Issue #005
If you’ve ever finished a piece of art and immediately thought, “Maybe I should just keep this to myself,” you’re not alone. Every artist at some point wrestles with the fear of sharing their work.
Whether it’s fear of rejection, fear of not being good enough, or fear of simply being seen, the enemy loves to use fear to keep your light hidden. But the beautiful truth is this: fear doesn’t have the final say—God does.
This week, we’re diving into the powerful freedom found in 2 Timothy 1:7 and learning how to break free from the fear that tries to paralyze us. You’ll also discover a simple tech tip to help you build real connections at your next art show, and I’ve got a new podcast episode that will encourage and equip you to step out in boldness. Let’s lean into the truth together and keep moving forward in faith!
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
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? CONNECT
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” — 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV)
The fear you feel about sharing your art? It’s not from God. Fear tries to convince you that hiding is safer than shining, but the Spirit within you is filled with dunamis power—explosive, life-giving, mountain-moving power. God has equipped you with exactly what you need to boldly release your creativity into the world.
Prayer:
Father, thank You for filling me with Your power, love, and a sound mind. I reject the spirit of fear, and I choose to step out boldly in the gifts You’ve placed inside me. Help me share my creativity with the world as an offering to You. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
Action Step:
This week, whenever fear tries to whisper “you’re not ready,” declare aloud: “God has given me power, love, and a sound mind. I will not hide my light!”
?CLARIFY
Fear loves to masquerade as wisdom, convincing us that now is never the right time. But waiting for perfect conditions will only delay the beautiful impact your art is meant to have. Wisdom rooted in fear is not wisdom at all—it’s hesitation dressed up as prudence.
Reflection:
Where have you delayed sharing your work because of fear disguised as “wisdom”? What small, courageous step could you take this week to move forward?
Action Step:
Choose one piece of artwork you’ve been hesitant to share and post it online, include it in your portfolio, or show it to a trusted friend. Let faith lead the way, not fear.
? CREATE
Fear thrives in the darkness of perfectionism and self-doubt. But creativity flourishes in the light of faith and action. Remember, you’re not creating to impress—you’re creating as an act of worship, trusting God with the results.
The art you release is not just a product; it’s a carrier of God’s grace into the lives of others. Each brushstroke, note, or design is an act of faith.
Action Step:
Dedicate your next creative session to God before you begin. Simply pray, “Lord, use this session to glorify You and bless others,” and then create without self-judgment.
? CULTIVATE
When you show up authentically and vulnerably through your art, you invite others into deeper relationship—not just with you, but with the Creator who inspires you. Fear isolates, but courage cultivates connection.
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16
Marketing Tip:
Collecting contacts and building relationships is crucial for growing your audience! Don’t just sell art—build community around your creative calling.
Outreach Suggestion:
At your next show, invite people to join your email list by creating a simple form where they can stay connected to you and your art.
? TECH TIP FOR THRIVING
If you’re not capturing emails at your art events, you’re missing huge opportunities to nurture relationships and grow your creative business! Thankfully, Google Forms makes it incredibly easy to get started.
Tactic:
Create a simple form that asks for:
- Name
- Email Address
- Favorite Type of Art
Print a QR code linking to your form and display it at your table or booth for easy sign-ups!
? Create your first form here: Google Forms
?️ LISTEN
Podcast Episode Title: Breaking the Fear of Sharing Your Art
That paralyzing fear of sharing your artwork? It’s more common—and more dangerous—than you think. In this powerful episode, we dig deep into the real spiritual battle behind artistic fear and reveal why “waiting for the right time” often masks deeper insecurity.
Rooted in the powerful truth of 2 Timothy 1:7, we explore how God has already equipped you with power, love, and a sound mind to step out boldly. You’ll learn practical strategies to overcome fear:
- Declare truth over your mind
- Share your work even when it’s imperfect
- Break free from perfectionism
- Offer your creativity as an act of worship
It’s time to stop hiding and start shining!
? Listen now on your favorite podcast app or catch all episodes here »
▶️ WATCH
If you need a song to anchor this week’s message deeper in your heart, take a few minutes to soak in “No Longer Slaves” by Jonathan and Melissa Helser. This powerful anthem reminds us that we are no longer bound by fear—we are children of God, called, empowered, and free. As you listen, let the truth wash over you: you don’t have to hide. You were made to shine.
?? FEATURED ARTIST: Lance Meyer
Painting with Purpose, Sharing God’s Grace
? Website | ? Instagram
For Lance Meyer, art isn’t just about creating beautiful pieces—it’s a vibrant expression of God’s grace and a ministry that touches hearts.
Lance primarily works with watercolors, creating Portraits with Pizzazz and Lively Landscapes that brighten spaces and point people back to the beauty of the Creator.
Through his work at Green Room Art Studio Ministries, he’s built a thriving practice around art shows, commissions, Paint with Coach events, and partnerships with churches, schools, and ministries.
A lifelong learner and committed encourager, Lance is a proud lifetime member of the Created to Thrive Mentoring Program and now part of the Mastery Program. Reflecting on his journey, he shares:
“CTT has changed my life spiritually, professionally, and personally. It’s not about quick hacks—it’s about walking the real journey with real solutions, grounded in God’s Word.”
Living with Hashimoto’s Encephalopathy presents unique challenges, but Lance thrives when he can manage his schedule with freedom, structure, and faith. His art—and his life—flow from intentional spiritual practices. A firm believer in the power of morning routines he learned inside Created to Thrive, Lance’s days begin with prayer, Scripture, exercise, and learning, building a strong foundation for both creativity and ministry.
One habit that fuels his creativity is this simple but profound mindset:
? “Every piece is part of God’s greater Masterpiece.”
Recently, Lance’s influence has expanded even further. At a homeschool convention with over 4,500 attendees, he shared his vision for online art courses combined with live Zoom mentoring. He also led a Sunday School workshop, guiding students in creating colorful crosses and displaying his own artwork in a gallery walk—all as an offering to glorify God.
Through daily practices like his personal reflections via email, regular art events, and now the exciting launch of e-courses, Lance continues to use his gifts to uplift, encourage, and remind others of the grace available in Christ.
?? Apply to Be a Featured Artist
Would you like to be considered for one of our artist features? We love sharing the work from our friends around the world who create unique, beautiful and inspired art, regardless of creative medium. And just a reminder, your work does NOT have to be overtly faith-based to be considered. Interested? Just complete this application: https://forms.gle/vmtyk6wg3hSuUAhi9
? Resources for Christian Artists
If you’re ready to grow as an artist in your faith, art and even business, then check out these affordable resources for artists just like you.
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