The power of affirmations

I knew upon my arrival this fall that my junior year of college would be the most difficult semester in my academic career due to an extremely challenging course load and busy extracurricular schedule. Therefore, I used the week before classes to prepare my mind, body, and soul for the testing year ahead of me. I constantly went to God in prayer, meditated, and studied the word for reconciliation.

When the school year began, sure enough, as I predicted, my life began to move at a fast pace. I was so busy that I barely set aside time for myself and God. Although I seemed to have mastered the art of time management the past two years, this year it seemed to be impossible to accomplish. As days progressed I began to feel fatigued, and I also suffered from chronic migraines. When this daily stress began to affect my health, I knew I had a serious problem and that I needed to find a solution fast.

After crying to my Grandmother about the issue that seemed to be unsolvable, she said, "I know exactly what you need, check your mail in a couple of days." She sent me a book of monthly spiritual affirmations by Laura Harvey in the mail. She defines affirmations as positive statements of truth that lift us out of false thinking and into the consciousness of Spirit. Since my old plan wasn't working, I decided to try something new. I recited a daily affirmation every morning when I opened my eyes. I focused on four affirmations specifically: Inner peace, Guidance, Healing, and Prosperity.

Inner Peace. "With each breath I breath, I am aware of God's peaceful presence. The peace of God feels my heart." This affirmation is one of the most important to me because although I may have a busy to do list and plenty of academic deadlines to meet, I relax and take a few deep breaths to become aware of God's peaceful presence while releasing anxiety or dissatisfaction. Even after I return my attention to the activities of the day, the peace I feel within reflects in the words I speak and actions I take.

Guidance. "I am inspired and guided by the light of God. My way is made clear as I move forward in faith." Important decisions are always to be made on a daily basis regarding finances, relationships, or my future endeavors, so after I quote this affirmation I close my eyes and remove my attention from any confusion. I always remember that God illuminates a path to my highest good. It may not be clear to me what will happen in a day, a week, or month; however, I open my heart to clarity and confidence.

Healing. "The healing power of the Spirit renews me. I am energized with perfect life." After consistently quoting daily affirmations, to God be the glory, my migraines no longer existed. I would stop to calm my thoughts, rest my body, and focus on the healing power of the Spirit that moves through me. I visualize myself as vital, healthy, well and whole.

Prosperity. "The Spirit supplies my every good. I rejoice in the full expression of God's good in my life." I always carry the joy of God into whatever I do. My work life responds to my mental attitude and in turn compensates me with joy and prosperity.

The power of mediation and prayer has been the source of my strength this semester. The hustle and bustle of life caused me to lose sight of that for a moment, and things became even more hectic. I learned that in order to keep going, you must speak life and encourage yourself. These affirmations keep me in a place to feel relief and tranquility regardless of what is going on around me. Ephesians 4:22-23 reads, "You were taught to put away your former way of life… and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds." I thank God for leading me to these affirmations so that I may be joyful and recognize my wholeness with him on a daily basis.