Prayer really tests our Faith doesn't it, Old Sage?
It does that, for our requests are often enough not fully in accord with the divine Will?
Or maybe God answers at another time.
True. In prayer we must always keep in mind what God has in mind for us in the long term - that is: Eternal-paradise.
That is not an easy thing when our prayers seem to be a waste of time and suffering and agony continue in and around us!
And that is another thing to remember:- that suffering is also a prayer; a very great prayer.
Yes. But knowing these things often does not help. I suppose our senses are unsatisfied.
It helps to remember that the Divine-will is so fantastic and so adorable. Knowing this, we can know that His Will for us is better then our own will!
Again, you are correct.
Add to these things a patient perseverance and a complete trust in The Almighty and you have a prayer, close to perfection.
Still ………...