“True biblical affirmation has several components. It is true, biblical and it should affirm something.”

Pastor Sam Crabtree of Bethlehem Baptist Church discusses the power of God-centered affirmations.

Sam draws distinctions between affirmation and flattery – it’s all about the posture of the heart. When affirming someone, ask a hard question: Who are we crediting for this person’s success, character, or outfit? If we credit God, we’re affirming them in a positive, humbling manner.

“Biblical affirmations are those that align with biblical values and specifically and especially the qualities that are in Christ Jesus.”

Sam uses a recent example to illustrate his point.

“I’m wearing this little rubber band bracelet. I have a ten-year-old granddaughter who made this for me yesterday. Now what am I commending about her that’s biblical? I suppose I could commend her joyfulness in doing it? Her sincere desire to honor her grandpa? Maybe I could affirm her enthusiasm in giving it to me. But what I’m saying here is that it’s good to commend the things that God commends in the Scripture. And He commends them by becoming them in the incarnate Christ Jesus.”

Pastor Sam explores several ways we can practice affirmation using this framework.

1. Point out ways that God is at work in a person’s character.

2. Pray for God to open your eyes to another person’s Christ-like qualities.

3. Use a kind word to build a bridge of commonality with a person who might hold different political or religious beliefs.

Sam includes more suggestions and examples in his book, .

Key Scriptures: Colossians 1:17; Proverbs 22:11; Colossians 4:6; Hebrews 3:13

Featured Songs: Speak Life by TobyMac; Voice of Truth by Casting Crowns; More Than Conquerors by Rend Collective

Highlight : What is biblical affirmation?

Praise that honors God