Prayers Unanswered..?

"When Jesus prayed to the one who could save him from death, he did not get that salvation; he got instead the salvation of the world."  - Philip Yancey, "Jesus’ Unanswered Prayers," Christianity Today (Feb. 1998)

In a Newsweek poll that was conducted several years ago titled "Is God Listening?" 87% believed that God answers their prayers at least some of the time. Even so, unanswered prayers didn't discourage them from praying. 85%  of those polled were adamant that they could accept God's failure to grant their prayers.

Sadly, 13 percent declared their loss of faith because their prayers went unanswered. 82% say they don't turn away from God even when their prayers go unanswered. 54% say that when God doesn't answer their prayers, it means it wasn't God's will to answer.  - "Is God Listening?" Newsweek Magazine, 3/31/97.

Many of you will be disappointed in what I am about to tell you. And, despite what others have said, or you have read, it's true. God doesn't always answer our prayers! That's correct. You heard me clearly. He doesn't always answer our prayers.

Now before you click off of this blog, let me clarify this: He doesn't always answer our prayers literally. And though this might occur, we shouldn't be disappointed or discouraged if they aren't. In fact, it doesn't matter how devout, God-fearing, spiritual, or saintly one might be. Not all prayers are literally answered.

Still shaking your head in disbelief? Let me present some scriptural cases in point to you. David was not literally answered (2 Samuel 12:16-20); Our Savior's request was not literally answered (Mark 14:36). Need more? Check these out: Deuteronomy 3:23-27; Job 30:20; Lamentations 3:8.

Many times, Christians pray with great passion and faith for the withdrawal of some kind of catastrophe or disaster, which is not removed. Or, perhaps they pray for something regarded as advantageous for their comfort, or well-being; which is held back. Why is this so?

It might be that the grace that is given, if the hardship is not removed, will be even more valuable to the petitioner than a direct answer to her prayer. At first glance, the removal of the hardship might appear to be a blessing, but the affliction could also be fraught with danger to our spiritual welfare. In this case, the grace received may have a permanent value that is related to the development of one's Christian character.

It might also be possible that what the person is exactly praying for isn't necessarily the best thing. God often has something much better in store for us than an immediate answer to our prayer. In this respect, having our prayers answered literally might actually make matters worse. Prayers, that in themselves are proper to ask, might be asked in an improper way. Therefore, no answer is secured.

I know that some might be confused about what was just discussed. By no means am I suggesting that you should diminish, or stop your prayers because you think they don't matter to God. Nothing could be further from the truth! We speak to Our Father through our prayers. That channel of communication is always open; no exceptions!

God, Our Father can be trusted. He listens to our petitions and acts on them accordingly in His own time and way. God always has our best interest at heart. He is a patient and loving Father who desires nothing more than to offer help, support and guidance when we come to Him. I urge you all to keep praying. No matter how big or small, your prayers will not go unheeded!

Scripture: James 4:3; Matthew 21:22; 1 John 5:14; Mark 11:24; Philippians 4:6

Prayer: Holy Father, thank You for listening to my prayers; both answered and unanswered. Even though there are times I might act like a child who is told, "No!" I understand that You only want what is best for me, and I love You for that. Amen

Have a blessed weekend!

Klarisa