Issue #004

Hey there, my friend! One of the greatest gifts you’ll ever embrace as an artist is the freedom to simply be who God created you to be—without apology, without striving, and without comparison.

Yet if we’re honest, comparison is something that can sneak in so easily, especially in today’s world of endless scrolling and highlight reels. It’s subtle at first: admiring someone else’s work, seeing their success, questioning your own progress. But if left unchecked, it can quietly erode your confidence and steal the joy that should define your creative process.

This week, we’re diving deep into what it means to fully own your identity as an artist without falling into the trap of comparison. We’ll anchor ourselves in truth from Galatians 6:4-5 and take practical steps toward a healthier, joy-filled creative journey. Plus, I’ve got a super simple tech tip to help you get organized, a special podcast episode I think you’ll love, and encouragement across every part of your Core4 journey. Let’s get started!

Keep creating, keep trusting, and remember–your story matters, your art matters, and most of all, you matter.

I’m cheering you on always!
​
In His love and creativity,
Matt Tommey
The Thriving Christian Artist

Click the button to subscribe for free to The Weekly and get an email reminder every Wednesday so you never miss an issue. ​

? CONNECT
“Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load.” — Galatians 6:4-5 (NIV)

When God designed you, He wasn’t working off a template or trying to recreate something He already made. He formed you as a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, with a creative calling that only you can fulfill. Comparison whispers lies that what you have to offer isn’t enough. But the truth is, God’s blueprint for your life is not only enough—it’s extraordinary.

Prayer:
Father, thank You for creating me uniquely and with great intention. Forgive me for the times I’ve compared myself to others instead of celebrating the life You’ve designed for me. Help me walk boldly and joyfully in the path You’ve set before me. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

Action Step:
Each morning this week, take one minute to thank God for a specific part of your creative journey—whether it’s your skill, your passion, your progress, or simply your willingness to keep showing up.

?CLARIFY
Comparison often muddies the waters of clarity. When you’re focused on someone else’s race, it’s easy to lose sight of your own. Galatians 6 reminds us to “carry our own load.” Your goals, your dreams, your assignment—they are yours, handcrafted by the Father.

Reflection:
Where have you been looking sideways instead of forward? What is one goal you know God has put on your heart that deserves your focused attention this week?

Action Step:
Choose one creative or business goal for this week that aligns with your calling—not influenced by what others are doing. Write it down and take one clear action toward it today.

? CREATE
Comparison is creativity’s kryptonite. When you start measuring your work against others, you lose the raw, authentic flow that makes your art come alive. Remember, God isn’t asking you to create like anyone else—He’s inviting you to create from the wellspring He placed inside you.

Motivation:
Your artistic voice has value because it carries the fingerprints of your Creator. Staying true to that voice isn’t just good practice—it’s worship.

Action Step:
Set aside 30 minutes this week for a “comparison-free” creative session. No social media, no outside inspiration—just you, God, and the blank page, canvas, clay, or whatever medium you love.

? CULTIVATE
One of the healthiest ways to break free from comparison is to celebrate the victories of others genuinely. In the Kingdom, someone else’s success never diminishes your own. It only proves that God is moving—and He’s more than big enough to bless you too!

Biblical Encouragement:
Romans 12:15 reminds us, “Rejoice with those who rejoice.”

Action Step:
The same principle applies to cultivating your audience. Celebrate your collectors, your followers, your fellow artists. As you bless others, you’ll build authentic, life-giving connections. Choose one artist or client this week and publicly celebrate their work or success—either by sharing their work, commenting meaningfully, or sending them a personal note of encouragement.

? TECH TIP FOR THRIVING
If you’re feeling a little buried under paper scraps and scattered information, it’s time to bring some order to the chaos! Google Sheets is a free, easy-to-use tool that can help you stay organized without getting overwhelmed.

Start an “Artwork Inventory” spreadsheet. Create columns for:

• Title
• Size
• Medium
• Price
• Sold/Available

Fill in at least 5 pieces of your work. You’ll be amazed how empowering it feels to have your inventory at your fingertips! ? Get started here: Google Sheets

?️ ​LISTEN
Comparison is one of the most pervasive—and paralyzing—challenges artists face today. In this week’s episode, I’m sharing a deep, honest look at how comparison steals our joy, stunts our creativity, and sidelines our assignment from God.

We’ll root ourselves in Galatians 6:4-5 and unpack four practical, Spirit-led strategies to help you break free from the comparison trap:

• Practice daily gratitude
• Limit your social media consumption
• Celebrate others’ successes
• Stay laser-focused on your God-given assignment
  ​

Plus, I’ll share some of my own struggles and lessons learned from the journey. I pray this episode releases fresh freedom and confidence in your creative life!
​

• Listen Now on iTunes
• Apply to Be A Guest on the Podcast

Featured Artist: Katie Gigliotti

? Website | ? Instagram

For Katie Gigliotti, creativity isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifelong passion that eventually found its perfect expression through storytelling and illustration.

As an elementary art teacher, Katie always loved exploring different mediums. But it wasn’t until 2020 that her true artistic voice emerged. “Illustrating children’s stories allows me to combine my never-ending need to try new mediums with my passion for writing,” she shares. Since then, Katie has illustrated two books with traditional watercolor, one using painted paper collage, and three more digitally using Procreate—each one a unique adventure in creativity.

What Katie loves most about being an artist is the freedom it offers. “It allows me to experiment with different mediums and share my ideas with the world in a new and fun way,” she says. And in that freedom, she’s found a beautiful way to share her faith as well.

Although she describes herself as someone who isn’t very vocal about her relationship with God, Katie felt stirred to find a way to express her faith. That’s when the idea for her first faith-based children’s story was born. “I decided to put my gift to use and create a children’s book, which has allowed me to reach others around the world!”

At vendor events, Katie makes it a point to support other authors and illustrators, using those moments of connection as opportunities to bless others and share her faith story. “Chatting with them and listening to their stories opens the door for me to share my faith and bless them by purchasing their work.”

Her creative process is rooted in prayer and trust. Before starting a new project, Katie always asks for God’s guidance and blessing. “I often question if what I’m working on aligns with God’s plan for my life. Praying beforehand opens new doors and gives me permission to create without worry.”

Her encouragement to other artists?
✨ If you allow God into your art process, beautiful things will happen!
Katie is also embracing a new season of bravery. “I am finally trying to reach out and network, which is a scary thing for me to do. Even though I am fearful, it has provided me with many more opportunities, and I’m excited to continue learning and stepping out in faith!”
​
Through her vibrant illustrations and faith-filled storytelling, Katie Gigliotti is shining a light—one page, one painting, and one child’s heart at a time.

?‍?  Apply to Be a Featured Artist
Would you like to be considered for one of our artist features? Just complete this application: https://forms.gle/vmtyk6wg3hSuUAhi9

? Resources for Christian Artists

• The Created to Thrive Foundations Course
• The Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program
• Matt’s Books for Christian Artists​
• The Thriving Christian Artist Podcast
• Matt Tommey Mentoring Youtube Channel
• Follow us on Instagram & Facebook

Issue #003

One of the greatest challenges artists face—especially those of us who are believers—is the pressure to “have it all together.” We think if we’re struggling, doubting, or not producing at full throttle, then maybe we’ve missed it… maybe God has changed His mind. But let me encourage you today: God doesn’t revoke your calling when you struggle.

He’s not waiting for you to be perfect to use you. He’s already called, chosen, and anointed you for such a time as this.These tactical troubles—marketing confusion, business overwhelm, inconsistent studio time, pricing frustrations, and imposter syndrome—can feel like flashing warning signs telling us we’re failing. But here’s the transformative truth: your struggles don’t indicate failure; they signal growth. You’re learning, developing, and expanding—exactly as you should be.Scripture offers us powerful anchors during these storms. Romans 11:29 reminds us that “God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.” He hasn’t changed His mind about your creative calling just because things got difficult. Galatians 6:9 encourages persistence: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” And Philippians 1:6 assures us that “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”There’s lots of tips in this week’s newsletter to help you navigate these tactical challenges while staying aligned with your divine trajectory. Just remember: You aren’t behind, disqualified, or forgotten. You’re exactly where you need to be—in process, becoming everything God designed you to be.
​– Matt Tommey,
The Thriving Christian Artist

Click the button to subscribe for free to The Weekly and get an email reminder every Wednesday so you never miss an issue. 

? CONNECT
When we face moments of confusion, stagnation, or failure, it’s easy to let our emotions write a false narrative. But the truth is anchored in Romans 11:29: “For God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable.” The same God who called you to create is still calling you today—yes, even in the mess, even in the silence, even when your hands feel empty.

You are not called because you’re perfect. You are called because He is faithful. And that calling is not something you strive to hold on to—it’s something you rest in. In His presence, your identity is reaffirmed, your purpose is rekindled, and your creativity is revived.

Prayer:
Father, thank You that Your call on my life is irrevocable. I don’t have to earn it or fear losing it when I fall short. Help me rest in Your love and return to Your feet today. Remind me that I’m Your beloved, and my art is an extension of our relationship. Reignite my heart with the joy of creating with You. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

Action Step:
Carve out 15 minutes today to simply sit with God—no agenda, no pressure. Ask Him to remind you of who you are and what He’s called you to. Write down what you hear or sense from the Holy Spirit in your journal.
​

?Clarify
Clarity doesn’t just happen—it comes through intentionality. Many artists drift through their days reacting instead of responding to God’s direction. But when you take the time to ask, “Lord, what would You have me focus on today?” you move from chaos to calling.

Whether it’s creating a new body of work, refining your portfolio, or reaching out to galleries, your priorities should flow from the vision God’s already deposited in your heart. That’s why checking in daily to clarify your intentions matters. When your to-do list aligns with His direction, peace and productivity follow.

Scripture:
“Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” – Proverbs 16:3

Action Step:
Before you dive into your tasks today, pause and write down your top 3 goals for the day or week. Then ask: Do these align with what I sense God is doing in my life right now? If not, adjust. Let clarity replace feelings of chaos. ​When you do, celebrate on social media and tag us @thethrivingchristianartist.

? Create

Artistic maturity doesn’t happen by accident—it comes through consistent, intentional practice. When you embrace the daily discipline of creating, even in small doses, you develop not only skill but spiritual and emotional resilience. Creating becomes a spiritual rhythm rather than a performance metric.

Your gift deserves to be stewarded. That means showing up whether you feel inspired or not, trusting that faithfulness in the process unlocks breakthrough in your practice. Think of it like sowing seeds—each moment in the studio is an investment in your growth.

Scripture:
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” – Colossians 3:23

Action Step:
Set a timer for 30 – 60 minutes and engage in a focused creative session today. No multitasking. No pressure for perfection. Just show up, do the work, and offer it to the Lord as worship. When you do, celebrate on social media and tag us @thethrivingchristianartist.

? Cultivate
You weren’t meant to create in a vacuum. Part of stewarding your calling is sharing your work—and your story—with others. Cultivating relationships with fans, followers, collectors, and strategic partners allows your art to bring beauty, healing, and hope to the world while also sustaining your business.

People don’t just buy art—they invest in connection. When you share what’s behind the work, you offer an invitation into something meaningful. That kind of authenticity builds trust, sparks conversation, and opens doors for both income and impact.

Scripture:
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16

Action Step:
Choose one relationship to intentionally nurture this week. Send a personal message to a past buyer or top follower. Share a story behind your current work on social media or email. Invite others to go deeper than the product—into the purpose. When you do, celebrate on social media and tag us @thethrivingchristianartist.

? Tech Tip for Thriving

Platform: Linktree

What It Is: Linktree is a powerful tool that lets you organize and share all your important links from one simple place—perfect for your Instagram bio or email signature.

Why It’s Important: As a visual artist, you likely have multiple places you want to send people—your shop, studio tour, portfolio, mailing list, and more. Linktree creates a central hub that’s easy to access and beautifully branded.

Pro Tip: Use custom button names that match your personality and voice. For example, try “New Art Drop,” “Join My Collector’s Circle,” or “Behind the Scenes Studio Tour.” The more personal and clear your links are, the more engagement they’ll attract.

? Set up your Linktree here 

?️ Listen
Ever wonder if your artistic struggles mean you’ve missed God’s calling? When marketing feels overwhelming, business challenges mount, and self-doubt creeps in, it’s easy to question everything. I’ve walked this path myself—the last two years brought some of my biggest professional challenges as shifting markets and changing landscapes left me wondering if my trajectory had changed.

In this episode, I share openly about my journey through those seasons and how I’ve come to see that God’s calling is not revoked when we struggle—it’s refined. You’ll hear encouragement and real-life insights to help you stay grounded in your identity and calling—even when the way forward isn’t clear.

• Listen Now on iTunes
• Apply to Be A Guest on the Podcast​

Featured Artist: Ain Vares

Painting the Word of God with Purpose and Power
​
? Website | ? Instagram

For artist Ain Vares, art is not just a means of creative expression—it’s a calling. Born and raised in Estonia, Ain once focused on landscapes and portraits. But everything changed after he was born again. That’s when God gave him a new direction: paint My Word.

Today, Ain’s work dives deep into the spiritual themes of sanctification, repentance, victory in Christ, and those “little foxes” that often threaten to spoil the vineyard of our hearts (Song of Solomon 2:15). He primarily works with acrylic and oil but is recently revisiting watercolors—rediscovering joy in their delicate transparency and flow.

As a graduate of the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program, Ain says the experience has shaped not only his creative life but his spiritual walk:
“The mentoring program has been a great blessing and support to me, both in terms of my overall spiritual growth and specifically as a Christian artist. Matt’s teaching is clear and inspiring—even for me as a non-native English speaker.”

Ain sees his art as a ministry—an offering of encouragement to the Body of Christ. “My desire as an artist is to encourage, strengthen, and build up others,” he explains. “Through my paintings, I aim to share what I personally experience and live through in my walk with God.”

And it’s working. One student approached him after a class to share how Ain’s artwork deeply touched his heart and inspired him to continue walking with the Lord. “There are many more stories like this,” Ain reflects. “People who have returned to God or found renewed fellowship and rest through my paintings.”

His advice to fellow creatives? Don’t wait for the perfect time to start.
Ain cites Ecclesiastes 11:4: “He who watches the wind will not sow, and he who looks at the clouds will not reap.” He’s learned firsthand that creative momentum begins with movement. “The perfect moment never arrives—the best way to achieve something is simply to start today.”

He also stays inspired by studying other Christian artists around the world. “Exploring what others are doing helps keep my passion and vision fresh.”
​
Whether through brushstrokes or Bible school teaching, Ain continues to release truth, beauty, and hope—reminding us all that when we surrender our creativity to God, He can use it to transform lives.

​(click images to enlarge)

?‍?  Apply to Be a Featured Artist
Would you like to be considered for one of our artist features? Just complete this application: https://forms.gle/vmtyk6wg3hSuUAhi9

? Resources for Christian Artists

• The Created to Thrive Foundations Course
• The Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program
• Matt’s Books for Christian Artists​
• The Thriving Christian Artist Podcast
• Matt Tommey Mentoring Youtube Channel
• Follow us on Instagram & Facebook

Issue #002

Welcome to The Weekly! Today, we’re diving deep into what it means to embrace your God-given identity as an artist.

​So many creatives wrestle with doubt, insecurity, and wondering if their art really matters—but the truth is, you are God’s masterpiece, created with intentionality and purpose.

​Your creativity is not just a hobby; it’s a divine invitation to partner with Him in revealing beauty and truth to the world.

In this week’s issue, we’ll help you ground your identity in Christ, clarify your focus for the week, and lean into your creative process with fresh vision. We’re also exploring how prophetic creativity can be a powerful expression of the Holy Spirit through this week’s podcast episode, and you’ll meet featured artist Chasity Heck, whose work beautifully reflects a heart fully surrendered to God.
​
Let’s jump in and start this journey strong—rooted in faith, overflowing with creativity, and connected to a community of artists who are growing together. And of course, be sure to share with a friend and leave me a comment below if this issue is meaningful to you!

Cheering you on, 
Matt

PS – if you’re struggling with doubt, insecurity and walking in your calling as an artist, you’re not alone and we can help. The Foundations Course is helping hundreds of artists around the world step into creative confidence and freedom in Christ. Use coupon code “WEEKLY75” for 75% off today as a subscriber to The Weekly.

Click the button to subscribe for free to The Weekly and get an email reminder every Wednesday so you never miss an issue. 

? Connect

​”For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago.” – Ephesians 2:10 (NLT)

Too many artists wander through life unsure if their creativity really matters to God. But the truth is—you are His masterpiece, uniquely crafted with divine purpose, and your art is a reflection of that sacred design. You don’t have to earn your place at the table—you were created for it.

Prayer:
Father, thank You for creating me with purpose and beauty. Help me embrace the truth of who You say I am, even when my feelings or the world try to tell me otherwise. Remind me that my creativity is not an accident—it’s a divine invitation to partner with You in revealing Your glory. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

Action Step:
Write Ephesians 2:10 on a sticky note and place it in your studio. Every time you doubt your worth or wonder if your art matters, read it aloud and thank God for making you His masterpiece. Once you do, celebrate with a post on social media and tag us @thethrivingchristianartist. ​

?Clarify
God’s direction often becomes clear as we quiet the noise and tune in to His voice. Instead of filling your week with random tasks, ask Him what truly matters in this season. Clarifying your focus will help you move forward with purpose and peace.
​
Action Step:
Set aside 15 minutes to pray and review your creative and business goals. Ask the Lord, “What is the most important thing for me to focus on this week in my life, art and business?” Write down your answers and make them your top priority. Post these goals visibly in your workspace as a reminder each day. Once you accomplish them, celebrate with a post on social media and tag us @thethrivingchristianartist. 

? Create

When you create from a place of identity rather than insecurity, your art becomes an overflow of grace. It’s not about proving anything—it’s about expressing the beauty of what’s already true.
​
Action Step:
Create one piece this week that intentionally reflects your identity in Christ. Whether it’s abstract, figurative, or symbolic, let the process be an act of worship.
After your session, take a photo of what you created

, post it on social media and tag us @thethrivingchristianartist. 

? Cultivate
People connect most deeply when you share from a place of authenticity. I’ve always said “Nobody buys art because they need it, they buy because of connection.” As you embrace your identity in Christ as an artist, let that confidence shape how you show up online and in person. Your story, your voice, and your journey are powerful bridges to real connection with your followers, clients and partners.

Action Step:
This week, share a short post, story, or video with your audience about what it means to be God’s masterpiece. Invite them to reflect on their own creative identity and start a conversation in the comments. This simple, genuine engagement builds connection and community around your art. And be sure to tag us @thethrivingchristianartist. 

? Tech Tip for Thriving AI Technology can be a great assistant for those artists who need help in crafting things like artist statements, bios and the like, saving you hours of time, energy and frustration. 

Action Step:
Ask ChatGPT “Can you help me write a short artist bio for me for a Christian art audience? What other information do you need from me?” Paste what you have and let it help refine a new artist bio for yourself. 

?️ Listen
​
This week on The Thriving Christian Artist Podcast, Matt unpacks prophetic creativity, sharing revelatory insights from his 30+ years as both a professional artist and worship leader plus a transformative understanding of creativity as “seeing and agreeing”—perceiving what God is doing through the Holy Spirit and aligning our hearts with that movement. This process becomes the channel through which heaven literally enters earth, whether through music, visual art, business, or any creative expression. When we grasp this principle, mountains move and lives transform. Ready to transform your understanding of creativity and experience the supernatural through your artistic expression? 

• Listen Now on iTunes
• Apply to Be A Guest on the Podcast

Featured Artist: Chasity Heck

? Website | Facebook
​
In kindergarten, Chasity Heck boldly declared, “When I grow up, I want to be an Artist.” She may not have known it then, but that little dream—scribbled on a slip of paper—would one day rise from its childhood hiding place and lead her into a beautiful life of creative expression and healing.

For years, the dream lay dormant, buried under the demands of everyday life. But like so many God-given callings, it never left her. “That sweet dream got tucked away under the ‘practicalities’ of life,” she shares, “but was thankfully liberated and rekindled in recent years.”

Now, Chasity is embracing that dream fully—and joyfully. Her work, rooted in playfulness and color, is a celebration of imagination and inner freedom. Using acrylic paint as her foundation, she adds unexpected touches: game pieces, alphabet letters, crayon and pencil marks—letting her inner child guide the brush. “When I step into my studio, I shut the door on my inner critic and invite my inner child to come out to play.”

That playful approach has become a source of deep joy and peace. “I love being an artist because it’s one of the few places where I am not haunted by doubt, overthinking, or sorrow. I get in a beautiful flow where my mind is free and filled with joy.”

But for Chasity, art isn’t just about fun—it’s also been a lifeline. After the devastating loss of her sister to cancer, Chasity found herself engulfed in grief. “I didn’t know how to climb out of that wretched hole,” she says. Then came an unexpected gift: an art course from Jeanne Oliver. “My life began to change. I could see healing happening. It truly amazed me. I am forever grateful to Jeanne for her generosity and to God for opening that door for me.”

Her creative process is deeply intuitive. “When I begin a piece, I never really know how it’s going to end up. I just let the ideas come to me through an open heart and mind.” Her prayer is that the peace she feels while creating will reach those who experience her art—bringing joy, healing, and light.

When asked what habits help her thrive, Chasity keeps it both spiritual and practical:

• Pray before you begin.
• Create a special space to make your art—even a small corner filled with things that bring you joy.
• Honor your creativity with intentional time. “Make creating a priority. If it is dear to you, honor that feeling with intentionality. Don’t let it be an afterthought, or it probably won’t happen.”

​Chasity is currently focusing on growing the business side of her art journey, but her heart remains centered on the joy of creating and the healing it brings. And through her story, she’s inspiring others to reclaim their dreams, trust the process, and make space for creativity and joy.

?‍?  Apply to Be a Featured Artist
Would you like to be considered for one of our artist features? Just complete this application: https://forms.gle/vmtyk6wg3hSuUAhi9

? Resources for Christian Artists

• The Created to Thrive Foundations Course
• The Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program
• Matt’s Books for Christian Artists​
• The Thriving Christian Artist Podcast
• Matt Tommey Mentoring Youtube Channel
• Follow us on Instagram & Facebook

Issue #001

Welcome to Your New Weekly Rhythm!
​
Dear Friend,Welcome to the very first edition of The Thriving Christian Artist Weekly! I’ve been mentoring and encouraging artists now for over 15 years and there’s one thing I know: consistency is the number one way to see lasting success in your life. But let’s be honest, that’s not always easy. That’s why I’ve created this weekly blog.

Each week, I’ll share ONE clear, manageable action step in each area of our Core4

™ Focus Framework – plus a few other inspiring and helpful things – to help you thrive spiritually, creatively, and practically—without feeling overwhelmed. And the best part? It’s absolutely free. Just make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss a week.
​Each week, you can expect valuable content in each of the following areas:

1. Connect: Devotions, prayer and encouragement for your spiritual journey with the Lord as an artist.
2. Clarify: Tools to help you clarify what you’re doing each week in order to get the results you’re looking for.
3. Create: Tips on how to enhance and grow your creative practice as an artist.
4. Cultivate: Strategies for how to cultivate relationships with other artists, fans, clients and partners to help you make an impact with your art.
5. Featured Artist: Stories of artists who are thriving in their creative callings with examples of their work and links to discover more.
6. Resources: Practical resources you can take advantage of to grow in your creative calling as an artist in God’s Kingdom.
7. And more: there will always be extras along the way, so be sure not to miss an issue!

So click the button below to subscribe real quick, and then enjoy this week’s post.​

? Connect

​“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” – Mark 11:24

Jesus teaches us something powerful here: genuine faith prays from the assurance that God has already heard and answered. As artists, we often wrestle with doubts about our abilities, direction, and purpose. But imagine approaching your creative journey with confident faith, fully trusting that God has already provided everything you need to thrive artistically and spiritually.

This week, let’s step into a deeper level of faith. Rather than pleading or hoping, let’s intentionally shift to gratitude and confident expectation in our prayers. Embrace the certainty that God has already prepared good things for you and your creative practice.

This Week’s Action:
Set aside 5-10 minutes daily to pray with thankfulness, clearly envisioning the growth, clarity, creativity, and provision you desire as an artist. Pray as if these things have already been given to you, because they are already yours in Christ.
​
Prayer:
Father, thank you that you have already provided everything I need to thrive as an artist. I trust fully in your provision and goodness. Today, I choose to walk by faith, confidently receiving clarity, creativity, opportunities, and abundant provision you’ve already prepared for me. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

?ClarifyYour intentions shape your artistic journey. A clear intention guides your actions and decisions, keeping you aligned with your deeper purpose.
​

This Week’s Action:
Write down ONE clear intention for your creative practice this week. For example: “This week, I intend to create from a place of joy, without pressure or comparison.” Post this intention visibly in your workspace as a reminder each day. Once you accomplish it, celebrate with a post on social media and tag us @thethrivingchristianartist. 

? Create

Consistency in your creative practice transforms your artistry. Regular creative habits build confidence, clarity, and skill over time.
​

This Week’s Action:
Commit to ONE uninterrupted 60-minute creative session this week. Schedule it in your calendar immediately. Show up for this session no matter what, and allow yourself to create freely without judgment or expectation. Protect this time fiercely—it’s a promise you’re making to yourself and your creativity. After your session, take a photo of what you created

, post it on social media and tag us @thethrivingchristianartist. 

? CultivateConnecting authentically with your audience is key to growing visibility and interest in your art. This week, we’ll take one simple step to foster meaningful connection.
​

This Week’s Action:
Post ONE piece of your artwork on social media, and tell a brief story about what inspired it. Include a clear and friendly invitation for your audience to engage, such as, “I’d love to hear what this piece makes you feel! Comment below or DM me to share your thoughts.” This simple, genuine engagement builds connection and community around your art. And be sure to tag us @thethrivingchristianartist. 

?️ Listen
​
This week on The Thriving Christian Artist Podcast, Matt tackles a powerful struggle many creatives face: the fear-filled pendulum swing between doubting God’s provision and fearing success might distance them from Him. Sparked by a heartfelt question from a Foundations Course participant, Matt exposes how the enemy uses this cycle to keep artists stuck in scarcity and anxiety. He offers hope through the truth of grace-filled relationship with the Father—not fear-based religion—reminding us that we’re called to walk in abundance, authority, and purpose as redeemed sons and daughters. This episode will shift your mindset, anchor your heart in truth, and free your creativity to thrive.

• Listen Now on iTunes
• Apply to Be A Guest on the Podcast

Featured Artist: Casey Parrott

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When you encounter Casey Parrott’s artwork—moody oil paintings of wide Texas landscapes and intimate family scenes—you can sense something deeper unfolding on the canvas. Light shimmers in quiet corners, emotion rests in brushstrokes, and the presence of God somehow fills even the most ordinary places. But this clarity didn’t come overnight.

Casey credits much of his artistic and spiritual growth to his time in the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program and the deeper transformation he experienced through the Mastery Program.

“I wouldn’t be where I am in my journey without the Mentoring podcast, Matt and Tanya, and the CTT community,” Casey shares. “Now, I not only have more confidence in my calling and design, but I have a clearer vision. I’m exceedingly better equipped to live as a thriving professional artist than ever before.”

More than technique or strategy, Casey says his greatest shift has been recognizing his divine partnership.

“I better understand my partnership with the God of creation for the advancing of Jesus’s Kingdom.”

Casey’s artistic focus is both simple and profound: he paints Texas landscapes with a moody, evocative edge, often placing his own family within the frame. He finds joy in merging observation, imagination, and recreation—capturing moments where light, particularly His light, transforms the mundane into something sacred.

One turning point came just as the world shut down during the pandemic. In a moment of reflection and creative exploration, Casey painted two imagined scenes that reconnected him to his early college work—only now, they carried more skill, more poetry, and a deeper spiritual resonance.

“My wife had a strong emotional response to those pieces and suggested they were a new benchmark for me. After time in prayer and meditation, I knew she was right.”

That breakthrough changed everything. His work since has touched hearts, opened spiritual conversations, and created space for others to experience God’s peace and presence through art.

“I’ve heard stories of people encountering wonder, hope, and healing through my paintings. To see the Holy Spirit move through my work is humbling and beautiful.”

Casey’s creative process is both thoughtful and strategic. He develops powerful sketches into reference images and works in batches, often progressing multiple paintings at once. This method has not only improved his workflow but has deepened his sense of creative freedom and clarity.

“Batching my work has become a powerful rhythm in my studio. It allows me to solve problems, stay productive, and tap into greater creative potency.”

His encouragement to fellow Christian artists is just as practical:
“Work from observation and imagination. Use both to refine your studio practice and hone your artistic voice. And most importantly, surround yourself with other devout Christians who are serious about their art. Their feedback and encouragement will grow your faith and your craft.”

Through every brushstroke, Casey Parrott is not just painting landscapes—he’s revealing the Light that transforms all things.

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? Resources for Christian Artists

• The Created to Thrive Foundations Course
• The Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program
• Matt’s Books for Christian Artists​
• The Thriving Christian Artist Podcast
• Matt Tommey Mentoring Youtube Channel
• Follow us on Instagram & Facebook

Beginning in April 2025, we’re starting a blog and email newsletter for Christian artists called The Thriving Christian Artist Weekly! I’ve been mentoring and encouraging artists now for over 15 years and there’s one thing I know: consistency is the number one way to see lasting success in your life. But let’s be honest, that’s not always easy. That’s why I’ve created this weekly new resource.

Each week, I’ll share ONE clear, manageable action step in each area of our Core4

™ Focus Framework – plus a few other inspiring and helpful things – to help you thrive spiritually, creatively, and practically—without feeling overwhelmed. And the best part? It’s absolutely free. Just make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss a week.
​Each week, you can expect valuable content in each of the following areas:

1. Connect: Devotions, prayer and encouragement for your spiritual journey with the Lord as an artist.
2. Clarify: Tools to help you clarify what you’re doing each week in order to get the results you’re looking for.
3. Create: Tips on how to enhance and grow your creative practice as an artist.
4. Cultivate: Strategies for how to cultivate relationships with other artists, fans, clients and partners to help you make an impact with your art.
5. Featured Artist: Stories of artists who are thriving in their creative callings with examples of their work and links to discover more.
6. Resources: Practical resources you can take advantage of to grow in your creative calling as an artist in God’s Kingdom.
7. And more: there will always be extras along the way, so be sure not to miss an issue!

So click the button below to subscribe real quick, and then enjoy this week’s post.​