"Unanswered Prayer"

From time to time I have the privilege of writing articles on assignment- and the most recent is a request for an article on 'unanswered prayer.'
I'm inclined to believe that all sincere prayer is answered but not necessarily granted as requested. To my mind that is not a copout. At the same time I wonder how many situations, relationships, decisions-- life-changing matters-- might be effected, changed for the better by prayer?
I'm persuaded that God is good. He is "on our side" in that He always wills our salvation. But prayer does not change God so much as it makes possible change in the human equation- in me, you- the ones for whome we make petition and intercede.
I'm persuaded that God loves you and me. Tenderly. And yet He is God- He sees what we can not see.
There is a sort of saying about people-- "To know her is to love her.." But with God our faith relationship is such that "To LOVE Him is to know Him!" As we dare to press into a loving relationship, and trust His love for us-- maybe there is where the real purpose of life unfolds.
Think about tis today: God cares for you! He listens when you speak to Him! What do you really need from Him today?