Years ago, I suffered from a recurrent ailment that was greatly affecting my life. I had prayed about it for years, and I had sought medical attention numerous times. Still, the affliction persisted. One day when I was seeking the Lord for my healing, He led me to Jesus' words in Mark 5:34 (NKJV): "Daughter, your faith has made you well. Go in peace, and be healed of your affliction."

I had read this verse many times, but on this occasion, I felt in my spirit that I was to take special note of it. So I wrote it down on a sticky note, and I posted it inside my bathroom medicine cabinet. Each time I opened that cabinet, I saw Jesus' words, and I looked at myself in the mirror, and spoke them directly and emphatically to myself. And every time I declared those words out loud, faith rose up in me, and I felt strengthened and encouraged.

Then I felt led to write out the Amplified translation of Jesus' words, and I memorized them and began declaring, "I will go into peace and be continually healed and free from every distressing bodily disease!" (Mark 5:34 AMP) Finally, I added, "I will NOT be afraid - I will keep on believing!" (Mark 5:36 AMP)

One day, after speaking these declarations to myself, it occurred to me that I had not had a single attack on my body from this affliction for many months. Now, years after my deliverance, I still speak to myself in front of my bathroom mirror every day, giving thanks to God for my healing.

The Bible says: "You will also declare a thing and it will be established for you; so light will shine on your ways." (Job 22:28 NKJV) This is God's promise to followers of Christ who believe His Word, and who are committed to declaring His will for their lives until they see it come to pass. Perhaps right now, you desperately need a breakthrough in your health, relationships, or finances - or some other area of your life. Don't despair. Seek the Lord today about which promises from His Word He wants you to claim as your own, and declare them to yourself until your victory is assured!

Prayer: Lord, I believe that Your Word is true, and that You are true to Your Word. I ask You to lead me to Scriptures that You want me to declare over myself and my circumstances, so that Your highest purposes will prevail in my life. Set a guard over my mouth, so that I will never speak words that could cause me to delay or forfeit the rewards, solutions, and opportunities You have for me. Thank You that as I speak in agreement with Your Word, I will receive all the good things that are my inheritance in Christ!

- J. M. Farro