Prayer?

I came across a link that explained prayer in a humorous way - but it was pretty much on point with the way I think.

Praying... Do you think your prayers are truly answered if the situation you're praying about falls into your favor? What do you think happens if you say many many prayers and the result is not what you wanted? When someone says, "Pray for me." and you pray but something bad still happens - how do you explain that?

I've often wondered about that. Just the other day, a few of my friends were talking about life and prayer. I have the philosophy that whatever I do is already planned for me because God is working through me. I have the ability to make choices in my life but the path I've been placed on - while I may wander from it, I am always directed back to the path. Some choices I make have me going through tough times and larger lessons learned. Other paths are easier to navigate and things just seem to fall into place. Ultimately, God is in control and your life and all of those lives surrounding you are already determined. Let go and let God (do His thing).

When a friend of mine asked me to pray for him as he was on his trip... I told him that I don't really pray like that because whatever is supposed to happen is supposed to happen. I thought a little more about it and when i'm on the plane, I pray that we don't have crazy people on it and that the pilots do a good job and get us there safely. When I drive long distances I pray for safety. So I do pray for things - just not all things. And yes... it kinda helps the mind be at ease when faced with adversity. I totally get that.

In all, I don't think prayer changes the results. I think prayer just brings a level of peace. What do you think?