But there are definite benefits in prayer. There is the good done to people prayed for when they sense being surrounded by the love and care of others. And in a deeper sense, prayer is an affirmation of 'ultimate concern' and 'absolute dependence'. There is a givenness about life and a desire to look for that which is ultimate. There is a desire in all of us for 'reverence for life'.
Prayer is in our nature.
Even the atheist in extreme moments cries, 'O God'.