Seems like every business coach out there tells you to decree and declare in business or just manifest it. But is it doing more harm than good?
The Subtle Shift from Faith to Self
I remember when I first started my business, I was inundated with messages about the power of positive declarations. “Speak it into existence,” they said. At first, it felt empowering. But over time, I noticed a shift. My prayers became less about seeking God’s will and more about asserting my own desires. I was no longer asking; I was demanding.
Misinterpreting Matthew 7:7
Matthew 7:7 says, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.” This verse encourages us to approach God with our requests, trusting in His wisdom and timing. However, the “declare and decree” approach twists this invitation into a formula for getting what we want, when we want it.
The original Greek text uses present imperatives for “ask,” “seek,” and “knock,” implying continuous action: keep asking, keep seeking, keep knocking. This suggests a persistent, ongoing relationship with God, rather than a one-time command to receive immediate results.
By turning these actions into a formula for success, we risk treating God as a vending machine, expecting Him to dispense blessings on demand. This mindset shifts our focus from seeking God’s will to pursuing our own desires, which can lead us away from genuine faith and into a form of spiritual manipulation.
Instead of relying on self-proclaimed declarations, we should focus on humble, persistent prayer, seeking God’s will in our business endeavors. By doing so, we align ourselves with His purpose and experience true success that honors Him.
The Danger of Decree and Declare In Business
The practice of decreeing and declaring often stems from a desire for control. We want to believe that our words have the power to shape our reality. But this mindset can lead us away from genuine faith and into a form of spiritual manipulation. As one article notes, “Decreeing and declaring do NOT make your prayers more powerful.”
Aligning Our Business with God’s Will
In business, it’s essential to seek God’s guidance rather than imposing our own plans. Instead of declaring success, we should ask for wisdom. Instead of decreeing prosperity, we should seek God’s provision. This approach keeps us humble and dependent on Him. One of my favorite Youtuber’s that I enjoy is Stefanie Gass. She’s committed to sound biblical business advice and allowing Jesus to be the CEO of your business. Her teachings have allowed me to go from self control to relinquishing control and fully trusting GOD for his good and perfect will.
A Personal Reflection
There was a time when I declared that a particular contract was mine. I believed it wholeheartedly. But the deal fell through. I was devastated. It wasn’t until I surrendered my desires and sought God’s will that I found peace. Eventually, a better opportunity came along—one that aligned perfectly with my values and mission. I also don’t go naming and declaring my goals I allow GOD to direct my paths to his will.
Conclusion
The “declare and decree” approach may offer a sense of control, but it can lead us away from genuine faith and dependence on God. By returning to the simple act of asking, seeking, and knocking, we align our hearts with His will and open ourselves to His best for our lives and businesses.
If you’re ready to shift from self-reliance to God-dependence in your business, download these resources:
God Is My CEO: 31 Day Devotional