One of the sweet things about in living in community is freedom to speak affirmation into each other's lives. Through affirmation we are able to understand ourselves better, and to better understand and appreciate the way that God made us.
But what is sweeter than that? Affirmation from the word of God.
I experienced both of those things yesterday.
Affirmation within community: I had a difficult conversation with someone because of something that I said that was hurtful. Sometimes choose to say things that do not speak life into people. It is a journey that the Lord has been taking me on for years. I can see the redemptive work that he has done in this and I am very thankful. However, yesterday I sank into my old self and spoke out of turn on something. Immediately I felt sorry. I was able to talk to one of the two people and express my discomfort of hurting them. They accepted the apology and forgave me. Then they spoke words of life into me and affirmed that way that God made me, and that it is good. They helped me to see my fault, but also see how this can be turned into a strength if I were to let the Lord use it for his good. So, that was good and I am more aware of how the Lord made me.
Affirmation through God's word: I opened my bible yesterday to 1 Corinthians and read this,
"In this grace, God is enriching every aspect of your lives by gifting you with the right words to say
and everything that you need to know. In this way, your life story confirms the life story of the
Liberating King, so you are not ill-equipped or slighted on any necessary gifts as you patiently
anticipate the day when our Liberator, the Lord Jesus is revealed." 1 Corinthians 1:5-7 (The Voice Version)
Whoa there. Talk about applicable.
I have been on this journey of the Lord revealing to me what my gifts are and how to use them for his glory. Then I read this? And have that experience with mis using my gifts yesterday? God knew exactly what I needed to read and experience to help me on this journey.
And the best part is, it will help me to testify to who Jesus is, and wait for him with anticipation.
Bam.
Need some affirmation today? Seek the Lord and I know he will reveal his truth to you.
Love y'all.
-Kelsey
P.S. I wrote a poem about affirmation back on 2009. Read it HERE.