What are Decrees and Declarations?
Let’s break down these terms.
A decree is an official order or pronouncement, usually associated with authority. Spiritually speaking, it’s a strong statement of faith based on the foundation of God’s word. On the other hand, a declaration is a positive statement of truth, often spoken aloud, that helps you align yourself with God’s promises and purposes.
Proverbs 18:21 tells us that “death and life are in the power of the tongue.” This highlights the power of our words to create. In the Bible, we see examples of decrees and declarations, like God’s creation (“Let there be light”) and prophetic pronouncements.
The purpose of using decrees and declarations? To bring our thoughts, words, and actions into alignment with God’s will and invite divine intervention into specific situations.
It’s important to remember that decrees and declarations aren’t magic spells. They are expressions of faith and trust in God. To wield them effectively, you must know God’s word and His promises.
The Scriptural Foundation for Decrees and Declarations
The practice of decrees and declarations has roots in the Bible. Let’s take a look at some examples.
God’s Decrees and Declarations
In the Bible, God’s decrees and declarations are presented as powerful and formative.
Creation as a Divine Decree
Genesis 1 tells how God spoke the world into being. Phrases like “Let there be…” illustrate the power of God’s word and demonstrate that God’s spoken words are law in the spiritual realm.
Prophetic Declarations
The Old Testament prophets declared God’s word and, in doing so, shaped events and destinies. Isaiah’s prophecies about the Messiah, for example, are declarations that came to pass.
Biblical Examples of Human Decrees and Declarations
The Bible also shows how human decrees and declarations can have a profound impact.
Positive Declarations of Faith
Caleb declared his faith that the Israelites would possess the promised land (Numbers 13:30). David declared his victory over Goliath (1 Samuel 17:45-47).
Negative Decrees and Their Consequences
The Israelites’ negative confession in the wilderness led to 40 years of wandering. It’s important to speak life, not death.
How decrees and declarations work
The use of decrees and declarations is a complex and deeply personal spiritual practice. Here’s a look at some of the beliefs surrounding how they work:
The spiritual mechanism
Proponents of decrees and declarations believe they work through a combination of aligning with God’s will, releasing faith, and renewing the mind.
Alignment with God’s will
The idea is that decrees and declarations are most effective when they’re rooted in the Bible and aligned with God’s purposes. Before making declarations, it’s important to seek God’s guidance through prayer and discernment.
Releasing faith
Speaking God’s promises aloud is said to release faith and activate the supernatural. As Hebrews 11:1 says, “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
Renewing the mind
Romans 12:2 talks about transformation through the renewing of your mind. Declarations can supposedly help reprogram negative thought patterns. Consistent declarations can change your mindset and belief system.
The role of the Holy Spirit
Many believe the Holy Spirit plays a vital role in the effectiveness of decrees and declarations, offering empowerment, guidance, confirmation, and witness.
Empowerment and guidance
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to speak with authority and guides them in making effective declarations. This involves praying in the Spirit and listening for God’s voice.
Confirmation and witness
The Holy Spirit confirms God’s Word in people’s hearts and bears witness to the truth of their declarations. Experiencing peace and assurance as you declare God’s Word is considered a sign of its effectiveness.
Practical Application: Making Effective Decrees and Declarations
So, how do you actually do this? What does it look like to make decrees and declarations that mean something?
Key Principles
- Know God’s Word. Base your decrees and declarations on scripture. Dig into the Bible to find God’s promises that speak to your situation.
- Speak with Authority. Declare God’s Word confidently and without hesitation. Believe in the power of the words you’re saying.
- Be Specific. Vague declarations tend to be less effective than specific ones. Instead of saying “I declare prosperity,” try “I declare a financial breakthrough in my business.”
- Consistency and Perseverance. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see results right away. Keep declaring God’s Word consistently. Persistence in faith is key.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
- Decreeing Outside of God’s Will. Make sure your declarations line up with God’s character and purposes. Avoid declarations that are selfish or manipulative.
- Speaking Negatively. Be careful to avoid negative words and thoughts. Instead, focus on speaking life and hope.
- Relying on Formulas. Decrees and declarations aren’t magic spells. They’re expressions of your faith. Your relationship with God is much more important than reciting specific words.
Ultimately, making decrees and declarations is about aligning your will with God’s will and speaking that alignment into existence with faith and conviction.
Decrees and Declarations for Specific Areas of Life
If you’re interested in using decrees and declarations as a way to manifest positive outcomes in your life, you might want to try these decrees and declarations in some key areas:
Finances and Prosperity
Declaring God’s Provision
- “I declare that God is my source, and He will supply all my needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).
- “I decree that I am blessed coming in and blessed going out” (Deuteronomy 28:6).
Overcoming Financial Struggles
- “I declare that every debt is paid, and I am free from financial bondage.”
- “I decree that I am a lender and not a borrower” (Deuteronomy 28:12).
Health and Healing
Declaring Divine Health
- “I declare that by His stripes I am healed” (Isaiah 53:5).
- “I decree that my body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and I am filled with divine health.”
Overcoming Sickness
- “I declare that every sickness and disease must leave my body now in Jesus’ name.”
- “I decree that I am strong and healthy, full of vitality and energy.”
Relationships
Restoring Broken Relationships
- “I declare that God is restoring my relationships and bringing healing and reconciliation.”
- “I decree that love, peace, and unity prevail in my family and friendships.”
Attracting Godly Relationships
- “I declare that I attract godly and healthy relationships into my life.”
- “I decree that I am surrounded by people who love and support me.”
Personal Growth and Purpose
Discovering Your Purpose
- “I declare that God is revealing my purpose and destiny.”
- “I decree that I am walking in alignment with God’s plan for my life.”
Overcoming Challenges
- “I declare that I am more than a conqueror through Christ who loves me” (Romans 8:37).
- “I decree that I am overcoming every obstacle and challenge in my life.”
Practical Examples: Prayers, Decrees, and Declarations for Breakthroughs
Sometimes, you need a little something to get you started. Here are some prayers, decrees, and declarations you can use as a springboard to creating your own powerful statements of faith and intention. Feel free to adapt them to fit your specific situation.
Prayers, Decrees, and Declarations for Breakthroughs
Note that these are pre-researched sections, meaning they’re examples to inspire your own personalized prayers, decrees, and declarations.
- A Prayer for Breaking Through Every Barrier:
Heavenly Father, I come before you seeking your divine intervention. I ask for the strength to break through every barrier that stands in my way, be it physical, emotional, or spiritual. Grant me the wisdom and courage to overcome these obstacles and step into the destiny you have planned for me. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
- Decree of Victory Over Stagnation:
I decree and declare victory over stagnation in my life. I speak life and movement into every area where I have felt stuck. I am breaking free from old patterns and embracing new opportunities for growth and advancement. I am moving forward into my purpose with confidence and strength.
- Prayer for Breakthrough in Finances and Prosperity:
Lord, I ask for a breakthrough in my finances and prosperity. Open the floodgates of heaven and pour out blessings that I cannot contain. Guide me to make wise financial decisions, and grant me opportunities to increase my income and build wealth. I trust in your provision and abundance. Amen.
- Decree of Divine Favor for Open Doors:
I decree that divine favor surrounds me and opens doors that no one can shut. I declare that opportunities align perfectly for my success and advancement. I am walking in favor, and I am experiencing breakthroughs in every area of my life.
- A Prayer for Personal Growth and Breakthrough:
God, I seek your guidance for personal growth and breakthrough. Help me to identify and overcome my weaknesses, and empower me to develop my strengths. I am committed to becoming the best version of myself, and I trust in your transformative power. Amen.
- Declaration for Overcoming Financial Struggles:
I declare that I am overcoming financial struggles. I am breaking free from debt and lack. I am attracting abundance and prosperity into my life. My finances are flourishing, and I am walking in financial freedom.
- Prayer for Breaking Free from Strongholds:
Lord, I ask for your power to break free from every stronghold that holds me captive. I renounce every negative thought pattern, addiction, and limiting belief. I am free in Christ, and I am walking in victory. Amen.
- Decree for Spiritual Breakthrough and Growth:
I decree spiritual breakthrough and growth in my life. I am deepening my relationship with God, and I am growing in wisdom and understanding. I am experiencing spiritual breakthroughs that propel me forward in my faith.
- Breaking the Chains of Oppression Prayer:
Father, I come against every chain of oppression that binds me. I break free from fear, anxiety, and discouragement. I am walking in freedom and victory, and I am experiencing your peace and joy. Amen.
- Decree for Success in All Your Endeavors:
I decree success in all my endeavors. I am blessed in my work, my relationships, and my health. I am achieving my goals and fulfilling my purpose. I am a success in every area of my life.
- A Prayer for Breakthrough in Relationships:
God, I ask for breakthroughs in my relationships. Heal broken bonds, restore trust, and bring harmony and understanding. Surround me with positive and supportive relationships that uplift and encourage me. Amen.
- Declaration of Healing and Restoration:
I declare healing and restoration in my body, mind, and spirit. I am whole, healthy, and vibrant. I am experiencing your healing power, and I am restored to wholeness.
- A Prayer for Breakthrough in Career and Work:
Lord, I seek your guidance for a breakthrough in my career and work. Open doors for advancement, provide opportunities for growth, and grant me favor with my superiors and colleagues. I am thriving in my career, and I am fulfilling my potential. Amen.
- Decree for Breakthrough in Health and Healing:
I decree breakthrough in my health and healing. I am declaring that my body is strong, healthy, and full of vitality. I am experiencing complete healing and restoration.
- A Prayer for Family Restoration and Breakthrough:
Father, I ask for family restoration and breakthrough. Heal broken relationships, restore unity, and bring love and understanding. I am praying for my family, and I trust in your power to restore and heal. Amen.
- Prayer for Financial Abundance and Wealth:
Lord, I ask for financial abundance and wealth. Open the doors of opportunity and bless me with resources to fulfill my purpose. I am a steward of your blessings, and I use my wealth to bless others. Amen.
- Declaration of Success Over Challenges:
I declare success over every challenge that comes my way. I am strong, courageous, and capable. I am overcoming obstacles and achieving victory in every situation.
- Decree for Restoration of Dreams and Visions:
I decree the restoration of my dreams and visions. I am reclaiming my passions and pursuing my goals with determination. I am seeing my dreams come to pass, and I am fulfilling my purpose.
- A Prayer for Mental Clarity and Breakthrough:
God, I ask for mental clarity and breakthrough. Clear my mind of confusion, doubt, and fear. Grant me wisdom, discernment, and insight. I am thinking clearly, and I am making sound decisions. Amen.
- Decree for Favor in Every Area of Life:
I decree favor in every area of my life. I am surrounded by divine favor, and I am experiencing blessings beyond measure. I am walking in favor, and I am achieving success in all that I do.
- A Prayer for Deliverance from Oppression:
Father, I ask for deliverance from oppression. Break every chain that binds me and set me free. I am walking in freedom and victory, and I am experiencing your peace and joy. Amen.
Putting It All Together
Decrees and declarations are powerful tools for aligning yourself with God’s will and releasing your faith into the world. Remember, they’re most effective when they’re grounded in scripture, spoken with authority, and applied consistently to your life.
But decrees and declarations aren’t magic words. They’re most powerful when rooted in a deep and personal relationship with God. Seek His guidance and wisdom in all things, and let that inform what you declare.
I encourage you to begin using decrees and declarations in your daily life. Start small. Find scriptures that resonate with you and speak them aloud. Believe in the potential for transformation and breakthrough. Don’t be afraid to claim the promises God has made to you.
Trust in God’s promises, and believe that He is working on your behalf, even when you can’t see it. As Isaiah 43:19 says, “Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.” Believe it, declare it, and watch God work.