Creativity as prayer; how to listen to God's voice through art
As an artist, I've come to understand that my art is not just a means of expression; it's a beautiful opportunity for prayer... for open dialogue with the Father about my life, my heart, my purpose. In those quiet moments when I pick up a brush or pen, I’m connecting with His heart… I’m talking about my day, seeking His thoughts.. and a beautiful exchange takes place.
Throughout my years of seeking God, I’ve learnt there are many ways you can use creativity as prayer. But here are five that have resonated with me most:
1. Surrender: The first step to embracing creativity as prayer is surrender. I sit down, close my eyes, choose to let go of preconceived notions and invite the Holy Spirit to create with me. Surrender at it’s core is really just faith in action, and God deeply desires and loves it when we take a step back and let Him do the work!
2. Meditate on Scripture: The Psalms talk about His word being a ‘lamp to our feet and a light to our path..’ and I have found this to be true again and again in my creating process! Before I start a new project, I often turn to the Bible. I meditate on verses that resonate with me and allow the little God promptings to guide my thoughts and to ground me when I feel unsure or afarid.
3. Embrace the Process: Guys! Embracing the process will literally change your life! It will remove the sense of failure, it will help you love the imperfections and it will show you that each stroke, each word, is a step closer to God's heart for you. The layers of your journey will be revealed over time, and they will be so worth it!
4. Creating a Secret Place: The secret to listening to God's voice through art is found in knowing His voice even without art. I have found that creating a space where you can retreat from the normal hustle of life, and connect with God is SO important. Open your BIble, pray, worship, and tune your heart and hear to Him.
5. Let Your Heart Speak: Don’t hold back my friends! If you need to cry or weep or laugh - do it! Bleed your heart out onto paper and pour your emotions into your creative work, trusting that God can use it as a vessel for His word to go forth. Regardless of your form or the type of art you do.. He can and will do it!
