It’s amazing how strong the faith of a small child is. When difficult obstacles arise, many children immediately pray to Jesus without hesitation, as they were taught by their parents. It’s as if they understand that a higher power is needed to interfere because it’s out of human control.

Psalms 9:10 says, "And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee; for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee." To me this verse says that God rewards those who trust in Him, and I like to think that because of the faith of a little child He responds a little more relentlessly to their prayers.

It was my ninth birthday on that hot summer day in July. Excitedly, I helped my mother prepare for all my guests that were expected to arrive within the hour. The cake was made, the table was set, all the decorations hung, and the only thing left was to tie the balloons outside on the front porch. Of course, this being my special occasion, I took it upon myself to perform this last task.

It proved to be a somewhat difficult task too. Twenty-some different colored helium-filled balloons, all bunched together, needed to be separated and taped in strategic locations around the railing of the porch.

As I attempted to separate the balloons from one another, my small hands lost their grip and the balloon ribbons slipped right through them. I watched, completely horrified, as all my beautiful balloons floated away to wherever the wind took them. Collecting myself, I managed to chase after them to the side of the house. It was useless. They were not within my reach anymore. I wanted to cry right there, but a little voice in my head instructed me to pray.

I dropped to my knees to pray and began immediately. "Dear Jesus," was the simple prayer I prayed, "Please help me get my balloons back if that’s okay. I love You. Amen."

Even before I said "Amen," I could sense that everything was okay. I opened my eyes, and to my amazement, my balloons seemed to be hovering in the air right in front of me. I reached up and grabbed them, shouting excited bursts of thank-you’s to God for hearing and answering my prayer while yelling at my mom to come witness the incredible event that just took place.

Every time I am tempted to think God doesn’t hear me, I remember my balloons, and that’s proof enough for me that He does listen. If you have faith, He will perform miracles.

Breanna Jardine is a 19-year-old freshman at Andrews University, where she is pursuing a degree in marketing.