Introduction
Today, I want to take some time to bring affirmation to the Body of Christ. We are told that the Body of Christ is made up of many members who serve with various gifts and talents. We have brothers and sisters who share their God given abilities and passions with us each and every week and when they do we are blessed. This morning I want to briefly share about the power of affirmation and then pray with each other to encourage us in our faith. Some may question, should a Christian use positive affirmations or is the practice too self-focused? Is there such a thing as Christian daily affirmations? What are positive affirmations? What is the definition of positive affirmations?
Affirmations are positive statements used to help someone move toward a goal or improve their life’s outlook. They are declarations and statements made that bring a positive light to one’s life. Positive affirmations are phrases you speak to yourself (silently or out loud) that promote a helpful belief or change a negative thought or behavior pattern.
I am sure we have seen the video clips of kids saying, “I am strong, I am beautiful, I am smart…” They are cute and bring a smile to my face. These kinds of statements are bold and beautiful, but do not necessarily equal a positive outcome in all situations. Christians have concerns with the use of positive affirmations because they are sometimes taught as a new age or self-help philosophy. The belief sometimes taught is that by speaking a positive intention, you can manifest it into being because the universe will bring you what you create in your mind. The importance of affirmation must be centered in one’s relationship with Jesus Christ and the Word of God. Many positive affirmations are humanistic and centered on the self. Phrases like “I heal myself,” are dangerous because we do not heal ourselves. God heals us. God guides us, etc. The Bible teaches that we are broken, sinful people who are not inherently good. Instead, we have a Saviour who was perfect and paid the price for our sin. God forgives us. Amen. When we humbly accept Christ’s saving work on the cross, we are given new life in him, abundant life and salvation eternally. This is the beginning of our lifestyle of affirmation.
Christian Use Positive Affirmations!
I believe it’s possible to use affirmations in a way that matures faith and brings awareness to God’s grace and work in the Christian life. These affirmations are found in the Scriptures as directed by the Holy Spirit. The power of affirmation is found in I AM statements that are Biblically focused. As well, the power of affirmation is used by believers when they speak and pray over each other.
· Biblical affirmations are the use of Scripture to help us overcome negative thinking or emotions. One of my key verses is Phil 4:6-9 – Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. This means exchanging lies for the truth of God.
Dr. Caroline Leaf - This can be done by speaking or writing an important Scripture verse many times and committing it to memory. The Bible tell us that God’s word is living and active (Hebrews 4:12), which means it is more than just words in a page. God’s Word is a powerful, life-giving force that changes the person who hears it.
· I AM Statements. It is interesting to know that Jesus used I AM statements when describing himself in relation to God and mankind. Jesus’ personal I AM Statements vary and come under the direction of the Holy Spirit.
I am the Bread of Life (John 6:35)
I am the Light of the World (John 8:12)
I am the Door (John 10:9)
I am the Good Shepherd (John 10:11,14)
I am the Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25)
I am the Way and the Truth and the Life (John 14:6)
I am the Vine (John 15:1,5)
We too can grow in our relationship with God by allowing the Holy Spirit to speak You Are Statements over our lives which become our I AM declarations. These are affirmations that use “quotes” or prophetic words directly from God’s Spirit.
These can be general affirmations of Scripture such as – “I am forgiven” (Eph 1:7). Here is another example - John 1:12, “ But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God,” then say or write the affirmation, “I am a child of God.”
· Praying affirmation over people is a wonderful way of bringing life and love to the Body of Christ. These prayers can be very specific affirmations reaching into our lives and situations. These Words of Affirmation given by the Holy Spirit can be very powerful. Words of prophecy and encouragement and truth.
Jesus has brought the victory over sin and death, and now we have the opportunity to live in his abundance. But many of us have troubled pasts and we need the help and prayers of others to overcome. This is where the power of affirmation comes in. Any negative self image and low self-esteem must be exposed to the truth of your identity in Christ. How? Affirmations provide a way to daily live in God’s grace and goodness and faithfulness.