Joseph F. Smith
“Here, indeed, is a text that would give an opportunity to one moved by the proper spirit, to make a telling discourse among the Latter-day Saints-not applicable to all, but applicable to far too many. It is not good for us to pray by rote, to kneel down and repeat the Lord’s prayer continually. I think that one of the greatest follies I have ever witnessed is the foolish custom of men repeating the Lord’s prayer continually without considering its meaning…It thus becomes only a form; there is no power in it; neither is it acceptable, because it is not offered from the heart, nor with the understanding; and I think that it is desirable for us to look well to our words when we call upon the Lord…let the prayer come from the heart, let it not be in words that are worn into ruts in the beaten tracks of common use, without thought or feeling in the use of those words. Let us speak the simple words, expressing our need, that will appeal most truly to the Giver of every good and perfect gift.” (Gospel Doctrine, p. 220)
Spencer J. Condie
“Elder Dallin H. Oaks instructed a group of missionaries in Porto, Portugal, regarding the importance of ’real intent,’ adding that when we pray with real intent we are willing to accept the consequences of the answer we receive. That is to say, we are willing to assume the responsibility of that confirmation we receive by undergoing a mighty change of heart and, in most cases, undergoing a mighty behavioral and attitudinal change in our lives.” (In Perfect Balance, p. 64)