The Power of Incremental Change for Artists

As I was watching the 2024 Presidential election returns last night here in the US, I was struck by how small, steady steps in seemingly insignificant areas can lead to monumental outcomes... especially for artists. 

Trump’s historic victory in the election wasn’t a result of winning one huge, decisive battle in major metropolitan areas or making sweeping gains with any one group. Instead, it seems it came through small but intentional increases in support across a vast number of counties and diverse communities across the country. By focusing on incremental progress and connecting with unlikely people in unexpected places, he steadily built up enough support to tip the scales in his favor. Like him or not (this is not about politics), this has some great implications for us as artists and small business owners.

Our lives as artists—our creative journeys, business growth, and spiritual walk—are transformed not by one huge leap, but through countless small, consistent steps that move us forward. Just as those small gains across many regions led to a significant outcome, our own steady, faithful actions build up over time, helping us achieve the dreams God has placed on our hearts. 

With every small change we make in our daily routines, every brushstroke, every connection, we’re inching closer to the big, impactful life He’s calling us to lead. It may not be the big, shiny, monumental win we want, but these steps add up to big results.

As artists, we often dream big. We envision breathtaking pieces of art, thriving businesses, and lives that reflect the beauty and creativity we hold inside. But when we look at the distance between where we are and where we want to be, it can feel overwhelming. The truth is, transformation isn’t about giant leaps; it’s about the faithful, steady steps we take each day. God invites us into a journey of incremental change, where each small step, guided by faith, builds into something much greater than we could accomplish alone.

In Zechariah 4:10, we’re reminded, “Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin.” God sees the value in our small steps, and He is pleased by our daily, faithful acts. These little steps, the ones that seem so minor in the moment, are actually setting the foundation for the big dreams He’s placed in our hearts. Every brushstroke, every business decision, every moment we dedicate to our craft, each of these is a stone laid in building something of eternal value.

When we focus on small, intentional steps, here’s what happens:
1️⃣ We Grow Consistently: When we make the choice to work on our art, our skills, or our business just a little each day, we’re sowing seeds that will yield a harvest in time. This might mean setting aside 30 minutes to create, learn about marketing, reach out to a new contact, or pray for God’s guidance. Over weeks, months, and years, these small actions accumulate and become a part of who we are.

2️⃣ We Build Resilience: Incremental change helps us build resilience, both spiritually and practically. Life is full of ups and downs, but when we approach growth one step at a time, we are less likely to get overwhelmed and give up. When we trust God for just the strength needed today, we begin to see His faithfulness day by day. These small steps teach us patience and deepen our reliance on Him.

3️⃣ We See God’s Provision: God often uses small, faithful actions as a means to provide for our needs. Financial growth in our art businesses, for example, might not come from one big sale but from consistent, steady improvement in how we connect with our audience, refine our pricing, build multiple streams of income or learn how to market ourselves effectively. By doing what we can with what we have, we position ourselves to experience God’s blessing over time.

4️⃣ We Honor Our Gifts: Each small step is a way to honor the gifts God has given us. Every decision to work on our skills, invest in our business, or stretch ourselves creatively is an act of stewardship. Just as the servant who received five talents in Matthew 25 was faithful with what he was given, we, too, honor God by being faithful in the “small things” of our creative life.

5️⃣ We Work on What’s Working: One of the most powerful ways we can make forward progress is by focusing on what’s already bearing fruit. It’s easy to get discouraged by the areas of our lives or our businesses that feel slow or unresponsive, but God often calls us to build on what’s working. Just as a gardener prunes to direct growth toward the healthiest branches, we can invest our time, energy, and creativity in the areas that are already showing promise. Maybe that means creating more of a certain type of art that resonates deeply with people or doubling down on marketing efforts that are connecting with your audience. When we focus on the areas where God is already blessing us, we experience His provision and see growth multiply in ways that feel sustainable and joyful.

6️⃣ We Boldly Take Chances: While working on what’s already thriving is important, so is stepping out in faith to pursue dreams that aren’t yet realized. Sometimes, God stirs in our hearts visions for new things—things we haven’t tried before, areas where we haven’t yet found success, but where we feel a deep calling. These moments invite us to trust that God’s plan for us is bigger than our current abilities or circumstances. Whether it’s exploring a new art medium, reaching a different audience, or launching a new project, these bold steps allow us to live by faith and not by sight. When we dare to believe that God has equipped us for new challenges, we’re saying “yes” to the unknown, confident that He will guide us each step of the way.
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So, let’s embrace the small, faithful steps. Let’s pray for guidance, put our hands to work, and trust that as we do, God is weaving together each moment into something far beyond what we can see today. Your small steps matter; they are seen, celebrated, and used by God for His glory. Keep going, one faithful step at a time.
✨ Are there small steps you can take today to honor your calling as an artist? Let’s encourage each other in the comments! What’s your next step? 🌿