Prayer for Friends

Lord, bless our friends today we pray,
Wherever they may be;
And help them as they go their way,
To keep their trust in Thee.
Lord, hear each prayer they raise to Thee,
And dry each falling tear;
And hover o'er them constantly,
For treasured friends are dear.
Surround them with Thy mercy,
Lord, Protect them by Thy power;
And let them feel Thy presence,
Lord, In every lonely hour.
Stand by them when the road is steep,
And no one seems to care;
Thy arm of love around them keep,
And whisper You are there.
And give them strength to bear the cross,
As through this vale they go;
And stand by them in every loss,
That they meet here below.
And when at last the hour shall be,
That life's short journey ends;
O, let them lean the more on Thee,
And comfort these, our friends.
And open heaven's gate, dear Lord,
And let them enter there;
For heaven will be heaven,
Lord, Because our friends are there.