Supplication to Allah

One of the common complaints of many of us Muslims is that when we make Dua, we don’t see its immediate effects. As a result, we get disheartened and lose hope in the effectiveness and powers of our Dua. The post below highlights a passage written by Ibn Al-Jawzi (may Allah have mercy on him) where he discusses this topic.

Selected Du'âs that one can memorise and use in one's daily life

If we reflect upon the matter we will find that the one supplicating is sincere (and truthful) in his worship and he unites his heart in his supplication. There is nothing which preoccupies him from being earnest in his supplication and this is because he knows that his supplication being answered will definitely be accomplished.

Allah loves to be asked, and He encourages that in all things. He is angry with the one who does not ask of Him and He encourages His slaves to ask of Him.

All praise is due to Allâh, the One who hears the secret and whispered speech, and provides relief from calamity and misfortune. Peace and blessings be upon the Chosen Prophet, his family and all of his Companions.
The tremendous suffering that our Muslim brothers in Iraq are facing makes it an obligation on all the Muslims to support them in any way they can. Amongst the most important obligations in this regard that the Muslims must do to support their brothers is to make Du'a; this being one of the most potent means of repressing calamity...

A small hadîth which provides the reader with one of the most beautiful dua's uttered by the Prophet Muhammad salallâhû alayhe wa salam

Allâh tests his slaves with trials that drive them to supplicate to him and this is in itself a blessing. Total reliance on Allâh is the actual wealth, the essence of worship and the utmost goal. Supplication is the sign of worship and Allâh loves that his slaves should supplicate to him. Dear brother, be patient with whatever happens to you for with every difficulty is relief, and do not stop supplicating. Always praise your Lord and thank Him for all His mercies.

Why are our supplications not answered even though Allah has told us "And your Lord says: 'Call on Me, I will answer your prayer..."?