Why does 1 Peter 4:7 say we need to be self controlled to pray?

 1 Peter 4:7 says "The end of all things is near, therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so you can pray." Have you ever wondered why Peter says we need to be self-controlled to pray? I did, and then it hit me. We need that because it's so easy to be distracted from praying, or even in the midst of our prayers as our minds tend to wander. See, even Peter knew about that problem! That sure made me feel better to know I wasn't alone with that problem. Plus, Galatians 5:22-23 tells us that self-control is one of the fruits of the Spirit which will increase as we grow in our faith. That's always been a big thing to me as I know that self control/self discipline isn't something easy for me, so it helps to know that the Lord will grow that within me as I continue in His Word every day.