Understanding why prayers go unanswered reveals that sin and broken relationships create barriers between us and God. True prayer effectiveness comes through maintaining right relationships, walking in obedience to God's Word, and developing spiritual brokenness. This brokenness manifests as genuine compassion for lost souls and a willingness to sacrifice for others' salvation. By addressing broken relationships, spending time in Scripture, and developing a heart that breaks for what breaks God's heart, we can experience transformation in our prayer life.