• Your Supernatural Calling as an Artist

    Your Supernatural Calling as an Artist

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    ISSUE #029

    Did you know God has an incredible purpose for your art that goes far beyond decoration or hobby? He designed your creativity to be a doorway where Heaven meets Earth. When you create, you’re not just expressing yourself — you’re partnering with the Holy Spirit to release transformation, reveal His heart, and awaken others to His love. That means your art, your hands, your imagination — all of it — is sacred ground where God longs to move.

    You were created to bear His image, to be a reflection of His nature in the world. That’s what makes your creativity supernatural. The very act of making becomes worship, intercession, and revelation. So this week, I want to help you rediscover that divine partnership — the joy of creating with God, not for Him, and stepping boldly into the calling He’s placed inside you.

    May this week be filled with intentional reflection, creative breakthroughs, and meaningful connection with the Creator who put that beautiful imagination inside you.

    In His love and creativity,
    Matt Tommey

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    Airbrushed Faith: The Art of Trusting God’s Timing

    This week, meet Steve Nunez, a full-time artist whose vibrant airbrushed paintings celebrate the beauty of God’s creation—and the faith it takes to wait for His provision. Through prayer, patience, and perseverance, Steve continues to create art that reflects both nature’s wonder and the quiet confidence of an artist trusting in divine timing. Read More…

    CONNECT

    Scripture: “Then God said, ‘Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness.’” — Genesis 1:26 (NKJV)

    God’s first introduction to humanity wasn’t as a judge or ruler — it was as an Artist. He created, imagined, shaped, and spoke beauty into being. And then He made us in His image, giving us the same creative DNA. That means creativity isn’t optional — it’s who you are. You are God’s masterpiece, His poema (Ephesians 2:10), created to reveal His beauty and goodness in the world through the work of your hands.

    Prayer:
    Father, thank You for creating me in Your image — full of imagination, beauty, and divine purpose. I invite You into my creative process this week. Let every brushstroke, every song, every word become a space where Heaven touches Earth. Use my art to reveal Your heart. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Action Step:
    Before you begin creating this week, pause for five minutes of stillness. Ask, “Holy Spirit, what are You creating through me today?” Write down what you sense — then create from that place of partnership.

    CLARIFY

    Your supernatural calling doesn’t begin with what you make — it begins with who you are. You are an image-bearer of the Creator. When you understand that, your goals, your business plans, even your daily studio routine shift from striving to stewardship. You’re not trying to make something happen for God; you’re cooperating with what He’s already doing.

    This week, ask yourself: Am I trying to perform for God, or am I creating with Him? Let His Spirit lead both your inspiration and your direction. The more you align your art with His presence, the more clarity and confidence you’ll walk in.

    Action Step:
    Review your goals for this month. Which ones feel heavy or forced? Surrender those to God and rewrite them as partnership goals — statements that start with, “God and I are creating…” Need help? Get your Core4 Focus Planner today.

    CREATE

    Scripture: “The Spirit of God has made me, and the breath of the Almighty gives me life.” — Job 33:4 (NKJV)

    Your creative process is a sacred conversation. Each time you create, the breath of the Almighty flows through you. Just as God spoke light into darkness, He now speaks through your imagination to bring beauty, truth, and revelation to life. You’re not alone in your studio — Heaven is hovering, waiting for your “yes.”

    This week, create with expectancy. Believe that God will meet you in the process — not only to inspire what you make, but to use it as a vessel of His love in someone’s life.

    Studio Action Step:
    Set aside one creative session this week to “co-create.” Begin by praying, “Holy Spirit, what’s on Your heart today?” Then simply follow His lead without overanalyzing. Let intuition and worship guide your movements.

    CULTIVATE

    As artists in the Kingdom, our calling isn’t just to create—it’s to reveal the nature of God through what we share. That means your art carries prophetic power to speak, comfort, and awaken hearts. Don’t hide that light! Every time you share your art online, display your work publicly, or tell the story behind a piece, you’re extending Heaven’s invitation to those who encounter it.

    Think of your audience not as customers, but as people God has hand-picked to receive what’s inside you. Your art is a bridge for divine connection.

    Action Step:
    This week, post one piece of art online with a short story or Scripture that reveals its meaning. Invite your followers to share how it speaks to them. Watch how God uses that simple act to open conversations of faith.

    WATCH & LISTEN

    “Your Supernatural Calling as an Artist”
    Listen Now »

    In this week’s episode, I unpack how God designed your creativity as a prophetic tool — a sacred doorway where Heaven meets Earth. You’ll learn five key truths about your supernatural calling:

    1. Creativity is God’s nature.
    2. All creativity comes from Him.
    3. God can use any artist — but invites you to partner with Him.
    4. Your art carries prophetic purpose.
    5. You are called to co-create with God.

    Key Takeaway:
    You’re not creating for God’s approval — you’re creating from His presence. When you realize that, art becomes worship, rest replaces striving, and your studio becomes a sanctuary of transformation.

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Tool: UncleMatt.ai

    Ever wish you could ask me questions 24/7 about your art, faith, or business journey? Now you can — through UncleMatt.ai. This powerful AI mentor was built from my 15+ years of teaching and mentoring artists. It’s like having me in your pocket — helping you pray through creative blocks, write artist statements, plan social content, or clarify your next steps in business and purpose.

    This Week’s Tip: Ask UncleMatt: “How can I partner with the Holy Spirit more intentionally in my creative process?” You’ll be amazed at the biblical, practical, and encouraging wisdom it gives back.

    👉 Try it now: matttommeymentoring.com/unclematt

    WORSHIP

    This week’s worship song echoes the heartbeat of your supernatural calling: “We’re ready for You to move.” Let it remind you that the same Spirit who hovered over creation still hovers over your canvas, your kiln, your words, and your imagination today.

    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.

  • Why Your Art Matters More Than You Think

    Why Your Art Matters More Than You Think

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    ISSUE #014

    Have you ever wondered if your art really matters? If it’s just a hobby, something fun to do on the side—or if it actually has eternal significance?

    This week, I want to remind you that your art isn’t just a personal pastime; it’s a divine invitation. God planted creativity deep inside you as a reflection of His own heart, and when you create, you’re partnering with Him to release beauty, hope, and transformation into the world.

    In my new YouTube video, “Why Your Art Matters More Than You Think,” I explore this truth in depth. I believe it’s going to awaken something inside you and help you see your art through God’s eyes—full of purpose, power, and potential. May this week be filled with intentional reflection, creative breakthroughs, and meaningful connection with the Creator who put that beautiful imagination inside you.

    I’m cheering you on always!
    Matt Tommey

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

    CONNECT

    Scripture: Genesis 1:27 (NLT) — “So God created human beings in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”

    Devotional Thought:
    You were created in the image of a Creator. That’s not a coincidence; it’s a calling. Your creativity is a mirror reflecting His beauty and goodness to a world desperate for authentic hope. Whether you paint, sculpt, weave, or write—each brushstroke or word is an invitation for someone to encounter the heart of God.

    Prayer:
    Lord, thank You for making me in Your image and entrusting me with creative gifts. Help me to see my art as a holy calling and to use it to bring Your love and light into the world. Give me courage to share it boldly and faithfully. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Action Step:
    Take 10 minutes today to journal about how your art reflects God’s image and ask Him to reveal fresh ways to use it to bless others.

    CLARIFY

    This week, let’s get super clear: Your art is not an afterthought—it’s an assignment. If God has given you this gift, it deserves your time, focus, and energy. Think of your creative practice as a ministry to both your own soul and to others who will experience it.

    Reflect on what it would look like to honor your art as a divine calling. What small changes could you make this week to treat it with the importance it deserves? Maybe it’s scheduling studio time, investing in new materials, or simply sharing a piece online.

    Action Step:
    Write down one concrete way you’ll prioritize your art this week—and put it on your calendar today.

    CREATE

    When we step into the studio, we’re not just making “things.” We’re participating in God’s ongoing act of creation. Every moment you spend creating is an opportunity to cultivate intimacy with Him and let His Spirit flow through you.

    Colossians 3:23 reminds us, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” When you create, do it wholeheartedly, knowing you’re offering it as worship.

    Action Step:
    Set aside a focused block of time this week (even just an hour!) to create purely for the joy of it, inviting God into every brushstroke, stitch, or note.

    CULTIVATE

    Your audience isn’t just potential customers—they’re people who long to encounter hope and beauty. When you share your art, you’re opening a door for God to move in unexpected ways.

    Think about how you can invite people into your creative story this week. Maybe it’s a behind-the-scenes video, a personal post about what inspired your latest piece, or an in-person conversation at your church or local art fair.

    Action Step:
    Choose one piece of art and write a short story about its meaning or process. Share it on social media and invite your audience to respond.

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    🎯 Pinterest: Your Visual Testimony Board
    Pinterest isn’t just a platform for recipes and home décor—it’s a powerful tool for artists! Create boards that share your creative journey, finished pieces, and process shots. Each pin becomes an opportunity for someone to discover your work and connect with the message behind it.

    Check out Pinterest for artists: https://business.pinterest.com

    INSPIRE

    At Waunakee High School in Wisconsin, many students thought 18-year-old Molly Schafer was a loner. But instead of withdrawing completely, Molly chose a surprising way to reconnect: she painted 44 stunning portraits of her classmates — spending over 600 hours in her garage loft to bring them to life.

    Her courageous gesture left her peers deeply moved and reflecting on the power of connection. Molly’s story reminds us that art can be a bridge to healing and unexpected friendship — if we’re willing to take the first step.

    Read the Full Story or watch below

    LISTEN

    Podcast Episode: Authentically Connecting on Social Media

    Gone are the days of just posting pretty pictures and waiting for sales. In 2025, it’s all about building authentic, heart-level connection. This week on the podcast, I’m sharing exactly what turns casual followers into passionate collectors — and spoiler alert: it’s not about algorithm hacks or perfect photos.

    We’ll unpack how to tell your story in a way that invites people into your world, use each social platform strategically (yes, even TikTok!), and make real invitations instead of surface-level announcements. Whether you’re on Facebook, Instagram, or anywhere else, this episode gives you practical steps to build a true community that loves your art and wants to support your journey.

    Key takeaway: When you lead with authenticity and connection, you don’t just gain followers — you build a family of collectors who believe in you.

    Listen Now

    WATCH

    “Canvas and Clay” by Pat Barrett
    This beautiful worship song captures the heart of being God’s artwork—shaped, molded, and refined by the Master Artist. Let it remind you that you are a masterpiece in progress and that your art can reflect His goodness no matter where you are on the journey.

    FEATURED ARTIST: Shana Grugan

    Layers of Beauty, Shadows of His Presence
    Website | Instagram

    For Shana Grugan, art isn’t just about what we see on the surface—it’s about uncovering the deep, unseen processes that reflect God’s presence and promises.

    Shana is an acrylic painter working on canvas, panel, and paper, inspired by the natural world, especially botanicals. But it’s not just the flowers and plants themselves that capture her imagination—it’s the story behind them. The seed buried underground, the rooting before sprouting, the play of light and shadows—all of it mirrors God’s ways in our lives.

    “My hope is that the final image of beauty beckons the viewer to lean closer to ponder the process beneath it,” she says.

    Her current body of work focuses on shadow shapes, each unique and fleeting—like a whispered promise from God that is here today and never the same again. This revelation began during a season of exhaustion when she noticed the dancing tree shadows on the pavement while taking her new puppy outside. Psalm 91:1 came alive: “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” It was a moment of profound rest and covering that forever marked her creative path.

    Through the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program, Shana went from wrestling with doubt and the question, “Am I good enough?” to becoming fully persuaded by God’s promises over her life.

    “I now have a God-given vision as my roadmap for my life, creative work, and business,” she shares. “I’ve learned to apply ‘faithful with little, ruler of much,’ and as I take steps of faith, God shows up!”

    One beautiful example of this was a recent divine connection with an author of a Christian mini-book series. Years after praying with her at church, Shana was invited to create art for the book’s cover—a commission she would have previously shied away from. She stepped out in faith and was blessed to see God use her art to encourage and inspire others through the book’s message.

    At the heart of Shana’s life and practice is journaling the voice of God. This is not compartmentalized—it’s foundational to every part of her creative and spiritual life. She writes, listens, and co-creates with the Lord, uncovering layers of His goodness along the way.

    Her encouragement to fellow artists?
    “Remember God’s vision for your life. Make it real by imagining it, regularly. Then take the one step He shows you and say yes to the invitation. Be faithful and joyful in the journey.”

    Currently in a season of “simplifying” and “fertilizing,” Shana is focusing deeply on her most fruitful gallery relationships, intentional learning, and meeting consistently with an artist friend for encouragement and accountability.

    Through every layer, texture, and shadow, Shana Grugan invites us to look deeper—beyond the surface—to see the hidden beauty of God at work in every season.

    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.

  • How Artist Mentorship Accelerates Creative Growth and Skill Development

    How Artist Mentorship Accelerates Creative Growth and Skill Development

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    My friend, have you ever felt like there’s so much more inside you—so much untapped creative potential—but you just can’t seem to break through to that next level on your own?

    That feeling isn’t just your imagination. It’s a divine nudge, a holy whisper that you were created for more. And you’re right—solo journeys can only take us so far.

    “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” – Proverbs 11:14

    God designed us to grow together, to learn from one another, and to be sharpened like iron sharpens iron. That’s exactly why artist mentorship isn’t just helpful—it’s transformational for your creative growth.

    How Mentorship Fast-Tracks Your Artistic Development

    1. It Creates Sacred Focus for Your Creative Vision

    When you’re trying to develop as an artist on your own, it’s easy to get pulled in a dozen different directions. Today’s watercolor tutorial. Tomorrow’s acrylic workshop. Next week’s exploration into mixed media.

    While exploration certainly has its place, there’s tremendous power in focused development that comes through mentorship. Inside Created to Thrive, we help you:

    • Clarify your unique artistic voice and vision
    • Limit your artistic palette to develop mastery rather than scattered progress
    • Create a personalized developmental roadmap that builds on your strengths
    • Focus your creative energy where God is leading you specifically

    As Wendy, one of our Created to Thrive members, shares: “Through this mentoring program’s teachings, I’ve been able to refine my style and hone my skills while feeling deeply supported. It’s honestly ‘the best’ and has been a constant source of inspiration.”

    2. It Provides Expert Eyes on Your Creative Journey

    One of the greatest challenges for developing artists is the inability to accurately see ourselves and our work. We’re either too critical or not critical enough. We miss both our greatest strengths and our blind spots.

    A mentor provides the invaluable gift of experienced perspective—eyes that have traveled the road before you and can see what you cannot:

    • Identifying your unique creative strengths that you might be overlooking
    • Spotting technical issues before they become habitual
    • Recognizing when you’re playing it safe versus taking inspired risks
    • Guiding you to push beyond your comfort zone at the right pace

    In our weekly Live Q&A sessions and Expert Hours, we provide personalized feedback that accelerates your growth far beyond what tutorials alone could ever accomplish.

    3. It Aligns Your Creativity with Your Divine Design

    This is where secular mentorship and Kingdom-minded mentorship dramatically diverge. True creative acceleration happens when your artistic growth aligns with who God created you to be.

    Inside Created to Thrive, we help you:

    • Discover how your unique spiritual gifts manifest in your creative expression
    • Learn to create from a place of Spirit-led connection rather than striving
    • Overcome the mindsets and lies that have limited your creative capacity
    • Embrace your authentic voice rather than imitating others

    As Maria from Texas experienced: “Within months I got out of debt, created passive income, stopped self-sabotaging. A year later I have a great monthly membership course and a cool gallery representing me.”

    4. It Provides Proven Frameworks for Creative Mastery

    Rather than the randomness of YouTube tutorials or the overwhelm of conflicting advice, quality mentorship offers clear, tested frameworks for development.

    In the Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program, we’ve organized over 240 video and written resources into 5 strategic modules covering:

    • Heart & Mind: Renewing your thinking and aligning with God’s truth
    • Art: Developing technical skills and your unique creative voice
    • Brand: Crafting your authentic artistic identity and message
    • Business: Building sustainable systems for thriving financially
    • Life: Creating harmony between your art, faith, and daily living

    These frameworks provide the structure and sequence that turns sporadic improvement into consistent mastery.

    5. It Accelerates Learning Through Community Wisdom

    There’s a special kind of acceleration that happens when you’re surrounded by other artists on similar journeys. The collective wisdom, shared experiences, and mutual encouragement create an environment where growth happens naturally.

    Inside Created to Thrive, you’ll experience:

    • Case studies from artists who’ve overcome the same challenges you face
    • Backstage Pass interviews that pull back the curtain on success stories
    • Monthly BizChats and CommunityChats for peer learning and support
    • A private community forum where questions get answered quickly

    This community aspect isn’t just encouraging—it’s exponentially growth-producing, as you learn not only from your own journey but from dozens of others simultaneously.

    The Transformation Available to You

    Picture yourself one year from now—creating work with greater technical skill, deeper spiritual connection, and authentic expression that truly reflects who God made you to be.

    Imagine looking back and seeing how far you’ve come, not through random efforts, but through intentional, guided growth alongside a community that cheers you on.

    As Rachel, one of our members who was previously rejected from art school shares: “My growth accelerated and my life transformed through the mentoring program.”

    My friend, this kind of accelerated creative development isn’t just for “special” artists. It’s available to anyone willing to invest in their growth. You don’t have to figure it all out alone. In fact, you weren’t designed to.

    Are you ready to experience the difference that Kingdom-minded mentorship can make in your creative development? The Created to Thrive Artist Mentorship Program is ready to welcome you into a journey of transformation.

    [Get Started Today for Just $14!]

    Frequently Asked Questions About Artist Mentorship

    How quickly will I see improvement in my creative skills? Many artists begin to notice shifts in their creativity within the first few weeks of joining the program. This often starts with mindset changes that unlock new creative possibilities, followed by technical improvements as you apply the frameworks and feedback. As testimonials show, some members experience significant breakthroughs within just 2-3 months of consistent engagement.

    What if I work in an unusual medium or my artistic style is different? Created to Thrive welcomes artists of all mediums—painters, sculptors, fiber artists, photographers, mixed media artists, and more. The principles of artistic development apply across disciplines, and our diverse community means you’ll likely connect with others working in similar mediums. The focus is on helping you develop YOUR unique artistic voice, not conforming to any particular style.

    How does spiritual growth connect to artistic development? In the Kingdom, your spiritual growth and artistic development aren’t separate journeys—they’re intimately connected. As you align your identity with God’s truth and learn to create from a place of rest rather than striving, you’ll discover new creative freedom. Many artists find that healing from past wounds and renewing their minds according to Scripture removes blocks that were limiting their artistic expression.

    I’m not a full-time artist. Is this program still for me? Absolutely! Many of our members are part-time artists balancing their creative calling with other responsibilities. The program is designed to meet you where you are and help you grow from that point—whether you’re creating a few hours a week or working toward full-time art making. The structure allows you to progress at your own pace while still implementing transformational principles.

    Explore More About Artist Mentorship Benefits