Your R with God is exactly that Patrick. Each person has to come to their own realizations on their own time. There is no right time or exactly the same way for each person.
Personally, I think God ackowledges us, we just usually don't see it for what it is. It is usually chalked up to good fortune or coincidences. I know it has taken me to finally begin studying the bible to start to understand how He works and what He expects from us. I also have learned to have patience and I am seeing things happen in my life.
I encourage you to keep praying and listening. He does speak to people in different ways. Chances are you won't have a "burning bush" experience. He can talk to you in many ways.
I have done a lot of right stuff and suffered. I cannot remember one instance where I think God was the one who made me suffer from choosing to do the right thing. I can think of other factors, other peoples' decisions that have contributed to the suffering.
I also have seen most people who choose to do wrong eventually have their day when it comes back to haunt them. To some, that's karma, to me, it is the result of living for self or sin. Funny thing is that now I don't even crack a smile or feel happy that someone got theirs. I feel sad for them since they are losing out on what is important in life.
Patrick, over time, you will feel more at peace knowing you chose to do what is right. I have a feeling that you will enjoy real relationships as opposed to those that seek self centered lifestyles.
Me:56, W:51 D:26,S:24,S:22 Married:18 Bomb 9/27/06 Separated 11/27/06 Divorced 10/6/08 Leaving it up to God