As a Christian, I believed in a God who listened to and answered prayers. Yet the reality of unanswered prayers starkly contrasts with biblical promises.
If God answers prayers, why do so many go unanswered? Why do faithful believers suffer despite their sincere prayers? Answered prayers would be a powerful testament to God's existence and care—no one could explain consistent answers without invoking the supernatural. God is capable, yet chooses not to act.
The believer responds: "God hears all prayers, but sometimes the answer is 'no' or 'wait.' As 1 John 5:14-15 says, 'If we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.' Jesus also teaches persistence in prayer in Luke 18:1-8, urging us to pray continually."
But if God's answers are "yes," "no," or "wait," how do we know He's answering at all? These responses cover every possibility, making it indistinguishable from chance.
Does God promise to answer prayers? Yes. Would answered prayers strengthen faith and draw people to God? Yes. Does God consistently answer prayers in a way that stands apart from chance? No.