws of God; the operation of these laws scientifically bears results.
Prayer often implies the consciousness of beggary. We are children of God, not beggars, and are thus entitled to our divine inheritance. When we have established a connection of love between our souls and God, we have a right to lovingly demand the fulfilment of our legitimate prayers.
An unceasing demand for anything, mentally whispered with unflagging zeal and unflinching courage and faith, develops into a dynamic power that so influences the entire behaviour of the conscious, subconscious, and superconscious powers of man that the desired object is gained. The inner performance of mental whispers must be unceasing, undaunted by reverses. Then the desired-for object will materialize.
Further Reading
- In the Sanctuary of the Soul: A Guide to Effective Prayer, by Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda
- How You Can Talk With God, by Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda
- "Receiving God's Answers to Your Prayers," in Journey to Self-realization, by Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda
- "Answered Prayers," in Man's Eternal Quest, by Sri Sri Paramahansa Yogananda
- "A Time for Prayer, A Time for Surrender," in Only Love, by Sri Sri Daya Mata