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Should Christians Be ‘Manifesting’ Their Lives?

Should Christians Be ‘Manifesting’ Their Lives?

Scroll through Instagram, TikTok or YouTube, and it won’t take long to stumble upon influencers preaching the power of “manifestation.” From million-dollar homes to dream vacations, their posts make it seem like you’re just a few affirmations away from living your best life. But is this buzzy trend something Christians should buy into—or is it a cleverly disguised spiritual detour?

Manifestation, as a concept, isn’t new. It’s rooted in the so-called “law of attraction,” a philosophy that gained popularity with the 2006 bestseller The Secret. The idea is that if you think it and feel it, it’ll happen. Sounds harmless—or even empowering—on the surface. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll see that action often takes a backseat to feelings and affirmations.

And that’s where things start to get tricky.

The Manifestation Trap

A couple of years ago, I joined what was essentially an online Christian group of women that seemingly was a support group for entrepreneurs. Turns out, it was more of a Christian self-help group, and right out of the gate, they were teaching manifestation principles, wrapped up in vaguely spiritual language. I wanted to believe it was OK. I wanted to believe I could manifest my finances, a spouse, some kids, or at least an Instagram-worthy vacation.

I even convinced myself it was about giving God glory—ironic, right? Instead of trusting God, I was buying into a self-help scheme that was more about my effort than His power.

The turning point came during a deep dive into 1 and 2 Samuel. If you’ve read about King Saul, you know the guy wasn’t exactly a role model for godly leadership. One story in particular hit hard: In 1 Samuel 13, Saul, panicked that his troops were deserting, took matters into his own hands by offering a burnt sacrifice—a job reserved for the prophet Samuel. His reasoning? He wanted to secure God’s favor. Translation: He tried to manipulate God.

Samuel’s response was… not great. Saul’s impulsiveness cost him his kingdom, and his story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of trying to force God’s hand. His story is a clear indicator that manifestation isn’t something we should be dabbling in, and it’s not the only Biblical example telling us that message. 

Let’s break it down.

1. Manifestation Misuses Scripture

Manifestation enthusiasts love to quote Romans 4:17: “…call into existence the things that do not exist.” But context matters. This verse isn’t about humans manifesting their dreams—it’s about God’s power to fulfill His promises to Abraham. Big difference.

2. Manifestation vs. Speaking Life

Some argue that manifestation is no different than “speaking life,” a practice rooted in Scripture. But here’s the thing: Manifestation often elevates personal desires above God’s will, crossing the line into idolatry. John 14:6 reminds us, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” The goal isn’t to bend reality to our will—it’s to align our desires with God’s truth.

3. It Short-Circuits Spiritual Growth

Galatians 5:22-23 outlines the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities aren’t cultivated through shortcuts. Manifestation, by design, is about getting what you want now. It’s hard to develop patience or self-control when you’re laser-focused on immediate results.

4. It Distracts From True Worship

Manifestation shifts focus from worshiping God to worshiping outcomes. As Christians, we’re called to adore the Creator, not the created. Hebrews 11:3 says, “By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God.” Manifestation flips this, attempting to put us in the Creator’s seat. Spoiler: That never ends well.

The Real Question: Who’s in Charge?

At the heart of manifestation is a question of authority. Are we trusting God to provide what we need, or are we trying to take control? King Saul’s story shows us the consequences of choosing the latter. In 1 Samuel 13:13-14, Samuel tells Saul, “You have been foolish. You have not kept the command the Lord your God gave you…The Lord has found a man after His own heart.” Ouch.

The good news? We don’t have to repeat Saul’s mistakes. Trusting God means surrendering our plans and letting Him lead—even when it’s uncomfortable.

Social media might make manifestation seem like the answer to all your problems, but don’t be fooled. At its core, manifestation is a self-centered practice that distracts from God’s sovereignty. Instead of “manifesting” your life, consider meditating on Scripture.

Here are a few to start with:

  • Matthew 6:31-34: “Do not worry about tomorrow…”
  • Philippians 4:11-13: “I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances…”
  • Acts 2:46-48: “They broke bread…and praised God.”

These verses remind us that God is in control—and that’s a much better foundation for your life than any affirmation could offer.

© 2023 RELEVANT Media Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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