• Seeing God as Artist First, Changes Everything

    ISSUE #033

    Have you ever noticed the very first thing God chose to reveal about Himself in Scripture? Before Redeemer, before King, before Shepherd—He’s Creator. “In the beginning, God created…” (Genesis 1:1). The moment you start to see Him that way—as the ultimate Artist—everything shifts. Suddenly, your art, your story, your process, even your struggles, take on sacred meaning. You’re not just trying to make something beautiful—you’re participating in the divine rhythm of creation itself.

    This week, I want to help you rediscover your art as an invitation to walk with the Artist Himself. You are the clay in His hands, His masterpiece in progress, and His chosen co-creator on the earth. When you create with Him, not just for Him, you start to live from a place of rest, partnership, and divine inspiration. And friend, that’s where everything begins to thrive.

    In His love and creativity,
    Matt Tommey

    PS – Don’t miss all the great artist mentoring resources we have available for you. Click here to find out more.


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


    Painting God’s Glory

    This week, meet Texas artist Phil Bob Borman, whose luminous skies and joyful spirit capture the wonder of God’s creation. From cowboy roots to Kingdom vision, Phil Bob paints as an act of worship—each cloud and color declaring the glory of the Creator. READ MORE

    CONNECT

    Scripture: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”Genesis 1:1 (NIV)

    Before anything else, God reveals Himself as an Artist. Every sunrise, every snowflake, every person is the overflow of His creative heart. And when you see Him that way, you begin to recognize that creativity isn’t optional—it’s the essence of His Kingdom. He still loves to create through you.

    Prayer:
    Father, thank You for showing Yourself as the ultimate Artist. Open my eyes to see Your fingerprints in my life and through my hands. Teach me to co-create with You—shaping beauty, revealing truth, and reflecting Your glory in the earth. Amen.

    Action Step:
    Before you begin your next creative session, pause and simply say, “Holy Spirit, let’s create together.” Then wait—listen—and let Him lead.


    CLARIFY

    You’re not random. You’re a divinely designed masterpiece in progress. The Potter is still shaping you, adding layers of color and texture through every season—joys, challenges, delays, and breakthroughs alike.

    Take a few moments this week to reflect: What “layer” is God painting in your life right now? Is He refining patience, stirring courage, or inviting new freedom? Naming it helps you cooperate with His brushstrokes.

    Action Step:
    Write down one area where you sense God is currently forming something in you. Ask Him, “How can I agree with what You’re creating in me this week?”


    CREATE

    You were never meant to create for God in isolation, but with God in collaboration. As Ephesians 2:10 reminds us, you are His workmanship—literally His poem. Every time you paint, sculpt, stitch, compose, or build, you’re echoing the creative voice of Heaven.

    Don’t overcomplicate it—simply start by inviting Him in. When you yield your process to His presence, your art becomes infused with eternal purpose.

    Studio Action Step:
    Before you pick up your brush or tool, ask the Lord, “What are You saying today through what I create?” Then create from that flow—not performance, but partnership.


    CULTIVATE

    Performance says, “I need to earn God’s approval.” Partnership says, “I’m already loved, so I can freely create.” The difference is everything. When you operate from God’s love, perfectionism loses its grip, and peace takes its place.

    In the marketplace, this posture shows up as confidence and authenticity. Collectors, followers, and patrons are drawn to peace-filled artists who create with joy rather than striving.

    Outreach Action Step:
    This week, share one of your artworks on social media with a short reflection about how creating with God changes the way you work. Use your story to invite others into His love.


    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


    WATCH & LISTEN

    Episode: 3 Ways Seeing God as an Artist Changes Everything

    LISTEN ON APPLEPODCAST

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    In this week’s episode, I unpack what happens when you start seeing God as an Artist first—and how that revelation changes everything about your art, your story, and your relationship with Him. You’ll learn:

    • Why Genesis 1:1 is the foundation for your creative calling
    • How to recognize your life as God’s masterpiece in progress
    • What it means to co-create with Him rather than perform for Him
    • How to create from love, not striving

    Listen now and rediscover the beauty of creating with the Creator Himself.


    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    If you’ve ever wished you could sit down with me and ask for specific mentoring—anytime, anywhere—that’s exactly why I created UncleMatt.ai.

    Think of it as your personal creative companion that helps you integrate faith, art, and business all in one place. Whether you’re struggling to price your work, get clarity on your next step, or find spiritual encouragement, UncleMatt offers biblically grounded wisdom and practical guidance—instantly.

    Pro Tip:
    Try asking, “How can I invite the Holy Spirit into my creative process?” or “What does God’s Word say about creativity and calling?” You’ll be amazed how specific the insight can be.

    👉 Visit UncleMatt.ai and start co-creating with confidence.


    WORSHIP

    This week’s worship song, “Canvas and Clay,” captures the essence of Genesis 1:1 and Isaiah 64:8—God as the ultimate Artist, and us as His masterpiece in progress. Every lyric echoes the truth that we are shaped, molded, and refined by His creative hand. When Pat Barrett sings, “You’re the artist and the potter, I’m the canvas and the clay,” it’s a reminder that nothing in our journey is wasted. The brushstrokes of joy, the colors of struggle, even the messy middle—all are part of the beauty He’s forming. As you listen, let this song draw you back to rest in His artistry and trust that the Creator who began a good work in you will bring it to completion.


    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.

  • The Flow of Co-Creating with God in Your Art

    ISSUE #032

    Have you ever wondered what it actually looks like to co-create with God, not just dedicate your art to Him, but truly sense His presence leading you as you create? I used to think of my art as something I did for God. But over time, I realized He was inviting me to do it with Him. That shift changed everything. My studio became more than a workspace—it became a sanctuary where Heaven and earth meet.

    This week, we’re exploring what I call “The Flow of Co-Creation”—five simple steps that help you move from striving to abiding: Intimacy, Revelation, Agreement, Response, and Incarnation. My prayer is that as you read this, you’ll feel a fresh awareness of His presence in your creative process. 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

    PS – Don’t miss all the great artist mentoring resources we have available for you. Click here to find out more.


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


    Capturing God’s Glory Through the Lens

    This week, meet Randall Evans, a fine art photographer from Kentucky whose breathtaking landscapes reflect the peace and presence of God in creation. From misty ridges to ocean waves, Randall’s camera reveals the wonder of the Creator’s design—reminding us that beauty itself is a form of divine invitation to slow down, look closer, and worship. READ MORE

    CONNECT

    Scripture: “Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.”John 15:4–5 (NIV)

    Everything meaningful in your creative life flows out of intimacy with God. Before you pick up a brush, step behind a camera, or sit at your easel, pause and remember—He’s already there. You don’t have to invite Him to your studio; He lives in you. As you abide in His presence, creative ideas flow like living water, and fear gives way to freedom.

    Prayer:
    Lord, thank You for being the Vine that sustains my creativity. I yield to Your Spirit today—teach me to listen, flow, and trust as we create together. Let every mark, color, and form be a reflection of Your heart through my hands.
    In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Action Step:
    Before every creative session this week, pause for one minute of stillness. Breathe deeply and say aloud, “Holy Spirit, I yield to You.” Watch how the atmosphere shifts as you acknowledge His presence.


    CLARIFY

    When it comes to your creative journey, alignment always precedes acceleration. Many artists struggle because they separate their “studio life” from their “spiritual life.” But in the Kingdom, there’s no divide—your creativity is part of your worship. God wants to flow through your art, not just bless it from afar.

    Take a few minutes to clarify what co-creating with God looks like for you this week. Where might you need to say yes to His nudges instead of letting fear or perfectionism take over? Remember, faith says “yes” even when the outcome is unclear.

    Action Step:
    In your journal or sketchbook, write down one creative idea or project you sense God inviting you into—but you’ve hesitated on. Circle it, pray over it, and take one small step of obedience this week.


    CREATE

    Co-creation isn’t just spiritual—it’s deeply practical. Exodus 31 describes Bezalel as being “filled with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in all kinds of crafts.” That’s what it looks like to be both filled and skilled. Excellence isn’t about perfection—it’s about partnership.

    Create in an atmosphere that welcomes God’s movement. Put on worship music, light a candle, or hang Scripture near your workspace. Keep a sketchbook nearby for divine ideas and impressions. As you grow in both skill and sensitivity, your creative process becomes a living collaboration with the Creator.

    Action Step:
    Dedicate a corner of your home or studio as your “sacred creative space.” Keep it clean, inspiring, and ready. When you enter, whisper, “This is our space, Lord—let’s create together.”


    CULTIVATE

    The final stage of co-creation is incarnation—when your ideas and God’s inspiration take tangible form. Every painting, sculpture, or design you make becomes a vessel for His glory—a table of encounter where others can experience His presence through your work.

    Your art doesn’t have to preach to carry His message. The Spirit within you naturally flows through your colors, textures, and themes. Release what you create, trusting God to use it in ways you may never see.

    Action Step:
    This week, share one completed artwork—online or in person—and tell a brief story about how God met you during the process. You never know whose heart He might touch through your obedience.


    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


    WATCH & LISTEN

    Episode: 5 Steps to Creating Your Art with God

    LISTEN ON APPLEPODCAST

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    This week’s episode dives deep into the five steps of co-creating with God: Intimacy, Revelation, Agreement, Response, and Incarnation. Matt shares how learning to assume connection with the Holy Spirit transforms the way you create—no more striving, no more fear, just flow.

    Hear how God wants to partner with you daily in your art, turning your studio into a sanctuary and your work into an encounter for others.

    Key Takeaway:
    You’re not creating for God—you’re creating with Him. When you embrace that truth, your art becomes a doorway for His presence to touch the world.


    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    If you’ve ever wished you could get real-time, Spirit-led guidance from me—on creativity, business, or faith—you’re going to love UncleMatt.ai.

    This new AI-powered tool helps artists clarify vision, overcome fear, renew their minds, and stay spiritually grounded while pursuing their art. It’s not replacing the Holy Spirit—it’s pointing you back to Him. Think of it as your creative coach, biblical encourager, and business advisor all in one place—available 24/7.

    👉 Try UncleMatt.ai today and start receiving Holy Spirit–centered guidance as you create, plan, and grow.


    WORSHIP

    There’s something powerful that happens when Heaven touches earth—when the wind of the Spirit meets the fire of our devotion. “Where Wind Meets Fire” captures that sacred collision perfectly. It’s a song about awakening, co-laboring, and staying in step with the Holy Spirit.

    As you listen this week, let the lyrics draw you back to that place of holy surrender and divine partnership. Just like in the studio, this is where creativity and presence meet—where your yes becomes the spark God breathes on.



    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.

  • You’re Not Behind: The Hidden Purposes in God’s Delays

    ISSUE #031

    Have you ever felt like God hit the pause button on your creative journey? Maybe the doors you were praying for didn’t open, or opportunities you thought were certain slipped through your fingers. If so, I want to remind you of a powerful truth today: you’re not behind—you’re being refined.

    What we often mistake as God’s delays are actually His divine training ground. He’s not punishing you; He’s preparing you. In these “slow” seasons, God is expanding your capacity—your endurance, your faith, and your readiness—to carry more of what He has planned for your future.

    Remember, James 1:2-4 (NLT) says “When troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.”

    In this week’s issue, we’ll explore how to trust God’s timing, see His purpose in the waiting, and discover peace right in the middle of process.

    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

    PS – Don’t miss all the great artist mentoring resources we have available for you. Click here to find out more.


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


    Quilting the Word: Stories of Faith in Fabric

    This week, meet Kristy Moeller Ottinger, a folk-art quilter whose intricate, prayer-filled works bring Bible stories to life. Each bead and button she stitches carries a prayer, turning her creative process into an act of worship. From local shows to museum exhibitions, Kristy’s art quilts are not just works of fabric—they’re woven testimonies of faith, prayer, and perseverance. READ MORE

    CONNECT

    Scripture: Galatians 6:9 (NIV) — “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

    Waiting seasons can feel lonely, but they’re never wasted. God uses delay to deepen trust, not discourage it. What looks like a stall in progress is often a setup for strength. Like a seed growing underground, He’s forming your character in hidden places before bringing the fruit into view.

    Prayer:
    Father, thank You for loving me enough to slow me down. Teach me to see delay as development and waiting as worship. Help me trust Your timing, even when I don’t understand it. Let endurance have its full work in me so I can walk faithfully in all You’ve prepared. In Jesus’ name, amen.

    Action Step:
    Spend 10 quiet minutes reflecting on a past “delay” that turned into blessing. Write it down and thank God for how He used it to prepare you.


    CLARIFY

    Delays can feel like dead ends when we’re focused on results instead of relationship. But every closed door, postponed opportunity, and quiet season has a reason behind it. Sometimes God withholds a “good” thing to protect you from something that’s not His best thing.

    Ask yourself this week: What is God protecting or preparing me for right now? His timing isn’t slow—it’s strategic. The goal isn’t to reach your destination faster, but to arrive stronger, wiser, and ready to stay in the place He’s called you to.

    Action Step:
    Look at your current season and identify one area where you sense God saying, “Not yet.” Choose to trust Him there. Write out your prayer of surrender in your journal.


    CREATE

    When life slows down, your studio becomes sacred ground. God often uses creative time to align your heart with His. Maybe He’s teaching you to release control, to wait for fresh inspiration, or to trust that He’s guiding your next idea.

    Even when progress feels invisible, keep showing up. Like spiritual “weight training,” each day of obedience builds strength in your creative soul. The art you create in hidden seasons carries a depth that can’t be faked—it’s formed in fire and faith.

    Studio Action Step:
    Before you create this week, pray: “Holy Spirit, align my heart with Yours. Help me c


    CULTIVATE

    God’s delays often expand not just your art, but your ability to influence others. As He refines you, He also refines how you show up for your audience. Authentic stories of waiting, faith, and perseverance connect deeply with people who need hope.

    Share your process honestly. Tell your collectors, followers, or creative friends what God is teaching you in the “in-between.” Vulnerability builds bridges faster than perfection ever could.

    Outreach Action Step:
    Write one short social post or email to your audience this week titled, “What I’m Learning in the Waiting.” Let your story encourage someone else who feels delayed but is actually right on time.


    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


    WATCH & LISTEN

    Episode: Why God’s Delays are Actually God’s Design

    LISTEN ON APPLEPODCAST

    LISTEN ON SPOTIFY

    In this week’s podcast, we dive into one of the most freeing truths for Christian artists: you’re not behind in God’s plan. What feels like delay is actually design. You’ll learn four powerful ways God uses waiting seasons to grow your endurance, protect you from wrong opportunities, align your heart with His, and weave your story into His bigger Kingdom narrative.

    Key Takeaway: Delays are not detours—they’re divine development. God’s timing is always on time.


    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    Ever wish you had a mentor to talk through your creative struggles anytime, day or night? Now you do. UncleMatt.ai is your 24/7 creative companion—built from decades of my teaching and Kingdom insight to help artists like you thrive spiritually, creatively, and professionally.

    Ask UncleMatt about finding peace in delay, renewing your mind, setting artistic goals, or overcoming creative blocks—it’s all there, personalized for your journey.

    👉 Discover UncleMatt.ai


    WORSHIP

    If you’ve ever questioned God’s timing, this song will speak straight to your heart. “Always On Time” is a powerful reminder that even when we can’t see what God is doing, He’s never late and never distant. Every lyric carries the assurance that His delays are not denials—they’re divine precision. As you listen this week, let the melody quiet your striving and fill your studio with renewed trust that the One who called you is faithful to complete what He began.



    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.

  • Trusting God’s Plan in Your Creative Journey

    ISSUE #028

    Have you ever felt like God gave you this creative gift but forgot to include the roadmap? You show up, you pray, you work hard—but nothing seems to move. You start wondering if maybe you misheard Him or missed your moment. Friend, I’ve been there. Years ago, I remember that same ache, asking God why the results didn’t match the effort. What I didn’t realize back then was that He wasn’t ignoring me; He was forming me.

    The truth is, trusting God’s plan as an artist is rarely about instant clarity—it’s about faithful consistency. It’s about believing that His timing and process are perfect, even when ours feels painfully slow. This week, I want to encourage you to embrace that process and allow God to build not only your art career but also your character, dependence, and peace. The waiting season is never wasted when your heart is anchored in Him.

    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

    PS – I’m super excited to let you know we’re releasing our new UncleMatt.ai mentoring tool for artists today. Find out more.


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


    Painting the Seen & Unseen Beauty of God’s Creation

    This week, our featured artist is Helen Read who sees her art not only as a way to capture the beauty of God’s creation, but as a spiritual language of communion with her Creator. Read more…

    CONNECT

    Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) — “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take.”

    When life feels uncertain, trust becomes the brushstroke that shapes everything. God invites you to surrender your need to understand and simply walk with Him. Even when you can’t see what He’s doing, He’s weaving beauty behind the scenes. The creative process mirrors this truth—every unfinished canvas is full of hidden potential, waiting for the next stroke of His guidance.

    Prayer:
    Father, I choose to trust You in the places I don’t yet understand. Help me release my need to control outcomes and rest in the confidence that You are working all things together for my good. Align my creativity with Your peace and purpose. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

    Action Step: Take five minutes today to quiet your mind and simply invite the Holy Spirit into your creative process. Write down one area where you need to trust His timing.


    CLARIFY

    When momentum slows or opportunities feel distant, clarity begins by asking: “What is mine to do today?” Not tomorrow. Not next year. Today. God rarely shows the whole roadmap because He’s inviting you to walk in daily dependence, one obedient step at a time.

    Reflect on what God has already said—through Scripture, promises, or prophetic words. Which of those truths is He asking you to act on right now? Let that become your anchor.

    Action Step: Write a short “Today’s Focus” statement in your journal. Keep it simple: “Today, I will ___ in faith.” Then, commit to doing just that one thing.


    CREATE

    Every brushstroke of faith matters, even when no one sees it. The seasons that feel hidden are often the most formative. Remember David tending sheep after his anointing or Bezalel quietly preparing before building the tabernacle. God is using your studio time to build not just your art, but your trust.

    Instead of striving for inspiration, create in obedience. Let your art become a living “yes” to God’s invitation. Fruitfulness always follows faithfulness.

    Studio Action Step: Choose one unfinished pie


    CULTIVATE

    Faithfulness in your relationships mirrors faithfulness in your calling. While you’re trusting God’s unseen plan, don’t forget to nurture the people He’s already placed in your world—your collectors, followers, and creative friends. Ministry often looks like presence more than performance.

    Be generous with encouragement. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses or stories of how God is working in your creative life. You never know who’s watching, waiting for a reminder that God is still faithful.

    Outreach Action Step: Send a voice message, DM, or handwritten note to one person who’s supported your art. Thank them and speak a short blessing over their life.


    WATCH & LISTEN

    Listen on ApplePodcast

    Listen on Spotify

    Have you ever wondered if you missed God’s plan for your life? In this week’s episode, I share the story of how God used a season of frustration to form me into the artist I am today.

    You’ll learn three powerful truths for trusting His timing, even when progress seems invisible—and how to build a daily rhythm of faith through the Core4 Focus Framework™.


    TECH TIP FOR THRIVING

    The brand-new UncleMatt.ai is here—a personal creative companion built from my 30 years of teaching and mentoring artists. Think of it as having me in your pocket 24/7, ready to help you refocus on God’s plan, renew your mind, and take confident next steps in your art and business.

    Ask it about pricing your art, creative blocks, renewing your mind, or biblical principles for thriving as a Christian artist—it’s all in there. Designed for Spirit-led artists who want wisdom, not overwhelm.

    👉 Find Out More & Enroll Today!


    WORSHIP

    When you can’t see what God is doing, worship is the bridge that carries you forward. This song perfectly captures the surrender that comes when we trade control for trust. Let it be your soundtrack in the studio this week.


    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.