E.M. BOUNDS ON DELAYS IN PRAYER

Yet faith is called upon, and that right often to wait in patience before God, and is prepared for God's seeming delays in answering prayer. Faith does not grow disheartened because prayer is not immediately honored; it takes God at his word, and lets him take what time he chooses in fulfilling his purposes, and in carrying on his work.

Delay is often the test and strength of faith. How much patience is required when these times of testing come! Yet faith gathers strength by waiting and praying. Patience has its perfect work in the school of delay. In some instances, delay is the very essence of prayer. God has to do many things, antecedent to giving the final answer—things which are essential to the lasting good of him who is requesting favor at his hands.

The Necessity of Prayer