Father, we are grateful that Jesus hears our prayers, knows of our troubles and intercedes on our behalf. But there are times when we are in need of the compassion of a caring “in the flesh” friend; one who will pray, listen, lend support, and interject thoughts, experiences or suggestions that help us to bear our troublesome burdens. Instead of casting judgment they lend a thought or hand in addition to their personal time to meet our need(s). Thank you for caring friends who bear with us, lift us up out of despair, and help us discover solutions that we, by ourselves, cannot find. Help me to be that kind of friend, in the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.