Unanswered Prayers

This is something I feel should be addressed. So many people believe that their prayers go unanswered. In fact, there is even a country song about it..."Sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers, remember when you're talking to the man upstairs, that just because he may not answer doesn't mean he doesn't care, some of God's greatest gifts are unanswered prayers." Thank you Garth Brooks (and now you will all be singing this song all day long!). I think this is wrong, but so many people believe it's true. If God doesn't answer your prayer, exactly how you want it answered, in exactly the time you want it answered, then He doesn't care, wasn't listening, isn't going to answer, or whatever. Forgive my bluntness, but that's a bunch of crap! It has taken me several years to learn this, but God ALWAYS answers prayers. I know it's hard to see that when you're staring down the barrel of a loaded gun, per se, but it's true. It may not seem like it when your world is crumbling down around you. If God answers prayers, why did I lose my job? Why did my spouse/child/parent/best friend get sick? Why did my spouse cheat on me? Why aren't my kids following the Lord? Why is there so much war and sadness going on all around the world? Why? Why? Why? I have asked these exact questions. Why is my son disabled? Why can't we figure out what's wrong with him? But over time, God has shown his greatness over and over. Will can say more words than any other child I've met with his condition. He is a sweet boy who loves his family. He brings joy to every room he enters and blesses others beyond belief. God always answers prayers, but it may not be in the manner or timing we desire. We must remember that God's will and His timing are perfect. I know that's easier said than done, but it's true. Spend time with Him in His word and in prayer and you'll see it. I have several friends and family members going through some pretty serious trials right now, and I hope if you're reading this that you'll remember that in His perfect timing, God WILL answer your prayer with His perfect answer. I pray that we have the peace and understanding to accept God's will and answer to our prayers. So don't think you're prayers are going up into the big empty sky and that no one is listening. He is there. He is always listening. And, He will always answer.