Sometimes it seems that we have been praying a long time and still do not have what we ask. But we should not be sad. I am sure that what our Lord means is that either we should wait for a better time, or more grace, or a better gift.
— Saint Julian of Norwich (1342-1416)
Whether, therefore, we receive what we ask for, or do not receive it, let us still continue steadfast in prayer. For to fail in obtaining the desires of our heart, when God so wills it, is not worse than to receive it; for we know not as He does, what is profitable to us.
— Saint John Chrysostom (347-407)
God will either give us what we ask, or what He knows to be better for us.
— Saint Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153)
The reason why sometimes you have asked and not received, is because you have asked amiss, either inconsistently, or lightly, or because you have asked for what was not good for you, or because you have ceased asking.
— Saint Basil the Great (330-379)
