I played piano as a child and teen. My piano instructor encouraged me to study piano in college. I didn’t. I had an itch deep inside that couldn’t be reached by practicing, memorizing, and technically perfecting the music before me. There I would sit, emotions bubbling inside of me, staring at the keys, wanting to express what was within, but unable to. I was a talented technician, but my artist soul longed to create.
Caught up in the years of a new marriage, a budding career, and then a growing family, the need to create was drowned out by the more important needs of the day. The enemy of our soul would love to keep artists distracted by the cares of the world. He would be quite content if artists never found the time or energy to create the beauty that reflects heaven or the One who created the earth.
I began my visual art journey as a quilter. It wasn’t until I started creating pieces that did not fit a traditional methodology or form that I began the break from being a talented technician. Still I struggled with the artist title. A gallery owner would call me an artist. I would choke on the word. Names and titles are important in the Kingdom of God. The father of lies knows that and will keep us from discovering who we were created to be. He will taint the very words that hint at our God-given talent and calling. He will use family members, respected teachers, friends, and other loved ones to distort, destroy or misdirect our identity.
God has another plan….
- Paul tells us that we are not to be ignorant of the enemy’s schemes.
- Jesus tells us that in this life we will have tribulations, but He overcomes.
- Our Creator says you are fearfully and wonderfully made.
- Our Heavenly Father calls us to come home to the very person He created us to be.
- Holy Spirit reminds us of His promise for a future and a hope.
What longing do you have deep within that is as yet untouched? How do you fill in the blank, “If I could, I would __________.”? Consider the sign posts, the longings, the dreams, and pictures of your perfect day/week/year.
Then sit with Father who created you, Jesus who redeemed you, and Holy Spirit who speaks to you and comforts you. Ask them what name they gave you. Ask them what they were thinking the day they formed you in your mother’s womb. You will feel the Lover of your soul welcome you to His chest.
In His embrace, you will hear His heart beating for you. He calls you “Beloved”. He names you “Son/Daughter”. He whispers His plans and His purposes for you.
I know He has great things in store for you Child of the Most High God.
I promise!
“Garden of Promises” is a newly completed painting. 24″x18″ Available here.