If there is any conviction from the Lord it is because he is calling you to him. When we pray we should spend the first part seeking God's forgiveness of our sins. He does not expect perfection. In this case the leaders wanted to worship their idols, but also seek protection from God. God made it very clear to them, His desires and they still were disobedient.

If we have a blatant sin in our life that we know God has been after us for, but we don't turn away from it. Yes it will hinder our prayers until we deal with what the Lord has been convicting us of. The only reason he does this, though, is because he desires a deeper more intimate relationship with you.

Hugs. Have a great day.