Why does it seem that sometimes when we really start to pray for something, everything goes pear shaped?

It seems to me that when we focus our prayers and thoughts on a particular issue, be it someone we are concerned about, our family, our businesss, whatever, almost automatically things in that area get harder.

My theory is that we have brought that issue into the arena of the spiritual. I use the word "arena" because it is a battle. Suddenly whatever we are praying about becomes an issue, whereas before, maybe, it was flying under the radar. Either way the truth is that as a Christian, trying to do the right thing, and seeking God's will, is not always, or even often, the easy road. Its not. And it is tough sometimes, really tough.

But ultimately life without real spiritual purpose is boring and safe. And I dont want a boring life.