It seems like a singularly pointless thing to do. If God is omnipresent and omnipotent, then He knows your deepest desires � you don't have to tell Him � He already knows doesn't He?
Actually, isn't praying the most presumptuous thing imaginable? Surely you're asking God to change His plan to benefit you specifically?
Okay. But why thank a deity? He knows you're grateful. How does vocalising it or even thinking it let that deity know that you're grateful? He knows already doesn't He?
He knows your very soul.
So why waste your time thanking Him when you could be doing something more valuable with your time?
To those who believe it is never seen as a 'waste of time' to thank god. And it is always difficult for a non-believer to see things from the point of view of those who DO believe and have faith.
Besides..I tend to think that if there IS a god....he just gives us th etools...and then lets us find our own way. He has NOT planned everything out for us. So that is why 'we' may ask for guidance thru prayer.
Actually, isn't praying the most presumptuous thing imaginable? Surely you're asking God to change His plan to benefit you specifically?
Imagining that there is an almighty god who takes any special interest in individuals at all is not only presumptuous, it's arrogant. Prayer, like religion in general, is wishful thinking.
Birdie, you are making the mistake of assuming there is a rational reason for religous activities. It doesn't matter which version of fairy tale the whole lot is steeped in illogic and irrational behaviour so unless you are a believer you will never be able to make any sense of it.
I think verbalising any mantra or prayer probably gives you a physical connection with something that is imaginary, thus making it seem more real and re-inforcing the belief. A bit like a child talking to an imaginary friend