Have you ever felt caught in an exhausting tug-of-war between worrying about not having enough and fearing that success might make you prideful? If so, you’re far from alone. I’ve seen this struggle time and again among Christian artists and creatives—including myself.
Just recently, a participant in our Foundations course opened up about this very tension. She worried God might not provide abundantly and simultaneously feared that abundance might damage her relationship with Him. Her honesty struck a chord with me because I’ve been there too.
The Fear Pendulum
Here’s what I’ve discovered: these fears don’t reflect God’s heart for us. They’re distortions shaped by fear-based religious thinking rather than a grace-filled relationship with a loving Father. Remember what Paul wrote to Timothy? “God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” Jesus came that we might have life—abundant life!
The enemy loves to push us toward extremes. One day he whispers that seeking financial blessing is greedy, and the next day, when we experience God’s favor, he fills us with guilt and shame, suggesting we’re becoming prideful. This confusing back-and-forth keeps us from confidently walking in our calling.
But Jesus reminds us: “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” Think about that! God delights in lavishing His goodness on us—not because we’ve earned it, but simply because we’re His beloved children.
Grace Changes Everything
Kingdom life revolves around grace—God’s unearned favor. When we truly grasp grace, pride loses its power. Our blessings become constant reminders of God’s goodness rather than personal achievements to boast about.
I’ve learned that stewardship—thoughtfully managing what God graciously gives—keeps us grounded. It directs our gratitude back to God rather than to the gifts themselves.
Rooted in Identity
Your identity as God’s child changes everything. When you’re anchored in who you truly are—a beloved son or daughter—fear begins to fade. Children naturally trust in their father’s faithful care.
Romans 8 declares we’re not just children of God but co-heirs with Christ! Our inheritance isn’t secured by perfect performance but by relationship. When this truth sinks in, both the fear of scarcity and the fear of pride begin to dissolve.
Will challenges still come? Absolutely. But your posture shifts from fear to trust and bold confidence.
Gentle Heart Checks
Yes, we need periodic heart checks to assess our motivations and align with God’s heart. But these aren’t fearful self-examinations—they’re loving invitations from the Holy Spirit.
Fear-based religion uses guilt to control, but God’s Spirit lovingly reminds us of our identity. When He prompts us to check if we’re more attached to His blessings than to Him, it’s not accusation—it’s an invitation to deeper intimacy.
Living Boldly in Grace
I love what William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army, once said: “I’m not waiting on a move of God—I am a move of God.” That captures the boldness God desires for us. You uniquely manifest God’s grace and glory in ways no one else can.
Renewing your mind to God’s grace transforms your entire perspective. As Paul urged, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by renewing your mind.” This renewal frees you from the cycle of fear and guilt.
No More Apologies
Living in grace means embracing God’s blessings without guilt or apology. Your gifts, talents, and successes aren’t reasons for shame—they reflect His generosity. Your life and art become living testimonies to His incredible grace.
I’ve watched artists in our Foundations course break free from fear-based thinking. The shift is dramatic when grace, rather than guilt, shapes their relationship with God and their creative calling.
Your Invitation
Remember this: Grace, not guilt, governs God’s generous gifts to you. You have permission to fully embrace the Kingdom life—filled with purpose, abundance, joy, and peace. You’re invited to actively participate as a beloved child and co-creator with Christ.
Embrace His grace today. Step confidently into the abundant life He’s prepared for you. That, my friend, is truly living according to God’s plan.
TAGS: Christian artist, overcoming fear, God’s grace, kingdom living, abundant life, faith-based art, renewing your mind, creative calling, biblical stewardship, identity in Christ, thriving Christian artist, foundations course, spiritual growth, fear-based religion, grace-filled relationship
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