When I’ve prayed for something for a long time and haven’t seen the answer I’d hoped for, I’m tempted to wonder what good prayer really is. But I know that’s a selfish way to look at it. There’s so much more to prayer than just getting an answer to a question or a solution for a problem. The act of praying can change me. Thank you, God, that you can soften my heart through prayer and help me avoid the debilitating effects of anger, resentment, and bitterness. Help me to persevere in talking to you and in listening to you so that I may gain a greater understanding of myself, my situation, my motivation, your nature, and your direction for my life.