A Praying Life by Paul Miller
Week 8: Chapters 12–14 — The Problem of Unanswered Prayer
Read Chapters 12–14 of A Praying Life (covering the terrain of persistence, unanswered prayer, and what God is doing when he seems silent)
Previewing Week 8 of A Praying Life
Read 3 of 6 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 14-week guide when you’re ready.
This is the section most of us have been waiting for — and most dreading. Miller refuses easy answers about unanswered prayer, which is precisely what makes his approach so trustworthy.
Discussion Questions
6 questions1.Miller says that unanswered prayer is not an anomaly — it is part of the normal Christian experience, embedded in how God works. How does that statement land for you? Does it relieve you, frustrate you, or both?
2.He talks about the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18) — Jesus telling us to pray and not give up. What do you think Jesus meant by persistence? Is it about changing God's mind, or something else?
3.Miller identifies three possible responses to unanswered prayer: giving up, becoming bitter, or persisting in faith. Which is your default response? What has shaped that pattern in you?