Barnes New Testament Notes

Verse 15. And if we know that he hear us. That is, if we are assured of this as a true doctrine, then, even though we may not see immediately that the prayer is answered, we may have the utmost confidence that it is not disregarded, and that it will be answered in the way best adapted to promote our good. The specific thing that we may not indeed be granted, (comp. Lu 22:42; 2 Co 12:8,9, ) but the prayer with not be disregarded, and the thing which is most for our good wilt be bestowed upon us. The argument here is derived from the faithfulness of God; from the assurance which we that when he has promised to hear us, there will be, sooner or later a real answer to the prayer.

We know that we have the petitions. That is, evidently, we know that we shall have them, or that the prayer will be answered. It cannot mean that we already have the precise thing for which we prayed, or that will be a real answer to the prayer, for

(a.) the prayer may relate to something future, as protection on a journey, or a harvest, or restoration to health, or the safe return of a son from a voyage at sea, or the salvation of our souls -- all of which are future, and which cannot be expected to be granted at once; and

(b.) the answer to prayer is sometimes delayed, though ultimately granted. There may be reasons why the answer should be deferred, and the promise is not that it shall be immediate. The delay may arise from such causes as these:

(1.) To try our faith, and see whether the blessing is earnestly desired.

(2.) Perhaps it could not be at once answered without a miracle.

(3.) It might not be consistent with the Divine arrangements respecting others to grant it to us at once.

(4.) Our own condition may not be such that it would be best to answer it at once. We may need further trial, further chastisement, before the affliction, for example, shall be removed; and the answer to the prayer may be delayed for months or years. Yet, in the meantime, we may have the firmest assurance that the prayer is heard, and that it will be answered in the way and at the period when God shall see it to-be best.

{a} "know" Pr 15:29; Jer 29:12,13

{*} "desired" "asked"