Unanswered Prayers and Selfish Motives
It's a struggle many face—prayers that seem to go unanswered. The Bible acknowledges this concern, offering insight and wisdom. In Matthew 7:7-8, we're assured of answers when we ask, seek, and knock. Yet, we're also warned in James 4:3 that when we ask with selfish motives, our prayers may not be granted. This calls for self-reflection, to ensure our requests are not merely to fuel our own desires but are in line with the divine will. Trusting in God's wisdom, as Proverbs 3:5-6 teaches, means leaning not on our own understanding but on His. It's a trust that, despite our confusion, He is caring for us, as 1 Peter 5:7 comforts, and that our prayers, even when they seem unanswered, are heard by a God who acts in goodness and love.