Perhaps the most fervent of prayers occur in moments of desperation when it seems relief from our pain is out of our control. Even non-believers will resort to prayers when it seems there is little hope. Lost loves, betrayal, death of a loved one, job loss, serious illness – all of these trigger passionate prayers seeking relief.

So, why does it seem so many of these prayers go unanswered?

Perhaps the simplest answer is also the most complex.

If we view our human lives as a training experience for the eventual spiritual phase of our existence, we might begin to understand. It might be fair to say that we cannot fully appreciate the light without also experiencing the darkness. We cannot truly appreciate the sound of music without first experiencing silence. Most importantly, we cannot entirely appreciate joy without also experiencing pain and sorrow.

In that respect, perhaps God’s answer is simply – “no.”

Still, we might question – why would a loving God deny us our most earnest plea?

If, even in our most tepid degree of faith, we acknowledge the existence of an all-knowing, all-powerful God, we need to respect and accept that He would know what is in our best interest in the long term. In the most basic understanding, we must acknowledge that, if every prayer to spare the life of a loved one were answered to our satisfaction, we, the inhabitants of the earth, would long ago have run out of room and resources. So, the basic cycle of life and death is necessary.

But not all prayers are devoted to extending a life. Some are for relief from pain, hunger or mental anguish. Perhaps the simplest answer is clearly – it is as it is meant to be. If God has a plan for each of us, those moments of stress or pain are part of our training.

Finally, there is the possibility that we are disappointed because we don’t get the answer we desire. Perhaps we need to pray for the right solution – the solution to which God always answers “yes.” Then, it is up to us to accept the answer.

The prayer which always receives a loving answer is the prayer for peace of mind. The answer to that prayer, if we are willing to accept it, is always “yes.”