If you are like many people, you sometimes need a little help in organizing your prayers. Someone once came up with the acronym B.L.E.S.S. as a method of praying for people. It goes like this.

“B” stands for body. You can start out by praying for the health concerns of the person you want to pray for. James 5:16 says “…pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” Most churches have a quite extensive prayer list that is comprised mostly of people who have health issues. Prayers for health are much needed and usually much appreciated.

“L” is for labor. You can pray for the work of the person you want to bless. Many are currently out of work and are hoping to be called back soon. You can pray for them to have harmony in the workplace. You can ask God to keep them safe, especially if they work in a dangerous environment. There are many ways that you can pray for people in regards to their employment.

“E” stands for emotions. Pray for the mental well-being of the person who is on your mind. There are countless issues which can be very upsetting, and some people are susceptible to being anxious and worried. Pray for them to trust in the Lord and have the peace that he promises, a peace that passes all understanding.

The first “S” is for social issues. Pray for their relationships. Pray for their marriage to be strengthened, or their bond with their children to become stronger. Pray for their friendships. Pray for them to be reconciled with anyone they may be having problems with.

The second “S” is for spiritual needs. Pray that they come to know Jesus as their Savior. If they already know Christ, pray that their relationship with him will grow even stronger. 3 John 2 says, “Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well.”

I hope that this helps you to pray in an effective way. Perhaps you can share this little exercise with someone else who could benefit from this method of prayer. No matter how you choose to do it, just pray!