Prayer is different that Torah-study. Torah-study is focused on G-d's words to me, while prayer is focused on my words to G-d.
However, before we pray we say, "My L-rd, open my lips, and my mouth shall declare Your praise." -Psalms 51:17
This verse is far more than just lip-service. When said right, this one-verse makes all the difference in prayer. It is the secret of (a) how to have our prayer granted, and (b) how to feel the presence of G-d with us in our daily life.
Link to written notes:
https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/4614078/10.%20Vayigash%205776%20-Parsha%20Class.pdf
