Manifesting: New Age or Biblical?
The Cambridge Dictionary’s word of the year for 2024 was “manifesting.” A trendy topic across social media, from life coaches to celebrities, it refers to the practice of using visualization and affirmations to imagine or achieve what we desire. According to the British dictionary, it’s the “belief that doing so will make it more likely to happen.” While this practice has often been labeled as secular, “new agy” and criticized by Christians, I believe there are essential truths within the concept that align with biblical principles. Let me explain.
The Power of Words
I believe words have real power.
God spoke the world into existence (Genesis 1; Hebrews 11:3). Since we are made in God’s image, our words carry power as well. Proverbs, one of the Bible’s most wisdom-rich books, emphasizes the significance of our speech by making it the second most covered topic of the book. Numerous passages highlight the principles of positive thinking, faith, and the power of words: Psalm 34:13, Psalm 141:3, Proverbs 12:14, Proverbs 13:3, and Proverbs 18:21, to name a few.
Mark 11:23: “For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says.”
We shouldn’t underestimate the power of words—the devil certainly doesn’t! He consistently seeks to twist our words into negative declarations. The Bible teaches that whatever comes out of our mouths reflects what has taken root in our hearts (Matthew 15:18). Similarly, science shows that our minds believe the words we speak. Have you ever said something negative about yourself only for a friend to correct you? For years, I spoke negativity over myself—“I’m not enough,” “I’m not pretty,” “I’m fat”—and I believed every word, until now.
In 2022, the Mayo Clinic posted findings on positive thought patterns, emphasizing how self-talk influences outcomes. While some self-talk arises from logic, much of it stems from misconceptions and false expectations. I feel that these findings affirm something that Christians already know: not only do our words have power but so do our thoughts.
Manifesting vs. Faith
Could what the secular world calls manifestation simply be faith and prayer for Christians? When we pray, we direct our thoughts and desires to God, asking for His intervention.
Matthew 21:22: “Whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.”
Hebrews 11:1:“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
These verses reframe manifestation as belief in God’s promises. It’s faith—not human effort—that activates divine intervention. However, most of us have not been taught to prophesy with authority over their lives. I believe that’s why “manifesting” (or speaking lief) is an unpopular topic in faith circles. Nancy Dufresne of Dufresne Ministries puts it well:
“Our inheritance in Jesus is rich—whatever belongs to Jesus belongs to us! Jesus paid the price for us to enjoy healing, prosperity, peace, joy, and all the things that make life sweet. But whether or not we experience those blessings depends on how we think and receive.”
Stanford neuroscientist Dr. James R. Doty (@jamesdotymd) shared on a Mel Robbins podcast how setting intentions in our subconscious activates the brain’s networks to achieve goals. (Listen to the interview here). Many of his techniques mirror the practices of prayer and proclaiming positive things over ourselves. Pastor Gregory Dickow (@gregorydickow) teaches a similar principle—prophecy blessings by claiming God’s promises out loud. In the Bible Jabez did the same; This man asked for blessings and it was given to him (1 Chronicles 4:10), proving that faith-filled words activate God’s power.
How Christians Can Practice Biblical Manifestation
If our thoughts dictate our experiences (Proverbs 23:7) and transform us (Romans 12:2), how can we align these principles with God’s Word? Here are some practical steps:
1. Repeat Promises Out Loud: Use Bible verses in your affirmations. For example, if you need peace, declare, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast because they trust in you” (Isaiah 26:3).
2. Ask, Seek, Knock: “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you” (Matthew 7:7). Asking, seeking and knocking are action words synonymous with wanting/having a strong desire/acting upon those wants and needs. Visualize your prayers. Ask God to guide you and to align your desires with His will.
3. Practice Gratitude: Gratitude is central to both manifestation and Christianity. “Give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Make it a daily practice. Thank God for what you already have and what’s on the way.
4. Faith Leads to Action: “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:26). Write down your goals (prayer journal?) and take action, trusting that God is with you and that He’ll direct your steps.
5. Meditate and Read your Bible: Meditate on God’s Word to fuel your mind and overcome doubts while in action.
6. Speak Life Over Yourself: Proclaim God’s promises over your life with authority. For example, instead of manifesting success, declare, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13) to align your belief with Biblical verity.
Making biblical truths popular?
Viewed through a biblical lens, the Law of Attraction shares striking similarities with scripture – but is that even surprising since many business success methods are drawn in essence from the Bible? Both emphasize the power of belief, the value of positive thinking, and faith to shape reality. However, Christians must ground these practices in God’s sovereignty. While our thoughts and words are powerful, they operate under God’s authority and control.
By incorporating the Law of Attraction alongside biblical principles, believers can deepen their relationship with God and actively pursue the abundant life He offers. Through prayer, affirmations, and visualization, we align ourselves with God’s will and manifest outcomes that glorify Him.
We’ve only begun to scratch the surface of the power God has given us. Let’s use it wisely and faithfully to walk in His promises.
