How can I tell if God has answered my prayers?

Dear Betty,

Sometimes I don't think God answers my prayers. How can I tell mine are answered?

A portion of this answer can be found in Embraced By The Light Prayers and Devotions for Daily Living, July 18th, my prayer: Father, sometimes when I pray for others, I pray believing I have perfect solutions for their problems. While I know my heart is in the right place, I am confident and grateful that you will answer according to their needs and your plan for them, not mine. Bless me always to allow for your will whenever I pray in behalf of others.

Our prayers for others have great strength but can only be answered as far as they do not infringe on others’ free will—or as long as they do not frustrate others’ needs. God is bound to let us act for ourselves, but he is also willing to help in any way possible. —Embraced By The Light, page 105

We can always learn more about prayer. I recommend starting a prayer journal. In looking back I see answers to my prayers, not always expected or even in ways I was wanting, but I see God's hand and wisdom in my life and his blessings. Today I always pray for his will, not mine to be done and I fondly remember the angels around us, helping him answer our prayers.

I saw angels rushing to answer the prayers. They were organized to give as much help as possible. As they worked within this organization, they literally flew from person to person, from prayer to prayer, and were filled with love and joy by their work. They delighted to help us and were especially joyful when somebody prayed with enough intensity and faith to be answered immediately.

—Embraced By The Light, pages 103-104

I love the promise given in Jeremiah: And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13