I advise you not to use a lot of words in prayer. Many words and long monologues are the causes of wandering minds. Instead, hold yourself in prayer before God like a mute and paralyzed beggar at a rich man's gate. Let it be your purpose only to keep your mind in the presence of the Lord. If it sometimes wanders and withdraws itself from Him, do not worry yourself about it. Worry and anxiety distract the mind rather than focus it. The will must bring the mind back in tranquility. If you persevere in this manner, God will be gracious to you.
