Since today, as Yom Kippur Koton, is a special day of Tefillah, we present below several very meaningful suggestions from the Chofetz Chaim on making your Tefillos more effective, as found in the Sichos Chofetz Chaim:
1. When davening, one should actually cry out to Hashem, as we find that the Bnei Yisroel cried out to Hashem in Mitzraim (“Vanitzak”), and the Pasuk, in turn, records, “VaYishma Hashem Es Kolainu--and Hashem **heard our voices.**” 2. A Tefillah for the Klal is more accepted than a Tefillah for the individual. Thus, when praying for an individual, one should include him “B’soch Klal Yisroel.” 3. It is a “Dovor Gadol”--a great thing--to daven immediately after having performed a Mitzvah, because the zechus of the Mitzvah helps the Tefillah to be answered. That is why, for instance, we have the series of HaRachaman requests after we complete the Birchas HaMazon. [Hakhel Note: This is also why some have the custom to give Tzedakah immediately prior to davening.] 4. When a person davens, he should make request of Hashem as if he is asking his mother for something. You should realize that just as a mother will not turn down a sincere, respectful, and meaningful request, so too, will Hashem not be angered or upset when you repeat the same request over and over again--appreciate and respond to its sincerity.
Important Numbers
