Do you sometimes find yourself surprised when God works in your life? An answer may come from an unlikely place, an answer may be different than what you expected or hoped for, or a prayer may be answered at a time you did not expect. Why do we become surprised by the actions of God? We know that He is all-powerful and nothing is beyond His control. We sing, "The mountains are His, the valleys are His, the stars are His handiwork too." We are promised repeatedly that are prayers will be answered:

Yet, sometimes we are filled with doubt, or are so mired in confusion or pain, that we forget just how awesome of a God we serve. Of course, it is wonderful when the Spirit of the Lord moves us, works through us, or answers a prayer that has lain heavy on our hearts.
Youth Councils at The Salvation Army has been a blessing to me for many years. It is there where I have seen so many young people yearn to have a personal relationship with their creator. Burdens are lifted, chains are broken, hearts are healed, decisions are made. I, myself, have found freedom at a Youth Councils altar. This year, I had a prayer answered. And these changes, these intercessions, these miracles do not occur because we gather the youth together in the name of The Salvation Army, but they occur because we come together in a spirit of praise and worship, leaving the traps and snares of this world outside the doors, and earnestly and geniunely pray to our Heavenly Father.
The surprise I received this Youth Councils involved a dear friend. While I hate to admit it, we have many characteristics in common. He is proud and stubborn. He would rather be in control and in charge of events, aware of every little detail. It is easier for him to find faults with others than with himself. No, I'm seriously not talking about myself.
This friend has been going through a rough spot in his life. It has affected his family, his friends, and his ministry. Myself and others have been praying that God would touch his heart, help him lay down his pride, and give it all to God. I knew that his heart was heavy. As the altar call started, I checked on our local youth, and then checked to see how he was doing. Giving the standard stubborn, proud answer of 'Everything's fine,' I left him alone.
The next day I watched as he went to the altar at the night meeting. I looked to see if he was praying with one of our youth. As he was not, I hurried up beside him and prayed with him. Tears welled in my eyes as I was so joyed knowing that God had answered prayers. His stubborn demeanor the day before had dashed my hopes of my friend humbling himself before God and laying down his burdens at His feet. To see God's work be accomplished was truly moving.
I am not good at praying with people. I'm very poor at empathizing. But, as long as the Good Lord allows me, "prayers are free." They may not be the most flowery or articulate, but they are a cry from my heart. I know God answers prayer; He's answered mine before.