Decades ago I was introduced to affirmations, short statements committed to memory that embrace what I want to become. The worldly version taught in many self help arenas might be something like “I exceed the skills valued by my employer and I’m rewarded accordingly.” Twenty years ago, while working in Cincinnati I staggered spiritually, in the work place, under a constant barrage of deadly language and oppression offensive to my spirit. Combined with rotating shifts, never enough quality sleep, I felt as if I were drowning. The Lord gifted (lifted…)me an affirmation much longer than normal. At times it has made all the difference in keeping my head above water.
Because… “it is he that (came) to take away the sins of the world, yea the sins of every man who steadfastly believeth on his name (Alma 5:48) then, in appreciation…
“I surrender my volition, my heart, and all that I am to my Redeemer and Savior, Jesus Christ, for he is truly and completely the Captain of my soul. I do the things HE wants done. I learn the lessons HE has for me. I pattern my life and example so closely after Him that he is able to trust me as his servant in any situation and with any person or group. When fears and inconsistencies arise, or the influence of Satan intervenes, I quietly refocus and look to my Captain, my Redeemer and Friend to replace the inappropriate with His ways. My heart is filled with gratitude and Christ like love and with a quick sense of appropriate humor. I do this in gratitude to him and for his purposes because I love Him and owe him my all.” kdm
Remember, an affirmation is typically a destination–not a ‘current reality’. Through earnest, sincere (wanting it!) repetition we become what we think about and strive for. Thus we ‘own’ affirmations when we pay the price to make them a part of us. For me, it may well be the next life before I fully ‘own’ this one!
“As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.” (Proverbs 23:7)
The best affirmations one can embrace and memorize are scriptures that empower to greater spiritual commitment and awareness under Christ.
