There is a power in love. When you know that you are loved unconditionally, you not only feel safe, you feel affirmed. Affirmation leads to empowerment. The moment Jesus came up from the waters of baptism the Holy Spirit descended upon him like a dove, the heavens were opened to him, and the voice of his Father declared, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” The love that Father God had for His Son came through words affirming his pleasure in him. He spoke these words out loud in front of other people. Cool, huh! A father speaking affirming words out loud to his son in front of other people. Just so we would know how Father God felt about Jesus he said so.
Fathers that affirm their sons and daughters with loving statements empower them with a deep sense of worth. You may have heard it taught that Father God affirmed Jesus before he had done anything in ministry. Jesus had not been led into the wilderness to overcome the temptation of the devil. He had not preached or taught anyone. He had not healed any sick person or set a demonized person free. He had not performed in any regard for the affirmation he received. Father God affirmed Jesus because he loved him, not because he had accomplished anything. Yet, the source of Jesus ministry flowed from the foundation of his Father’s affirmation.
Affirming love empowers people. When you are settled on the reality that Father God loves you and you have a few people in your life that agree with him concerning your worth, you face life with a certain confidence. It is the confidence that a father gives his children. When dad says he loves you and that he is well pleased with you, well that just does it, doesn’t it? If you are a dad, be like Father God and lovingly affirm your kids.
Father God is still affirming his children today. Open your heart to him and listen. You’ll see what I mean.