Archive for October, 2009

When it comes to worldly affairs, the saying, “Seeing is
believing” reigns supreme.

When you *see* someone accomplish something, you start to
*believe* in that person’s ability. If a product delivers what it
promises, you then believe that it works. When you see a
“formula” yield positive results, you begin to believe in it.

Evidence is essential in order for people to believe. This has
led to the saying, “I’ll believe it when I see it.” The proof is
in the pudding.

But in spiritual affairs, the opposite is true. “Believing is
seeing.” If you believe first, you will see that thing that you
believe in manifest itself in front of your very eyes. That’s a
testament to the awesome power of belief. This has led to another saying:

However, for most people, believing *is* the problem.

That’s why most people who lack conviction when they recite
affirmations, for instance, are missing the secret ingredient
that’s necessary to materialize their dreams.

If you’ve ever encountered some internal resistance when you
first read or speak a positive affirmation, that’s an indication
that you do not really believe what you’re saying. For example,
how can you really believe the affirmation, “I am perfectly
healthy in body, mind and spirit” when outer appearances point to the

An important part of believing is to feel “as if it has already
happened.” I have found that one of the best ways to evoke that
feeling is to express *gratitude* after you recite an
affirmation.

Just saying the words, “Thank you” after you state your
affirmation reinforces the belief that the universe (or God, or
your Creator, or whatever name you call the Supreme Being) has already

If there was ever a “formula” for manifesting desires, this is
it. Ancient spiritual manuscripts, including the Bible, emphasize
that a single-minded belief is essential in receiving what you
ask for. They also warn against double-mindedness. Know with
absolute and unwavering certainty that what you are affirming is
already yours. “If you can believe, all things are possible to
him who believes.” So believe that it’s already done by simply
saying “Thank you” or assuming an attitude of gratitude after
affirming what you want. I once heard a wonderful quotation from
an anonymous author that says it profoundly: “We can start with
who we are and what we have today, apply gratitude, then let it
work it’s magic. Say thank you, until you mean it. If you say it
long enough, you will believe it. Today will shine the
transforming light of gratitude on all the circumstances of my
life.”