Definition and Significance
Answered prayers refer to instances where God responds to the petitions and supplications of His people, fulfilling their requests or providing guidance, comfort, and intervention in accordance with His divine will. The concept of answered prayers is central to the Christian faith, emphasizing the personal relationship between believers and God, and showcasing His sovereignty, love, and faithfulness.

Biblical Examples of Answered Prayers

1. Hannah's Prayer for a Child
In 1 Samuel 1, Hannah, who was barren, fervently prayed for a son. Her heartfelt petition was answered when God granted her a child, Samuel, whom she dedicated to the Lord. This account illustrates the power of persistent and sincere prayer. "So in the course of time, Hannah conceived and gave birth to a son. She named him Samuel, saying, 'Because I have asked for him from the LORD'" (1 Samuel 1:20).

2. Solomon's Prayer for Wisdom
Solomon, upon becoming king, prayed for wisdom to govern the people of Israel. God answered his prayer, granting him unparalleled wisdom and understanding. "Now, O LORD my God, You have made Your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child, not knowing how to go out or come in" (1 Kings 3:7). God responded, "Behold, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there has never been nor ever will be another like you" (1 Kings 3:12).

3. Elijah's Prayer for Rain
After a prolonged drought, Elijah prayed for rain, and God answered by sending a heavy downpour. This event, recorded in 1 Kings 18, demonstrates God's control over nature and His responsiveness to the prayers of His prophets. "And Elijah went up to the top of Carmel, bent down to the ground, and put his face between his knees" (1 Kings 18:42). Soon after, the sky grew dark with clouds, and a heavy rain fell.

4. Hezekiah's Prayer for Healing
King Hezekiah, upon learning of his impending death, prayed earnestly for healing. God answered by extending his life by fifteen years. "Go back and tell Hezekiah, the leader of My people, 'This is what the LORD, the God of your father David, says: I have heard your prayer; I have seen your tears. Behold, I will heal you'" (2 Kings 20:5).

5. The Early Church's Prayer for Peter's Release
In Acts 12, the early church prayed fervently for Peter's release from prison. God answered by sending an angel to free him. "So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was fervently praying to God for him" (Acts 12:5). Peter's miraculous escape underscores the power of collective prayer.

Principles of Answered Prayers

1. Faith and Trust
Faith is a crucial component of prayer. Jesus taught that faith as small as a mustard seed can move mountains (Matthew 17:20). Believers are encouraged to trust in God's timing and wisdom, knowing that He hears and answers prayers according to His perfect will.

2. Alignment with God's Will
Prayers that align with God's will are more likely to be answered. Jesus exemplified this in the Garden of Gethsemane, praying, "Yet not as I will, but as You will" (Matthew 26:39). The Apostle John reinforces this principle: "And this is the confidence that we have before Him: If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us" (1 John 5:14).

3. Persistence in Prayer
Jesus encouraged persistence in prayer through the parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8). Believers are urged to pray continually and not lose heart, trusting that God will answer in His time.

4. Righteousness and Obedience
The prayers of the righteous are powerful and effective. James writes, "The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail" (James 5:16). Living a life of obedience and righteousness enhances the efficacy of one's prayers.

5. Gratitude and Praise
Answered prayers should lead to gratitude and praise. The Psalms are replete with examples of thanksgiving for God's faithfulness in answering prayers. "I will give You thanks, for You answered me, and You have become my salvation" (Psalm 118:21).

Conclusion
The Bible provides numerous examples and principles regarding answered prayers, emphasizing the importance of faith, alignment with God's will, persistence, righteousness, and gratitude. These elements collectively underscore the dynamic and relational nature of prayer in the life of a believer.