Center of Unbroken Praise

Joyful, Joyful, we adore Thee God of glory, Lord of love	All Thy works with joy surround Thee Earth and heav'n reflect Thy rays	Chanting bird and flowing fountain Call us to rejoice in Tee	Melt the clouds of sin and sadness Drive the dark of doubt away
Hearts unfold like flow'rs before Thee Op'ning to the Sun above

Everyday Faith

The Cambridge English Dictionary says to affirm means "to state something as true."

Affirmations have become very popular as a way to combat the ocean of negative messages in the world at large, and in our own brain. Most experts agree that affirmations can work when dealing with some level of insecurity, doubt and fear. But experts also caution that in the long run, affirmations will ultimately have little or no success without deep, transformative healing and change.

Yet all agree that deep, transformative healing and change are not easy. Where does it begin? Many affirmations I've seen in mental health discussions, and in religious writings and discussions seem to start with the individual at the center. It does seem a logical place to start, especially when we consider that affirmations are an instrument for healing past and present wounds, scars, anxieties, and negative emotions.

But the affirmations in Scripture, by contrast, start with God in the center. The book of Psalms for example, with its hundreds of affirmations, makes God the focal point in doubt, trouble, anxiety, and in the midst of every cry of the human heart.

In Psalm 42, for instance, the palpable angst in the beginning verses: "My tears have been my food day and night..." (vs. 2) gradually gives way to a remembrance of God: "My soul is downcast within me; therefore I will remember you..." (vs. 6) and finally an affirmation rooted in hope: "Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God." (vs. 11)

The psalmist does not simply declare forced or hollow mantras, but deals with his feelings honestly. He finally experiences a major shift in mindset as he affirms the truth of God's presence and sovereignty. This is the level where change and healing can begin. Human experts can often give some help, but only God can accomplish true, deep, transformative change in us. The Psalms and other Scripture teach us life-changing, affirming truths. They can encourage us greatly in the chaos and negativity all around.

Check out the Daily Affirmations in the Blog Posts Section of this page. May your soul be truly restored, renewed, and refreshed as you meet God at the center!