• From Worry to Worship: Redeeming the Artist’s Imagination

    ISSUE #027

    Friend, if you’ve ever found yourself lying awake at night, your imagination running wild with all the “what ifs,” you’re not alone. As artists, our imagination is one of the most powerful tools God has given us — but the enemy loves to hijack it. Instead of creating beauty, story, and vision, we start spinning endless false narratives that lead to fear and anxiety. This week, I want to help you redeem that imagination, turning it from a stage for fear into a sanctuary for faith.

    The truth is, worry is nothing more than faith pointed in the wrong direction. But when we anchor our imagination in God’s promises, He transforms that same energy into peace, contentment, and creative freedom. My prayer is that this issue equips you to stop letting worry write the script and start letting worship set the stage.

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

    In His love and creativity,
    Matt Tommey


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    When Worship Meets Abstract Expression

    This week, meet David Scott, an abstract painter who turns prayer, worship, and bold layers of color into encounters with the Creator. His work is a living reminder that every brushstroke can become an act of praise.

    DISCOVER MORE ABOUT DAVID IN THIS ISSUE

    CONNECT

    Scripture: “Do not worry then… for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But first and most importantly seek His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you also.” — Matthew 6:31, 33 (AMP)

    When worry rises, it’s easy to forget that God already knows our needs and has promised to provide. Worry whispers scarcity, but worship reminds us of abundance. As artists, we can intentionally redirect our imagination — picturing His provision, His promises, and His purposes.

    Prayer:
    Father, I give You the false stories that fear has been writing in my imagination. Redeem my mind so that instead of fueling anxiety, my creativity becomes a sanctuary for Your truth. Help me picture Your promises fulfilled in my life and through my art. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Action Step: Each morning this week, write down one promise of God and spend 5 minutes visualizing it as if it were already true in your life.


    CLARIFY

    Clarity for the week doesn’t come from trying to do everything — it comes from asking God: “Lord, what’s most important for me to focus on right now?” When we invite Him into our planning, we silence the swirl of worry and step into the peace of alignment.

    This week, I encourage you to pause, listen, and ask God to highlight the one thing in your creative journey that truly matters most. Maybe it’s finishing a piece, reaching out to a collector, or simply resting in His presence.

    Action Step: Write down 1–3 specific goals for your art and life this week that reflect God’s direction, not your fears. Keep them visible and revisit them each day in prayer.


    CREATE

    Your imagination was designed to envision Kingdom possibilities. Every time you put brush to canvas, shape clay, or sketch a new idea, you’re choosing what story your imagination will serve. Will it fuel fear — or form faith?

    Scripture: “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” — Philippians 4:13 (NASB)

    Action Step: Create one piece of art this week that visualizes God’s promise instead of your worry. Let your imagination worship Him through your medium.


    CULTIVATE

    Comparison is one of the enemy’s favorite ways to hijack an artist’s imagination. Instead of celebrating our uniqueness in the Body of Christ, we end up worrying about what “they” are doing. But Scripture reminds us: “God has placed the members, each one of them, in the body, just as He desired.” (1 Corinthians 12:18 NASB)

    Connection Tip: Instead of scrolling and comparing, celebrate another artist this week. Comment thoughtfully on their work, share their post, or send them an encouraging message.

    Action Step: Reach out to one fellow artist or collector this week and tell them specifically how their work or support has inspired you.

    👉 GET YOUR CORE4 FOCUS PLANNER NOW

    WATCH & LISTEN

    Anxiety, Imagination & Faith

    Listen on Apple Podcast
    Listen on Spotify

    This week’s podcast and Youtube video digs into why artists worry so vividly, how Paul found the secret of contentment, and how you can redeem your imagination to become a sanctuary for faith instead of fear.

    I share key Scriptures like Philippians 4 and James 1, plus practical steps for turning worry into worship through your art.

    Key Takeaway: Your imagination isn’t broken — it just needs to be anchored in Christ. When you stop rehearsing false stories of fear and start envisioning God’s promises, your creativity becomes a tool for breakthrough.

    ARTBIZ TIP FOR THRIVING

    Many artists struggle with the fear that there isn’t “enough” — enough clients, enough money, enough opportunity. But that worry mindset will keep your imagination stuck. Instead, think of yourself as a steward of what God has already placed in your hands. Stewardship invites growth and multiplication.

    Practical Tip: Take inventory this week of the opportunities, relationships, and resources you already have. Then prayerfully ask, “Lord, how can I faithfully steward what’s in my hands right now?” You’ll be surprised how often provision flows out of stewardship, not striving.

    This Issue Sponsored By:

    The Foundations Course: A 9-Week Spirit-Led Journey to Heal Your Heart, Renew Your Mind, and Awaken Your Calling as a Christian Artist.

    Get the Book | Get the Online Course

    I have never in my life felt this kind of freedom—not in my spirit and not in my artwork.” – Cheryl


    WORSHIP

    When worry tries to hijack our imagination, worship re-anchors us in truth. “Trust in God” is a powerful reminder that our confidence isn’t in circumstances but in the One who holds it all together. The lyrics echo the heart of Philippians 4 — finding strength, peace, and contentment in Christ alone.

    As you listen, let the words wash over you and redirect your imagination from fear to faith, from scarcity to God’s abundance.



    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.

  • Breaking Through Creative Roadblocks

    ISSUE #011

    We’ve all hit that invisible wall—the one where you show up to the studio with high hopes and leave discouraged, wondering where your spark went. This week, I want to speak directly into that moment. The truth is, creative blocks are not signs of failure—they’re invitations. They’re signposts that something deeper might be going on beneath the surface, something God wants to address, heal, or renew.

    Philippians 4:13 reminds us that we can do all things—including push through creative resistance—through Christ who strengthens us. So if you’re facing a block right now, take heart. There is grace available. There’s clarity waiting on the other side of confusion. And there’s a river of creativity that flows when we lean into God’s presence instead of our performance.

    May this week be filled with supernatural insight, released pressure, and a fresh awareness of God’s power flowing through your creativity.

    In His love and creativity,
    Matt Tommey

    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: Philippians 4:13

    Creative blocks don’t just appear out of nowhere—they often point to areas where we’ve believed lies, absorbed fear, or tried to operate in our own strength. Paul’s words in Philippians 4:13 aren’t about hustle. They’re about surrender. When we abide in Christ and depend on His strength, we’re not just empowered to create—we’re liberated to be fully ourselves.

    Prayer:
    Jesus, I lay down every fear, every mental block, and every bit of pressure I’ve been carrying. I believe You’ve called me, and You will strengthen me. Speak into the dry places and reignite my heart with Your beauty. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Spiritual Action Step:
    Identify one lie or pressure you’ve been carrying about your art, and write a biblical truth to replace it. Declare it aloud every time resistance surfaces.


    CLARIFY

    Sometimes the biggest block isn’t artistic—it’s mental clutter. Clarity often comes when we pause long enough to discern what’s draining us. Are you overcommitted? Overstimulated? Have you been comparing your work to others or working for validation instead of overflow?

    God’s strength doesn’t rush—it flows. Take a moment to ask Him where your creative energy is getting stuck.

    Reflection Prompt:
    What’s been clouding my focus or draining my passion this week?

    Practical Action Step:
    Write out three clear, doable creative priorities for the week that align with peace and purpose—not pressure.


    CREATE

    Creative blocks are real, but they’re not permanent. Often, the best way to break through is not by waiting on inspiration—but by creating anyway. Give yourself permission to make without perfection. Just like priming a pump, consistent motion awakens momentum.

    And remember, Jesus is with you in the process. Even your ‘messy’ art time can be a sacred offering.

    Studio Action Step:
    Choose one medium and set a timer for 20 minutes. Create without judgment. No editing. No erasing. Just flow. Notice what God stirs as you move freely.


    CULTIVATE

    Creative blocks can isolate us, but connection re-energizes us. Sharing what you’re navigating—even if it feels vulnerable—creates bridges. When you show up in honesty, your audience leans in. They don’t want perfect—they want real.

    Marketing Insight:
    This week, tell your audience about a creative block you’ve faced and how you’re pressing through it with God. This not only builds trust—it invites others into transformation too.

    Outreach Action Step:
    Post a short reflection, a before/after, or a simple question: ‘What helps you break through creative blocks?’


    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Platform: Artrooms

    Artrooms is a powerful app that lets you visualize your artwork in realistic interior settings—making your online presentation stronger and more engaging. Collectors want to imagine your art in their space. Artrooms helps them do just that.

    Creative Tip:
    Upload three of your pieces to Artrooms and explore how they look in various room mockups. Choose one and share it on Instagram to boost engagement and professional polish.

    Link: https://artroomsapp.com


    INSPIRE

    Murals That Mend: Art, Faith & Social Justice

    In Millvale, Pennsylvania, a striking story of faith-driven art conservation is unfolding around the 80-year-old murals painted inside St. Nicholas Croatian Catholic Church by Maksimilijan ‘Maxo’ Vanka. These vivid murals, blending traditional religious imagery with bold social commentary, depict the struggles of immigrant mothers, war, and economic injustice—earning them the nickname ‘The Sistine Chapel of Pittsburgh.’

    Thanks to the Society to Preserve the Millvale Murals, sections of the artwork were restored in May 2025, now shining as they did 80 years ago. Supported by grants and community outreach, this project reminds us that art can be a spiritual declaration and a tool for justice.

    Takeaway:
    Think beyond the canvas. Could your next project preserve legacy, restore truth, or build community through beauty?

    Find out more about this inspiring story


    LISTEN

    Episode Title: Breaking Through Creative Roadblocks

    In this episode, I share the three major causes of creative blocks: spiritual warfare, internal clutter, and inspiration gaps. You’ll learn how to confront fear-based thoughts with biblical truth, partner with the Holy Spirit in the midst of resistance, and apply practical tools to get the creative flow going again. If you’re feeling stuck, this one’s for you.

    Listen Now


    WATCH

    Song: ‘Break Every Chain’ – Jesus Culture

    This week’s worship pick is all about spiritual breakthrough. As you listen, let the declarations of freedom soak into your spirit and push back against creative resistance. You are not stuck—you are being strengthened.


    FEATURED ARTIST: Mark Lee

    Redemption, Reinvention, and Art with a Second Chance
    📍 Website | 📱 Instagram

    For Mark Lee, creating art isn’t just about crafting something beautiful—it’s about telling a story of redemption, second chances, and the God who makes all things new.

    Mark is the creative force behind One of a Kind NZ, where he repurposes vintage objects into functional, one-of-a-kind works of art. From clocks and lighting fixtures to Bluetooth stereos and sculptural pieces, his designs breathe new life into forgotten items. “I transform vintage objects that have outlived their original purpose,” he explains. “In many ways, my work mirrors my own journey—infused with themes of redemption and second chances.”

    That personal journey has been shaped and strengthened by his connection to the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program.

    “When I was just getting started, CTT’s teaching, fellowship, and encouragement were invaluable. To realize there are so many others gifted and called to the creative arts—and to journey with them toward success and fulfillment—is amazing.”

    Mark describes that unmistakable moment of creative joy when you’re completely aligned with your calling: “You’re working on a piece and you just know—you were 100% created for this.”

    As he’s grown in his calling, Mark has found that the foundation for all he does is rooted in identity:
    🎯 “It all starts with understanding how God sees me. Once we understand His love for us, it’s much easier to understand His purpose for us.”

    That clarity has opened the door for many powerful God-moments—especially in the sale of his work. “What others may call coincidence or karma, I call God doing what He does,” he says. Mark regularly experiences divine timing and unexpected provision through his business. Whether it’s a high-end piece or a $7 card, he always stops to give thanks. “Every time I sell something, I thank God immediately. I recognize His hand in it all.”

    In addition to being a skilled artist and craftsman, Mark also brings years of experience as a graphic designer, which shines through in his polished branding. Everything from his signage to his social media is a reflection of the excellence and thoughtfulness he puts into his creative business. It’s no surprise that other artists often ask him for guidance and advice.

    Mark Lee’s work is a testament to what’s possible when artistry, identity, and purpose come together. Through every piece he creates, he’s not just restoring objects—he’s releasing hope, excellence, and the unmistakable touch of the Creator.


    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.

  • In Christ, You’re Not Far from God: How to Break Free from Religious Lies

    If you’re a believer, you must understand that any thought, feeling, or fear that tries to convince you God is distant from you or you are distant from Him is fundamentally anti-Christ.

    Heres a few ways these sinister beliefs may show up:

    1. Prayer as Begging Instead of Declaring: You find yourself constantly pleading with God as if you need to convince Him to help you, rather than praying from your position as His child with authority to speak His will into situations.

    2. Shame Spirals After Sin: When you mess up, you withdraw from God and feel like you need to “get right” before approaching Him again, instead of running TO Him knowing His grace has already covered you.

    3. Performance-Based Relationship: You measure your spiritual “temperature” by how much you read your Bible, prayed, or served this week, believing God’s love and blessing fluctuates based on your spiritual disciplines.

    4. Fear-Driven Decision Making: You constantly second-guess yourself, afraid of missing God’s will or making the “wrong” choice, rather than trusting that He guides your steps and works all things together for good.

    5. Powerless Victim Mentality: You see yourself at the mercy of circumstances, sickness, or spiritual attacks, forgetting that the same power that raised Christ from the dead lives in you and has given you authority over the enemy.

    Many sincere Christians live in internal prisons created by the religious spirit designed to keep them bound in a false understanding of their relationship with God. That somehow (even though the are already in Christ by grace through faith) they are still far away, performing for His love and acceptance.

    Religious Hogwash.

    Here’s what Scripture actually declares about your reality as a believer:

    🔥 The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead lives IN YOU (Romans 8:11)

    👑 The Kingdom of God – His complete authority and dominion over all creation for all eternity – dwells within you (Luke 17:21)

    💪 You carry and can release resurrection power everywhere you go

    The distance you feel? The weakness you experience? The limitations you accept? None of these reflect your true spiritual reality in Christ.

    The only thing standing between you and walking in the fullness of what Jesus purchased for you is this: your willingness to intentionally renew your mind.

    When you align your thoughts with God’s truth about who you are and what you carry, everything changes. You don’t need more of God. You need to recognize that God – in all His fullness – already lives in you.

    What would change in your life if you truly believed this today?

    For more on Kingdom living, check out my best-selling book, God’s Plan for Living.