Understanding Unity's Principles of Affirmative Prayer
Affirmative prayer is a powerful and transformative spiritual practice that lies at the heart of Unity’s teachings. Rooted in the idea that our thoughts and words have creative power, Affirmative Prayer is more than just a request for help or a plea for intervention. It is a practice that aligns our consciousness with the divine presence within us, affirming that the good we seek is already ours. This blog will explore Unity.org's principles of Affirmative Prayer, its importance, how to engage in it, and its historical origins.
The Origins of Affirmative Prayer
The concept of Affirmative Prayer is deeply intertwined with the New Thought movement, of which Unity is a prominent part. The New Thought movement emerged in the late 19th century and emphasized the power of positive thinking, the divine nature of humanity, and the ability to create our reality through thought. One of the central figures in this movement was Charles Fillmore, who, along with his wife Myrtle Fillmore, founded the Unity movement in 1889.
Charles Fillmore’s teachings were influenced by the belief that God is present within each individual and that our thoughts have the power to shape our experiences. This idea laid the groundwork for Affirmative Prayer, which shifts the focus from asking for divine intervention to affirming the truth of our divine nature and the good that is already present in our lives.
The Principles of Affirmative Prayer
Affirmative Prayer is built on several key principles that distinguish it from traditional forms of prayer. Here’s a closer look at these principles:
1. Affirmation of Divine Truth: Affirmative Prayer begins with the understanding that God is omnipresent and that divine truth is always accessible. Instead of asking for something to be given, Affirmative Prayer involves affirming that the desired outcome is already a reality in the divine mind.
2. Focus on Positive Outcomes: In Affirmative Prayer, the focus is on positive outcomes rather than dwelling on problems or negative circumstances. This practice helps to align our thoughts with the highest good and opens the way for the manifestation of positive experiences.
3. Recognition of Our Divine Nature: Unity teaches that each individual is an expression of the divine. Affirmative Prayer emphasizes recognizing this divine nature within ourselves and others, affirming our inherent worth and potential.
4. Alignment with Divine Will: Affirmative Prayer is not about imposing our will on the universe but about aligning our thoughts and desires with the divine will. This alignment allows us to move in harmony with the natural flow of good in our lives.
5. Power of Words: Words have creative power in Affirmative Prayer. By speaking affirmations of truth and positive outcomes, we help to bring those realities into manifestation. This principle is based on the understanding that our words are a form of energy that can influence our experiences.
The Importance of Affirmative Prayer
Affirmative Prayer is an important spiritual practice in Unity because it empowers individuals to take an active role in their spiritual growth and the creation of their life experiences. Here are some key reasons why Affirmative Prayer is considered essential:
1. Empowerment: Affirmative Prayer empowers individuals by reminding them of their divine nature and their ability to co-create their reality with God. This practice fosters a sense of personal responsibility and spiritual autonomy.
2. Transformation of Consciousness: By focusing on positive outcomes and affirming divine truth, Affirmative Prayer helps to shift consciousness from fear, doubt, and limitation to faith, love, and abundance. This transformation of consciousness can lead to profound changes in one’s life.
3. Healing: Affirmative Prayer is often used as a tool for healing, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. By affirming health, wholeness, and well-being, individuals can align themselves with the healing power of the divine.
4. Deepening Spiritual Connection: Engaging in Affirmative Prayer deepens one’s connection to the divine presence within and around them. This practice helps individuals to cultivate a closer relationship with God and to experience the peace and guidance that comes from this connection.
5. Manifestation of Good: Affirmative Prayer is a powerful tool for manifesting good in one’s life. By affirming the desired outcomes and aligning with divine will, individuals can attract positive experiences and opportunities.
How to Do Affirmative Prayer
Engaging in Affirmative Prayer is a simple yet profound practice that can be incorporated into daily life. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do Affirmative Prayer:
1. Center Yourself: Begin by finding a quiet space where you can focus without distractions. Take a few deep breaths and allow yourself to become fully present in the moment. You may want to close your eyes and take a few moments to relax and center your thoughts.
2. Recognize the Divine Presence: Start your prayer by acknowledging the presence of God within and around you. You might say something like, "I know that God is here with me now, in every breath I take and in every thought I think."
3. Affirm the Desired Outcome: Instead of asking for what you want, affirm that it is already yours. For example, if you are praying for healing, you might say, "I affirm that I am whole, healthy, and filled with divine life and energy." Speak these affirmations with conviction, knowing that they are true in the divine mind.
4. Give Thanks: Express gratitude for the truth you have affirmed and for the good that is manifesting in your life. Gratitude helps to reinforce the positive energy of your prayer and opens you to receive even more good.
5. Release and Let Go: Conclude your prayer by releasing your affirmations into the care of the divine, trusting that they will manifest in the right and perfect way. You might say, "I release these words, knowing that they are fulfilled in the perfect time and way. And so it is."
6. Live in Faith: After your prayer, continue to live in the faith that your affirmations are already being realized. Look for signs of their manifestation in your life and remain open to the guidance and opportunities that come your way.
Conclusion
Affirmative Prayer is a central practice in Unity that empowers individuals to align with divine truth and manifest positive outcomes in their lives. By affirming the good that is already present, focusing on positive outcomes, and recognizing our divine nature, Affirmative Prayer helps to transform consciousness, heal, and deepen our spiritual connection. Whether you are new to Unity or a long-time practitioner, incorporating Affirmative Prayer into your daily life can lead to profound spiritual growth and a greater experience of peace, joy, and abundance.
For those interested in exploring Affirmative Prayer further, Unity.org offers a wealth of resources, including books, articles, and online classes that can help you deepen your understanding and practice of this transformative spiritual tool.
References
- Unity.org. "Affirmative Prayer." Unity. Accessed August 27, 2024. [https://www.unity.org/article/affirmative-prayer](https://www.unity.org/article/affirmative-prayer)
- Fillmore, Charles. Teach Us to Pray. Unity Books, 1941.
- Braden, Charles S. Spirits in Rebellion: The Rise and Development of New Thought. Southern Methodist University Press, 1963.