When our prayers remain unanswered

In times of challenge and difficulty, how do we deal with unanswered prayer? How do we respond when God appears silent?  I know in my own life when my prayers have remained unanswered I'm faced with the choice to walk forward in trust and faith even though the way ahead feels so uncertain. Maybe that's what this year of Covid has felt like for many of us.

Wanted to share this prayer attributed to a Confederate soldier during the American Civil War (thanks to Lectio 365).

I asked for strength that I might achieve;

I was made weak that I might learn humbly to obey.

I asked for health that I might do greater things;
I was given infirmity that I might do better things.

I asked for riches that I might be happy;
I was given poverty that I might be wise.

I asked for power that I might have the praise of men;
I was given weakness that I might feel the need of God.

I asked for all things that I might enjoy life;
I was given life that I might enjoy all things.

I got nothing that I had asked for,
but everything that I had hoped for.

Almost despite myself my unspoken prayers were answered;
I am, among all men, most richly blessed.