Why Doesn't God Listen to Me, Why Doesn't He Answer My Prayers?
Having a relationship with God doesn't make us immune to trying times. Desperation may come even to the most mature Christians to the point that they may wonder if God listens to their prayers. But this can happen too even on good times when God doesn't seem to grant that long-time prayer request.
In such instances, you might wonder if God can hear your prayers or if He cares at all. The answer to both questions is yes. But you have to realize that God answers on His terms, not ours. The Bible provides details on how the Lord deals with supplications.
First, bear in mind that God replies only to those whom He has relations with. If you really claim to know God, you should know that His foremost characteristic is holiness and that having a relationship with Him also demands holiness on your part (Leviticus 11:45).
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So when going to Him, ask yourself these questions: Have I confessed all my sins and turned away from it? Do I pass the criteria for holiness? In other words, make sure that your heart is on the right track, and you have released all sinful habits and thoughts in your mind and heart.
Second, you have to realize that God answers only to good prayers. If you're asking Him to punish those who wronged you, then it's best to forget about these thoughts. Make sure something good will come out of your prayer request.
Third, search your heart if you have a covenant with God that was either violated or left unfulfilled. Keeping a promise is a measure of a person's integrity. If you value your promises to other people, the more you should hold it sacred if done before Him. God always keeps His covenant so should we.
Fourth, God answers in three ways: yes, no and wait. The Bible is filled with instances wherein prayers took a long time to be answered. Don't forget that you're not in the position to rush Him.
Fifth, sometimes the answer is just no. Remember that God knows best even when He denies a request like prolonging the life of a sick loved one. He has His reasons the limited minds of humans may not comprehend, but you should trust His decisions. When you utter the phrase "Thy will be done" while praying, you are actually leaving it up to Him to grant your requests or not – which is the way it should be.
