So, you want to create with and for the Creator by using the creative gifts God gave you?
Do you feel that creating something is often the easiest and most joyful part of using your talents? Whether it is writing a story, painting a picture, or choreographing a dance.
Are you challenged by the technical complexities that hinder your ability to reach out and share your creative gifts with others? If you are seeking guidance on utilizing what God has bestowed upon you, let this blog be a source of inspiration and encouragement as we serve our Lord together.
Creative amateurs like us
As people with creative talents, most of us earn our living in fields unrelated to our creative abilities. We pursue our passion as a hobby or find ways to use our skills in other settings, such as our local church.
We desire to share the gifts we believe God has given us yet don't claim to be the best in our field. Many others are more skilled. Instead, we are a community of ordinary people who want to share our abilities with others.
Many of us are active members of churches, using our talents to contribute to the community, satisfied with the reward of the joy of giving of ourselves.
To be perfect or not to be perfect
Consider the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30; God simply asks us to use the creative gifts He has blessed us with, without the need to outperform or even match up to others.
Are you one of those people who lose faith in their creative abilities too soon and let an unattainable ideal hold you back from creating? Often, we fall prey to comparing our work to others', which leaves us feeling inferior and discourages us from pursuing our passion.
Trying to measure up to others can only lead to discouragement or pride. So, keep going and use your unique gift for His glory.
Using your gifts by creating with the Creator
I've learned that the key is to take that initial step. Pen down the words that naturally flow out of you for that story you've been yearning to write. Sketch the first line for your artwork or take the first step in your dance. Sing the opening note of your song.
Improvement is inevitable. Keep your eye on Who you are creating for and let Him create alongside and through you.
Heaven is a wonderful place
Have you ever wondered what heaven will be like? Many of us have, and I’m no exception.
Jesus said He has gone to prepare a place for us.
While I may not have experience in architecture or carpentry, I enjoy sketching building plans and working on DIY projects.
My creations may not always be perfectly proportioned or functional, but that doesn't stop me from dreaming about the possibilities in heaven. I dream of the day that I reach heaven, and Jesus greets me with open arms, saying, "Susan, I've been patiently waiting to build your room so we can build it together."
Back to the drawing board
The truth is, there's no need to fantasize about collaborating with Jesus. You can do it today, right now! Simply invite Him to join you as you write, draw, paint, or engage in any other creative pursuit, and He will be beside you.
He'll assist you in finding the right words, provide the perfect image, and bless your creative efforts.
Using your gifts by creating for the Creator
There is a mother in my church who has four children and fosters three more. She has confided in us about frequently feeling frustrated about not having enough time or energy to devote to the Lord. However, she has realized that everything she has is a gift from God. By doing the tasks God has presented her with, she is fulfilling His plan for her life. By using her gifts to care for her family – whether changing diapers, cooking meals, or cleaning rooms – she sees it as a service to God. Adopting this mindset has allowed her to create a peaceful and secure environment for her loved ones.
A window to heaven
Are you familiar with icons? I'm not referring to computer icons, but those found on the walls of churches. Unlike my upbringing, my current church embraces the use of icons.
I've learned that the purpose of icons is to be a window into heaven.
Additionally, because every person is created in God's likeness – people are icons reflecting His image.
Thus, when we help those in need, we are, in turn, serving our Creator.
Creative Profession or Hobby
Whether your creative work is for the church or a personal hobby, as long as you are not seeking to glorify yourself, you are creating for the Creator.
However, this is not to say that we won't receive any personal gain from our creative endeavors.
That is one of the wonderful things about creating with and for God. When we offer Him our gifts, He generously bestows us with blessings packed down, overflowing, and in abundance.
How to share the creative gifts God gave us
So, now with a clear understanding of who we are creating with and for, and the expectations placed upon us, the next question arises: how do we bring our creations to the world? For years, I had stashed over 30 paintings on a table in my office, without hardly anyone having seen them. The three books I had written remained unread until I started this journey and got them published. Until 2019, I hadn't prioritized sharing my accomplishments. Now, I am approaching my passion more seriously and exploring creative avenues for getting my work out there. Though initially just a hobby, my writing and artwork now hold greater significance.
Let your light shine
I have previously used my Sunday School curriculum for children, and drama in various programs for adults and children. I have also performed in song and dance at various venues. Sharing my talents in these areas, which are more openly celebrated in a church community, has been a rewarding experience. Joining choirs or worship teams is a great platform for singing enthusiasts. Those who enjoy teaching can volunteer as Sunday school teachers where your passion for writing, singing, dancing, drama, crafts, and other art forms finds plenty of outlets. As you engage with eager young minds you will receive their honest feedback as children are the ultimate critics. You'll always know if your ideas are winners or need some revision. There's always room for growth and improvement, and the rewards of watching the children grow and learn are immeasurable.
Reaching a wider audience
There are hundreds of groups that support different art forms and share how you can reach a wider audience.
Check locally first as person-to-person contact is important. Once you join one virtual group you will automatically find new groups with similar interests.
Many groups are free to join. Before you pay for an expensive membership, check out the competition.
When I started my search to publish I found a wonderful group. Only later did I realize that their focus and competence were (at the time) on non-fiction. Many of the decisions I made were not relevant to fiction. I wish now that I had searched more before getting in too deep. I have had to revise my website, advertising, and more to fit the correct genre.
There are also many blogs on How To Do almost anything you need to learn. Read several and compare.
Get help and keep in contact
I'd love to hear what you are doing in your creative process. It's a great way to help one another reach our full potential. Having the support of fellow believers and creatives allows us to strive to exceed our own expectations.
Whether you're seeking guidance or inspiration, feel free to reach out to me through the Contact Form located at the bottom of my home page.
If you are interested in writing and publishing you are welcome to contact me and I can share more about which groups and blogs I use to learn and grow.
If you want to keep up-to-date on my work, feel free to sign up for my email newsletter by sending a contact form at the bottom of my homepage.
You can also follow me on Social Media. I am most active on Facebook and Instagram.
God Bless you in your endeavors!
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