“The tongue has the power of life and death,
and those who love it will eat its fruit.”
Proverbs 18:21
One of the most transformative experiences this year was an intergenerational gathering of teen girls and women. Over eighty gathered, ages ranging from 14 - 92 for Colorful Conversations, an afternoon of community, coloring and connection. This gathering inspired Affirmations In Bloom. The teens planned the program and one of their desires was the inclusion of affirmations. When we gathered, I shared with them the importance of affirming ourselves before we can affirm anyone else. I also offered a reflection on a familiar phrase.
“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt you,
A familiar phrase we’ve known and heard, but I’ve found it NOT to be true.
After all is said and done, Power still lies in the words of our tongue.
Speak Life”
As we reflect on 2024 and prepare to enter a new door.
What affirmations have encouraged you to thrive?
What words will you leave in 2024 and what words will you take into 2025?
Affirmations benefit Spirit, Body and Soul
Here are reminders why the words we speak keep us whole
A - Align - Affirmations align thoughts, words and actions. "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." – Proverbs 16:3
F - Focus - Focusing on words that are life giving aligns with fixing your thoughts on higher purposes. "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." – Colossians 3:2
F - Faith - Affirmations are faith words that anchor you. "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." – Hebrews 11:1
I- Intentionally Speak - Affirmations guide us to speak with intention. "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord." – Psalm 19:14
R - Renew - Affirmations aid in the renewal of mind, body, and soul. "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." – Romans 12:2
M - Motivate - Affirmations motivate and inspire us. "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13
Ignite The Fire Within,
Rev Sheila P Spencer