The Effect of Supplication in Changing What Is Decreed

Question:
The sister questioner says: Regarding the abundance of supplication, we know that it is an act of worship. Does it have an effect in changing what has been written for us? For I have been hoping and praying for years that our daughters be granted righteous husbands, but until now, nothing has happened.

Answer:
Supplication is a cause. If Allah wills to benefit a person, He benefits him. If Allah the Exalted accepts it, it is a great cause for the attainment of what is sought, provided one does not supplicate for a sin or for severing family ties. As for the response, it may be delayed, and this does not prevent the Muslim from supplicating, even if the response is delayed. He should not reduce his supplication. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: and he should not abandon supplication, but rather continue it. He is rewarded for his supplication because it is an act of worship. Also, the delay in the response may be in his best interest. Allah knows best what is in His servants' interests, so he should not despair of the response, even if it is delayed. Yes.