• The Power of Your “Yes” as a Christian Artist

    The Power of Your “Yes” as a Christian Artist

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    ISSUE #045

    What would really happen if you stopped holding back?

    Not halfway. Not cautiously. Not tucked safely in the corner of your life where creativity feels manageable and non-threatening. I’m talking about a wholehearted, surrendered, bold yes to the creative life God has already whispered to your heart. I’ve watched it happen in my own life and in the lives of thousands of artists around the world. When that yes rises up from deep within, something shifts. The pressure lifts. The striving quiets. And the atmosphere around your creativity begins to change.

    This week, we’re leaning into that powerful moment of surrender. Because God isn’t waiting on your perfection. He’s waiting on your agreement. And when your heart aligns with His purpose, everything begins to move differently. Let’s talk about what actually happens when you give Him your yes—and how to stay steady when resistance tries to show up.

    When you give God your yes, you step into agreement with Heaven. And when Heaven and your heart agree, things move.

    In His love and creativity,
    Matt Tommey

    P.S. Ready to say yes to your calling? Start here:

    From Guilt to Creative Calling

    For years, Hoda Nicholas believed her artistic desire was unspiritual—even something to suppress. So what changed? She experienced a mindset breakthrough that completely transformed how she saw herself, her creativity, and even God’s heart toward her art. Today, she paints with freedom, joy, and a deep sense of divine partnership. Her story might just shift something in you too. READ MORE

    This Week’s Issue Sponsored By:

    Experience Creative Breakthrough & Spiritual Freedom in Christ

    9 Spirit-Led Lessons to Help You Move Forward with Clarity, Confidence, and Purpose as a Christian Artist

    LEARN MORE

    CONNECT

    “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” – Colossians 3:15 (NLT)

    When you give God your yes as an artist, the first thing that returns is peace. Not hype. Not hustle. Peace. You stop creating as an orphan striving for approval and begin creating as a beloved son or daughter who is already accepted. The atmosphere of your studio changes because you’re no longer trying to earn love—you’re creating from it.

    Prayer:
    Father, today I give You my yes again. Let Your peace rule in my heart and in my studio. Strip away striving, perfectionism, and fear. Teach me to create from belovedness, not for validation. I receive Your joy as my strength. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Action Step:
    Before you begin creating this week, pause for five minutes. Sit quietly and invite the peace of Christ to “rule” in your heart. Don’t rush into productivity—enter into presence first.

    CLARIFY

    When you say yes to God, clarity begins to follow obedience.

    Scripture tells us that a person’s gift makes room for them (Proverbs 18:16). But many artists stay stuck trying to force doors open instead of stewarding the gift that’s already in their hands. This week, instead of striving for visibility or obsessing over outcomes, ask yourself: Where is God already opening a door that I’ve been hesitant to walk through?

    Action Step:
    Write down one opportunity you’ve been hesitating on—submitting to a show, reaching out to a collector, launching a series, posting consistently. Pray over it. Then take one concrete step toward it this week.

    CREATE

    When you align with the Creator, creative flow increases.

    You’re not limited to your own imagination. You’re connected to the Source. I’ve seen it over and over—artists who feel stuck suddenly experience fresh downloads of ideas once they surrender control. Creativity shifts from pressure to partnership. From anxiety to flow.

    Even in Exodus 31, Bezalel was filled with the Spirit of God to create skillfully and beautifully. Your creativity is meant to be empowered, not exhausted.

    Action Step:
    Start your next project by asking: “Holy Spirit, what do You want to express through me?” Sketch freely for 20 minutes without editing yourself. Let flow replace fear.

    CULTIVATE

    When you give God your yes, provision often follows positioning.

    As you begin to treat your art with dignity and value what God has placed in you, others begin to value it too. Shame around prosperity breaks. A poverty mindset loosens its grip. You realize that stewarding your gift well blesses not only you—but others and the Kingdom.

    Provision is not about chasing money. It’s about alignment. When you’re positioned correctly, doors open that no critic, algorithm, or economy can shut (Revelation 3:8).

    Action Step:
    Reach out to one collector, supporter, or follower this week with gratitude. Don’t pitch—connect. Relationship builds trust. Trust builds sustainability.

    The Core4 Focus Planner™

    A 90-Day Undated Planner to Help You Stay Focused, Grow Spiritually, and Make Measurable Progress in Your Art

    “This planner is my “tool of intentionality” and sits next to my Bible and journal. It’s also the perfect size to hang on to as a way to go back and celebrate the work that I’ve done. Thanks so much!” – Debby

    Get Your Core4 Focus Planner Now

    WATCH & LISTEN

    Episode: What Happens When You Say “Yes” to Your Creative Calling

    LISTEN ON APPLEPODCAST

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    In this week’s podcast, I unpack the five powerful outcomes that begin to unfold when you give God your wholehearted yes as an artist—peace returning to your studio, doors of favor opening, transformation flowing through your art, provision increasing, and fresh creativity being released.

    But I also share one critical warning: resistance will show up. Pushback isn’t a sign you’re off track—it’s often confirmation you’re moving forward. When you understand this, you won’t be blindsided by doubt or distraction.

    Listen in and let this episode strengthen your resolve to step fully into your calling.

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Platform: YouTube

    If you’re sharing your art journey online, YouTube is one of the most powerful long-term platforms available. Unlike short-form social media that disappears quickly, YouTube content builds over time and can continue serving you for years.

    Tip:
    Create one simple 5–8 minute video sharing the story behind a recent piece. Focus on transformation, not technique. Viewers connect with heart and story more than process alone.

    You can upload directly at:
    https://www.youtube.com/

    Don’t overthink production quality. Start with authenticity. Consistency beats perfection.

    WORSHIP

    As you quiet your heart and mind, let this song become your prayer today. Give God your total and complete “yes” for everything He has created you for as an artist in the Kingdom.

    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.

  • Don’t Quit, Keep Making: 10 Timely Reminders for Artists from the Heart of God

    Don’t Quit, Keep Making: 10 Timely Reminders for Artists from the Heart of God

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    Every artist knows the battle that happens in the studio. One day the ideas flow like a river, the next day the canvas feels like a wall. We wrestle with fear, distraction, comparison, and doubt. And yet, in the middle of it all, God is speaking. He longs to remind His artists—His sons and daughters—that creativity isn’t just about producing pretty things; it’s about partnering with Him to reveal His glory on the earth.

    Recently, I asked my Mastery Program students to share what they felt God was saying to them in this season. What came out was a list so powerful that I knew it wasn’t just for them—it was for you too. These ten reminders are like mile markers for your journey as a Christian artist. They’ll help you stay grounded in truth, overcome obstacles, and keep pressing forward in your calling.

    So, let’s dive in:

    1. Don’t worry, just create

    Worry is one of the greatest creativity killers. It fills your mind with noise, making it nearly impossible to hear the gentle whisper of the Holy Spirit. Jesus said plainly:

    “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing?” (Matthew 6:25, NLT)

    When you worry about whether your art will sell, if people will like it, or if you’re even “good enough,” you’re carrying a burden that was never yours to carry. God hasn’t called you to figure out all the outcomes—He’s called you to show up and create. Your job is faithfulness in the studio. His job is fruitfulness in the Kingdom.

    2. Fully surrender

    True creativity flows from surrender. When you cling to your own plans, timelines, and definitions of success, you risk missing out on the greater story God wants to write through your life and art.

    Jesus modeled this for us in the Garden of Gethsemane:

    “Father, if You are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done.” (Luke 22:42, NIV)

    As artists, surrender means laying down your ego, your desire for recognition, and even your fear of failure. It’s saying, “Lord, this is Yours. Use it however You want.” When your art becomes an offering instead of a performance, you’ll find freedom you never knew was possible.

    3. Let go of people pleasing, shoulds, and ought-to’s

    People pleasing is exhausting. It keeps you creating from obligation instead of inspiration. Paul asked the Galatians a piercing question:

    “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” (Galatians 1:10, NIV)

    When you live under the weight of “shoulds” and “ought-to’s,” you miss the joy of simply being who God made you to be. Letting go of people pleasing doesn’t mean ignoring feedback or community—it means refusing to let others’ expectations dictate your worth or direction. Your assignment comes from the Lord, not the crowd.

    4. Don’t quit, keep making

    Every artist faces the temptation to quit. Maybe the sales aren’t happening, the breakthrough feels delayed, or life’s distractions pull you away from the studio. But quitting cuts off the very process through which God shapes you and impacts others.

    Paul encouraged the Galatians with this timeless truth:

    “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.” (Galatians 6:9, NLT)

    Every brushstroke, sketch, woven strand, or carved surface is a seed planted in faith. You may not see the harvest yet, but it’s growing under the surface. Keep making. Keep showing up. Your obedience in the studio matters more than you realize.

    5. Quit selling God short

    Sometimes we limit God by what we think is possible. We lower our expectations to avoid disappointment. But the truth is, God’s vision for your life and art is far greater than anything you could dream up on your own.

    “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.” (Ephesians 3:20, NIV)

    When you sell God short, you settle for scraps when He’s laid out a banquet. Your role is not to figure out how—it’s to believe that He can and will. Dare to dream with Him. Dare to step into opportunities that stretch you. He’s not finished writing your story.

    6. Master your skills in art

    Excellence honors God. Developing your artistic skill isn’t about pride or perfectionism—it’s about stewardship. God has entrusted you with a gift, and part of honoring Him is sharpening that gift to its fullest potential.

    “Do you see any truly competent workers? They will serve kings rather than working for ordinary people.” (Proverbs 22:29, NLT)

    When you invest in your craft—whether through practice, study, or mentorship—you’re preparing yourself to serve in greater ways. Skill and anointing go hand in hand. Your excellence becomes a testimony of the God who inspires and equips you.

    7. Face the fear

    Fear shows up in many disguises: procrastination, perfectionism, self-doubt, even tech overwhelm. But at its core, fear is always a liar. It tells you that you’re not enough, that failure is inevitable, or that God won’t show up.

    Paul wrote to Timothy:

    “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 only way to conquer fear is to face it head-on with faith. Every time you step into the studio despite the butterflies, every time you try something new even when you’re not sure, you’re declaring that fear doesn’t get the final word.

    8. Commit to the vision God has shown you

    When God gives you a vision, it’s not a passing idea—it’s an assignment. He doesn’t dangle possibilities in front of you just to take them away. If He called you, He will equip you.

    “For the vision is yet for an appointed time; but at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.” (Habakkuk 2:3, NKJV)

    Committing to the vision means staying faithful even when results are slow. It means trusting His timing over your own. Write it down. Pray over it. Keep showing up. The vision will speak—it’s only a matter of time.

    9. Stay on God’s “bullseye”

    Life is full of distractions. Opportunities, responsibilities, and shiny new ideas can pull you in a dozen directions. But God has a bullseye for your life—a center point where your unique design and His purpose meet.

    Jesus said:

    “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need.” (Matthew 6:33, NLT)

    Staying on the bullseye means keeping your focus on His Kingdom first. Everything else flows from that place of alignment. Ask the Holy Spirit daily: “What’s on Your heart today?” That simple prayer will keep you centered on what matters most.

    10. You never outgrow renewing your mind

    Transformation is a lifelong process. No matter how mature you become as an artist or believer, you’ll always need to bring your thoughts into alignment with God’s truth.

    “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2, NKJV)

    Renewing your mind means replacing lies with truth. It means refusing to let past failures or present circumstances define you. As you keep soaking in God’s Word and declaring His promises, you’ll find that your art—and your life—overflow with Kingdom transformation.

    Final Thoughts

    This list isn’t just encouragement—it’s a battle plan. When the enemy whispers lies or your own doubts rise up, come back to these truths. Print them out. Tape them to your studio wall. Pray through them before you create.

    Remember: God hasn’t called you just to survive as an artist. He’s called you to thrive. He’s with you in every brushstroke, every woven fiber, every line of poetry, every creative risk. His Spirit within you is the ultimate source of inspiration, courage, and breakthrough.

    So today, hear His voice afresh: Don’t worry. Surrender. Keep making. Stay on target. Renew your mind. And most of all, trust Me—I am with you.

    Ready to Go Deeper?

    If you’ve ever felt like giving up on your art, you’re not alone. Every artist wrestles with doubt, fear, and the temptation to quit. The difference between those who thrive and those who stall isn’t talent—it’s having the right foundation in place.

    That’s why I created The Foundations Course™. It’s a step-by-step journey designed to help Christian artists like you overcome fear, renew your mind, and align your creativity with God’s purpose. Through practical teaching, biblical truth, and real-world strategies, you’ll learn how to:

    • Break free from self-doubt, fear, and overwhelm.
    • Develop confidence in your identity as a Kingdom artist.
    • Establish rhythms that keep you creating with consistency.
    • Build momentum in your art so you don’t quit halfway through.

    Hundreds of artists have gone through this course and discovered the clarity, confidence, and courage they needed to keep making and step fully into God’s calling.

    👉 If you’re tired of spinning your wheels, wondering if you should even keep going, The Foundations Course™ is your lifeline. Start today and give yourself the gift of a solid foundation for the artist life God designed you to live.

    Learn more and start The Foundations Course™ today »

  • Creating Invitations for Connection

    Creating Invitations for Connection

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    Issue #015

    One of the most beautiful things about being an artist is that our work is never just about paint on canvas or clay in our hands—it’s about the connections we create. Art has an incredible way of opening doors, breaking down walls, and inviting people into spaces of honesty, healing, and hope. When we share our art, we’re really offering an invitation: “Come and see what God is doing in me—and maybe in you too.”

    This week, we’re leaning into that power of invitation. Proverbs 11:25 reminds us, “The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” That’s the heartbeat of a thriving artist: generosity that ripples outward, creating moments of transformation for everyone who encounters our work.

    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!

    In His love and creativity,
    Matt Tommey

    SUBSCRIBE TO THE WEEKLY

    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: “The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” — Proverbs 11:25 (NLT)

    Our calling as artists isn’t just to create—it’s to invite. Each piece you make holds the potential to refresh someone’s spirit, to draw them closer to beauty, and ultimately, to the heart of God. When we open ourselves up and share generously, we embody the very nature of Christ, who gave freely and abundantly.

    Prayer:
    Father, thank You for the creative gifts You’ve entrusted to me. Help me to see my art as an invitation to Your love and goodness. Teach me to be generous with my gifts, knowing that as I refresh others, You will refresh me. May every piece I create carry Your presence and draw hearts closer to You. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Spiritual Action Step: Choose one piece of your art this week and intentionally share the story behind it with someone. Let it be a doorway for deeper conversation and connection.

    CLARIFY

    When you think about your art practice this week, ask yourself: How am I inviting others into connection—both with me and with God? Sometimes we get so focused on finishing pieces or hitting deadlines that we forget the bigger purpose behind our work. It’s not just about completing the next painting or sculpture; it’s about creating spaces where people can feel seen, inspired, and loved.

    Take time to clarify your “why” this week. Write it down somewhere you can see it daily—perhaps in your studio or journal. This focus will keep your heart aligned with God’s intentions for your art and your audience.

    Practical Action Step: Draft a short “Artist’s Invitation” statement that captures your heart for connection through art. Use it on your website, social media, or even in-person when talking about your work.

    CREATE

    Artistic practice is at its best when it overflows from a place of authentic connection. Remember, your creative process itself can be an invitation—an open door for the Holy Spirit to move in and through you. As you create this week, consider how each stroke, stitch, or sculpted line is an offering, a gentle “come and see” to those who will encounter it.

    Sometimes the most powerful art emerges when we’re not striving for perfection but simply making space for God to speak. Embrace the imperfections, the experiments, and the unexpected moments—they’re all part of the divine conversation unfolding in your hands.

    Studio Action Step: Create one new piece this week purely as an act of invitation—no pressure to sell it or make it “perfect.” Focus on the joy of the process and what God might want to reveal through it.

    CULTIVATE

    Your relationships with collectors, followers, and fellow creatives are fertile ground for connection and growth. People don’t just buy your art; they invest in the story, the heart, and the journey behind it. When you invite others into that journey, you’re building a community around your creative calling.

    This week, think about how you can be more intentional in cultivating these connections. Whether through sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses, sending a personal thank-you note, or engaging more deeply on social media, each interaction is an opportunity to sow seeds of trust and encouragement.

    Outreach Action Step: Send a handwritten note or a heartfelt email to at least three collectors or followers this week. Thank them for their support and share a little of what’s inspiring you right now.

    WATCH

    Have you ever felt a deep longing to create — to paint, write, sculpt, sing, or make beautiful things with your hands — but found yourself pushing it aside for more “practical” responsibilities? Feeling restless or unfulfilled? This video explores why you might be experiencing creative resistance and unintentionally missing your divine intervention.

    Learn how to step into your creative potential and overcome what’s holding you back from achieving creative success. Discover the joy of pursuing your passions! Maybe you’ve believed that your creative desires were just hobbies or distractions, not worthy of real attention. But what if those very desires are God’s invitation to step into a life of deeper purpose and joy?

    In this video, I share my own journey from serving as a worship pastor and prioritizing stability, to finally embracing my love for nature and creating art with my hands. I’ll show you how I discovered that what I thought was a side interest was actually my God-given creative calling — and how you can recognize and embrace yours too.

    Together, we’ll explore:

    • ✅ How to recognize God’s creative invitation in your life
    • ✅ The fears and distractions that keep us from stepping out
    • ✅ Biblical truths that set you free to create boldly
    • ✅ Practical steps to start living your calling today

    If you’re ready to move from frustration to freedom and discover the joy of creating with God, this video is for you.

    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Platform: MailerLite
    MailerLite makes email marketing simple and approachable—perfect for artists who want to build deeper connections without getting overwhelmed by tech jargon. With its easy drag-and-drop interface, you can create beautiful emails that share your story, highlight new collections, and invite collectors into your world.

    Tip: Create a simple three-part welcome sequence to nurture new subscribers:

    1. About Me: Share your heart, your journey, and why you create.
    2. My Art Story: Introduce your artistic process and what makes your work unique.
    3. Current Collection: Highlight your latest pieces and invite them to explore.

    Sign up for MailerLite and start turning casual followers into devoted collectors.

    INSPIRE

    Wabi-Sabi Blooms: Reviving San Antonio’s Forgotten Corners

    I recently came across a truly uplifting story about Albert Gonzales, a San Antonio artist transforming neglected spaces with his Wabi-Sabi Blooms project. He’s committed to painting large, vibrant flower murals in every zip code of San Antonio—27 neighborhoods so far!

    Leaving his corporate job in 2014 to pursue art full-time, Albert started small and faithful. His mission isn’t just about beautifying walls but inviting people into a moment of wonder and connection with their community. He’s even covering all expenses himself because he believes everyone deserves a moment of beauty each day.

    Albert’s story challenges us: How might you bring unexpected joy and connection into your community? Maybe through a free art giveaway, a shared mural, or mentoring another creative soul. Let’s keep spreading God’s love and beauty everywhere we go. Read more here.

    LISTEN

    Creating Sacred Connections Through Art

    Listen Now

    What truly sets thriving artists apart? It’s not just talent or hustle—it’s their ability to create intentional connections through their art, process, and story.

    When you generously share your journey, you’re living out Proverbs 11:25: “A generous person will prosper. Whoever refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” Your openness becomes a magnet for authentic relationships and growth—both spiritual and professional.

    Remember: holding back often says, “I don’t trust God in me.” Freedom comes when you offer your best and trust Him to multiply it.

    Ready to start inviting others into your creative world?

    WORSHIP

    This powerful song is a beautiful reminder of what it means to be fully available to God and others. As you listen, let the lyrics become a prayer of surrender and invitation. Allow it to refocus your heart on being open, generous, and ready to share your gifts with the world.

    FEATURED ARTIST: Cheryl Wilson

    Layers of Emotion, Depth, and Divine Connection
    📍 Website | 📱 Instagram

    For Cheryl Wilson, painting isn’t just an act of creativity—it’s an act of deep spiritual surrender and transformation. Through her abstract paintings, Cheryl channels emotion, movement, and texture in ways that words can’t capture, creating pieces that speak to the soul.

    Her artistic journey took a profound turn when she joined the Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program.

    “Even in a short time, this program has been transformative,” she shares. “It awakened a deeper knowledge of my worth as a Christian woman, deepened my faith, and gave me confidence to embrace my artistic voice. Only an awesome God can do this in me!”

    Cheryl works primarily in abstract painting, exploring layers of transparency, chaotic lines that resolve, and thick textures that express her curiosity and search for meaning. Her TORN Series, originally inspired by aging in her 60s, has evolved into a lifelong narrative of growth and healing.

    “When I let go of trying to direct the process and allowed the paintings to happen, it felt like God was speaking to me through each brushstroke,” she explains. “It was sometimes painful and uncertain, but the growth has been incredible—and still continues.”

    Two standout pieces from this journey include “Broken Wings” and “Emotional Layering,” each capturing the raw process of breaking and mending that mirrors her spiritual walk.

    An introvert and empath, Cheryl often processes her emotions through her art rather than words. “Painting is where I find peace, healing, and a deeper connection with God,” she says. “It allows me to connect with others in ways I never could otherwise, and it opens the door to conversations I used to fear.”

    A pivotal breakthrough came when she committed to painting 100 small works in one week—a bold act of surrender and trust. By allowing God to guide each brushstroke, Cheryl discovered her unique artistic voice and found freedom beyond expectations and trends. “Through that practice of releasing control, my true artistic path emerged—one rooted in faith and authenticity.”

    Cheryl’s journey has also included opening up to her husband about the profound meaning art holds in her life, which has deepened their bond and encouraged her to step fully into her purpose. God continues to surprise her with blessings—honorable mentions in shows, new gallery opportunities, and growing confidence in her calling.

    Her creative habits are anchored in prayer and quiet reflection before every studio session, inviting God into each moment. She documents her journey on her blog, Ruby Prose, and shares her process openly on social media and YouTube, creating a beautiful community of faith-filled creatives.

    Her encouragement to fellow artists?
    🎨 “Trust the process—both creatively and spiritually. Keep showing up, even when it feels hard. God will guide your journey and reveal your voice in His perfect timing. You can’t outgive God!”

    Today, Cheryl is seeing incredible growth in her willingness to share her story and art boldly. Through authentic connection and community, she’s experiencing more sales, collectors, and unexpected doors opening. And through it all, she’s learning to trust more deeply, create more freely, and celebrate each step as a divine gift.

    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

    This Issue Sponsored by The Created to Thrive Foundations Course

    Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to step fully into your creative calling? Maybe you’ve been waiting for the “perfect moment” to start—but let me tell you, there’s no better time than right now to take that first step.

    The Created to Thrive Foundations Course is your roadmap to transformation—spiritually, creatively, and professionally. Through powerful teachings, practical strategies, and faith-filled encouragement, you’ll learn how to overcome fear, break free from limiting mindsets, and align your creative life with God’s divine design for you.

    I’ve seen hundreds of artists move from confusion and frustration to clarity and freedom by diving into these foundational truths—and I know you can too.

    👉 Start your journey of transformation now.

    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.

  • Redefining Success: The Secret to Thriving as an Artist

    Redefining Success: The Secret to Thriving as an Artist

    , , ,

    What if I told you the biggest thing holding you back as an artist isn’t your painting skill, your marketing strategy, or even the audience you have access to? What if the real barrier is actually how you define success?

    After mentoring thousands of Christian artists over the years, I’ve realized that so many well-meaning creatives spend their lives chasing a version of success that God never intended for them. And it’s no wonder they end up burned out, frustrated, and sometimes even wanting to give up on their art completely.

    But friend, let me encourage you — God has a much better plan. A plan that brings real abundance, deep joy, and lasting impact. One that not only fulfills you but also blesses countless others along the way.

    From Hobbyist to Kingdom Artist

    For years, I was what I like to call an “ENT” artist — an “every now and then” artist. I’d make baskets in the fall and winter when the weather was nice, maybe do a few art shows to make some Christmas money. I loved it, but I never once thought that God had a plan for my art. In my mind, my spiritual life was in one box, my art life was in another, and my business life somewhere else altogether.

    But as I started going through my own healing journey, God began to show me something that rocked my world. He revealed that my art wasn’t just some fun, extra hobby — it was at the very center of my calling. He wanted to use my art not just to bring me life and freedom, but to bring healing, influence, impact, and yes, even income.

    When I began to embrace that, everything started to shift. God brought my identity, my purpose, and my healing together into one beautiful package. It wasn’t an overnight transformation — there were plenty of bumps and potholes along the way — but each step drew me closer to Him and deeper into who He had created me to be.

    The Baltimore Wake-Up Call

    Early on, like so many artists, I thought success meant following all the latest strategies and hustling as hard as I could. I figured if I worked harder, did more shows, got into the best galleries, and won all the accolades, that would mean I had “made it.”

    I’ll never forget the time I went to the prestigious American Craft Council show in Baltimore. I had invested big — thousands of dollars in booth fees, hotels, travel, not to mention the countless hours of preparation. I went in thinking, “This is it! This is going to be my breakthrough show. I’ll make $15,000–$20,000 easy!”

    But instead of success, I hit a brick wall. I barely made enough to cover expenses. As I packed up and drove eight hours back to Asheville, I was furious, discouraged, and confused. I had a long, raw conversation with God on that drive home — what I like to call a “come to Jesus meeting.”

    Somewhere in the middle of my ranting and complaining, the Lord interrupted me. He asked me a question that would change everything: “Do you really want to know why this didn’t work?”

    When I finally said yes, He spoke so clearly: “Because you’re trying to build your art business in a way that I never designed for you.”

    Ouch. But oh, what a freeing revelation that was.

    The Power of His Plan

    God reminded me of what He had already spoken to my heart before I even launched out — that He wanted my studio to be a place of connection and encounter, and that He would bring clients to me if I stayed faithful in the studio.

    So, I went home and completely reworked my studio, turning it from a casual bohemian workspace into a professional fine art gallery. I invested money I didn’t have, trusted God every step, and prepared my space as an act of obedience.

    Just a few weeks later, a couple from Atlanta — who had originally planned to see me at that Baltimore show — drove all the way to my studio unannounced. They commissioned a piece on the spot, paid a $1,000 deposit, and left me speechless.

    In that moment, God made it crystal clear: His ways are higher than ours. When we walk in obedience, even when it doesn’t make sense, He opens doors we could never force open ourselves.

    Redefining Success God’s Way

    The world tells us success is all about numbers — sales, followers, fame, and fortune. But God? He measures success by faithfulness.

    1 Samuel 16:7 reminds us, “For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

    God isn’t looking at your Instagram stats or your bank account to measure your worth. He’s looking at your heart — at your willingness to say yes, to obey, to trust Him even when it doesn’t make sense.

    When you shift your mindset from striving to abiding, everything changes. John 15 paints the picture perfectly: “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.” Our job isn’t to force the fruit. Our job is to stay connected to Him, and fruit will naturally flow.

    Embrace the Unforced Rhythms of Grace

    The Message Bible beautifully calls it “the unforced rhythms of grace.” As artists, it’s so easy to get caught in the comparison trap. We see others selling out shows, getting huge commissions, landing big exhibitions — and we start to question, “Am I enough? Am I doing enough? Am I successful?”

    But comparison is the thief of joy. When you stop measuring your life by someone else’s highlight reel and start measuring by faithfulness to God’s voice, freedom comes. Peace comes. True joy comes.

    Be Faithful in the Pasture

    I love the story of David. Before he was king, before the victories and the songs, he was just a shepherd boy playing his harp in the fields. That secret place, the pasture, was where God shaped his heart. He learned intimacy before he ever stepped onto a public stage.

    Likewise, Bezalel in Exodus 31 was filled with the Spirit of God and skilled in all kinds of craftsmanship. God doesn’t just want your talent; He wants your heart. He anoints both — your hands and your heart — to carry out His purposes.

    Faithfulness Over Fame

    In the Kingdom, faithfulness always precedes fruitfulness. God isn’t calling you to be famous; He’s calling you to be faithful. Fame might come, but it’s never the goal — it’s simply a possible byproduct of a life rooted in Him.

    Matthew 6:33 reminds us, “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” The world’s system says, “Get all the things, then you’ll have peace.” But God says, “Seek Me first, and I’ll add everything you need.”

    Your Invitation to Yield

    Maybe today is your moment to pause and ask, “Lord, have I been building my art life on my own terms? Have I been chasing numbers instead of Your presence?”

    Friend, He’s inviting you into the deeper place — to lay down striving and pick up abiding, to yield your plans and receive His. And when you do, I promise, you’ll discover a life and art practice beyond what you could ever imagine.

    P.S. If you’re ready to step into this journey for real — to move from striving to thriving, from burnout to breakthrough — I’d love to invite you to check out my Foundations Course for artists. It’s a powerful, transformative discipleship journey designed to help you align your heart, renew your mind, and confidently walk out your unique calling as an artist in God’s Kingdom.

    Remember, my friend: You were created to thrive.