What do I do when my mind wanders when I pray?

You want to be a good Christian, a person who desires to grow in faith. You know that prayer is an important part of that growth. So you bow your head and close your eyes starting your prayer with praise and thanksgiving. Then, without warning you remember that the transmission on your car is giving you trouble and you’re thinking about when you have time to bring your car to the mechanics. Then you feel guilty about not focusing on the prayer.

The best way to handle distractions during prayer is perhaps by making those distractions something to pray about. God wants you to bring to Him your joys, sorrows and whatever causes you concern or worry.

Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

1 Peter 5:6-7