Faith needs to be cultivated. Paul's tribute to the Thessalonians was, that their faith grew exceedingly. Faith is increased by exercise, by being put into use. It is nourished by sore trials. That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glow at the appearing of Jesus Christ.
Prayer is absolutely dependent upon faith.
Virtually, it has no existence apart from it, and accomplishes nothing unless it be its inseparable companion. Faith makes prayer effectual, and in a certain important sense, must precede it. For he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him. Faith makes prayer strong, and gives it patience to wait on God. Faith believes that God is a rewarder.