If God has our hearts, it will be expressed through our art.
Out of the heart, artists create.
Out of pure hearts, comes pure art.
Keep your heart pure for out of it are the important things of life. (Proverbs 4:23 NLV)
Monday, June 8, 2015
Monday, September 22, 2014
Silenced, Stagnant or Shining?
If the enemy can't influence you to perpetuate his ideas and his agenda through your art or your life, he will try to silence you or stop you from using your artistic gifts or talents, or doing anything that points others to God. The enemy wants to devour, and steal, kill and destroy your artistic gifts too! (1 Peter 5:8; John 10:10).
Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4).
Step up today, son or daughter of The Most High and shine on!
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Don't bury it - share it!
As long as creative and gifted Christian artists continue to bury their artistic talents, passions and dreams, art that truly inspires the heart to desire to know and worship the Master Creator and our Heavenly Father will continue to be rarely expressed and experienced.
Are you burying your gifts and talents, or are you using them for God's glory and purpose? God is worthy of our time, our talents, and our treasures. If He has your whole heart, He will have (or be expressed through) your gifts and talents as well.
"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Luke 12:34)
"For everything comes from Him and exists by His power and is intended for His glory. All glory to Him forever! Amen." (Romans 11:36)
“You are worthy, O Lord our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and they exist because You created what You pleased.” (Revelation 4:11)
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Can they tell?
While education and training are important, those who desire to bring radical change to our culture through God's light, love, healing, freedom, and joy need His power overflowing through us. If we desire to share all that Jesus offers, we have to spend time with Him, receive from Him, and then His power and light will be clearly seen above our education and training or lack thereof.
Can people tell you've spent time with Jesus?
Acts 4:13 (Amplified Bible) Now when they saw the boldness and unfettered eloquence of Peter and John and perceived that they were unlearned and untrained in the schools [common men with no educational advantages], they marveled; and they recognized that they had been with Jesus.
Can people tell you've spent time with Jesus?
Acts 4:13 (Amplified Bible) Now when they saw the boldness and unfettered eloquence of Peter and John and perceived that they were unlearned and untrained in the schools [common men with no educational advantages], they marveled; and they recognized that they had been with Jesus.
Tuesday, November 5, 2013
Pass the Dream Test
Character is always tested and proven before the fulfilling
of a God ordained dream or vision.
Psalm 105:19
Until the time came to fulfill his dreams, the Lord tested Joseph’s character.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
Discipline is a Good Word!
Discipline defined in the dictionary as: activity, exercise, or a regimen that develops or improves a skill; training; the rigor or training effect of experience, adversity, etc.
At the time, discipline isn't much fun. It always feels like it's going against the grain. Later, of course, it pays off handsomely, for it's the well trained who find themselves mature in their relationship with God. Hebrews 12:11 (The Message)
The art form of ballet is one of the most disciplined forms of dance. In order to really dance ballet well, it takes years of dedication and discipline in dance class, at the barre, stretching, learning terminology and various choreography combinations, rehearsing, etc. A good example of the result of years of disciplined commitment and training in the art form of ballet was clearly demonstrated in the recent performance of Ballet Magnificat's "Snow Queen" on tour here in Birmingham, Alabama. All of the dancers were wonderful (from the young to the old), and the dedication to their art form was inspiring to observe. It was quite amazing as well to witness the Artistic Director (Kathy Thibodeaux), after many years of dancing, still demonstrating her beautiful skills at a professional level. Her performance made it clearly evident that she has not become complacent in relying on how beautifully she could dance years ago, but instead her technique revealed that she has continued in the required disciplines to perform at this level. As a result, she is continuing to experience the joy of dancing and performing for the purpose of ministry, while also blessing many through her leadership and the continued use of her gifts.
Especially for dancers, in order to just simply maintain the level they acquired in their earlier years (much less grow and progress), there is an intentional and very
"disciplined" effort required. Furthermore, those who desire to dance professionally at any level and especially as a ballerina must exercise both discipline and commitment (often perserving through injuries as well as the disappointments of not being cast in particular roles or pieces). This is still true even for those who have a truly God-given gift in this area. I like using Ballet Magnificat as an example, because these dancers are not only disciplined in their art form of dance, but they are also disciplined in their study of God's Word. As members of a Christian ballet company, they are dedicated not only to their ballet training, but equally dedicated to growing as disciples of Christ.
In order to grow as a disciple and follower of Christ, we must exercise spiritual discipline as well. We need to establish and be devoted to the daily disciplines of prayer and the study of God's Word, along with cultivating a desire to live by what we have learned. Additionally, we need accountability, fellowship, and to be a part of consistently worshipping within the corporate body of Christ, in order to fully mature in Christ. It is the disciplined followers of Christ who grow into maturity as a Christian. We have all been given the gift of salvation through faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is the "gift" of God, not of works, and none of us can boast of having earned this gift.* However, there are many believers who remain as babes in Christ, because they have never moved beyond the basics of Christianity 101.*
Those of us who desire to use the gift of dance (or any artistic gift) to minister, must desire to be disciplined both spiritually and through training in our respective art forms.
Just as it is the well trained and "disciplined" believer who find themselves mature in their relationship with God, it is the well trained and "disciplined" artist who is able to display their beautiful talents and skills for all to enjoy. Just because someone has a God-given talent or gift, they do not automatically transform into an amazingly skilled artist, and, likewise, there are no "short cuts" to becoming a disciplined follower (disciple) of Christ either.
Becoming a mature artist requires discipline and becoming a mature believer, requires discipline.
Discipline is a good word!
*Ephesians 2:8-9 - God saved you by His grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.
*Hebrews 5:12-14 - You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God's word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn't know how to do what is right. Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong.
*2 Corinthians 13:11 - Dear brothers and sisters, I close my letter with these last words: Be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you.
*1 Timothy 4:8 - Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.
For more information on the ministry of Ballet Magnificat go to: www.balletmagnifcat.com.
At the time, discipline isn't much fun. It always feels like it's going against the grain. Later, of course, it pays off handsomely, for it's the well trained who find themselves mature in their relationship with God. Hebrews 12:11 (The Message)
The art form of ballet is one of the most disciplined forms of dance. In order to really dance ballet well, it takes years of dedication and discipline in dance class, at the barre, stretching, learning terminology and various choreography combinations, rehearsing, etc. A good example of the result of years of disciplined commitment and training in the art form of ballet was clearly demonstrated in the recent performance of Ballet Magnificat's "Snow Queen" on tour here in Birmingham, Alabama. All of the dancers were wonderful (from the young to the old), and the dedication to their art form was inspiring to observe. It was quite amazing as well to witness the Artistic Director (Kathy Thibodeaux), after many years of dancing, still demonstrating her beautiful skills at a professional level. Her performance made it clearly evident that she has not become complacent in relying on how beautifully she could dance years ago, but instead her technique revealed that she has continued in the required disciplines to perform at this level. As a result, she is continuing to experience the joy of dancing and performing for the purpose of ministry, while also blessing many through her leadership and the continued use of her gifts.
Especially for dancers, in order to just simply maintain the level they acquired in their earlier years (much less grow and progress), there is an intentional and very
"disciplined" effort required. Furthermore, those who desire to dance professionally at any level and especially as a ballerina must exercise both discipline and commitment (often perserving through injuries as well as the disappointments of not being cast in particular roles or pieces). This is still true even for those who have a truly God-given gift in this area. I like using Ballet Magnificat as an example, because these dancers are not only disciplined in their art form of dance, but they are also disciplined in their study of God's Word. As members of a Christian ballet company, they are dedicated not only to their ballet training, but equally dedicated to growing as disciples of Christ.
In order to grow as a disciple and follower of Christ, we must exercise spiritual discipline as well. We need to establish and be devoted to the daily disciplines of prayer and the study of God's Word, along with cultivating a desire to live by what we have learned. Additionally, we need accountability, fellowship, and to be a part of consistently worshipping within the corporate body of Christ, in order to fully mature in Christ. It is the disciplined followers of Christ who grow into maturity as a Christian. We have all been given the gift of salvation through faith in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. It is the "gift" of God, not of works, and none of us can boast of having earned this gift.* However, there are many believers who remain as babes in Christ, because they have never moved beyond the basics of Christianity 101.*
Those of us who desire to use the gift of dance (or any artistic gift) to minister, must desire to be disciplined both spiritually and through training in our respective art forms.
Just as it is the well trained and "disciplined" believer who find themselves mature in their relationship with God, it is the well trained and "disciplined" artist who is able to display their beautiful talents and skills for all to enjoy. Just because someone has a God-given talent or gift, they do not automatically transform into an amazingly skilled artist, and, likewise, there are no "short cuts" to becoming a disciplined follower (disciple) of Christ either.
Becoming a mature artist requires discipline and becoming a mature believer, requires discipline.
Discipline is a good word!
*Ephesians 2:8-9 - God saved you by His grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.
*Hebrews 5:12-14 - You have been believers so long now that you ought to be teaching others. Instead, you need someone to teach you again the basic things about God's word. You are like babies who need milk and cannot eat solid food. For someone who lives on milk is still an infant and doesn't know how to do what is right. Solid food is for those who are mature, who through training have the skill to recognize the difference between right and wrong.
*2 Corinthians 13:11 - Dear brothers and sisters, I close my letter with these last words: Be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then the God of love and peace will be with you.
*1 Timothy 4:8 - Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.
For more information on the ministry of Ballet Magnificat go to: www.balletmagnifcat.com.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Keeping It in Balance!
Matthew 28:19 - "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
Jesus did not say go make artists, musicians, singers, dancers, actors, athletes, etc. This is just to remind those of us who desire to use our gifts for God and His Kingdom not to get out of balance with first ourselves being a disciple & then being used (through our lifestyles, our time, our words, our gifts, etc.) to influence others to become disciples too.
Since Jesus said teach them to observe all that I commanded you, here are just a "few" reminders of His commands:
Mark 12:30-31 - You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength (ahead of loving dance, art, sports, etc.), and love your neighbor as yourself (the first and second greatest commands per Jesus).
Matthew 6:33 - But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
My paraphrase of this verse for artists: Seek and desire to use all that you are and all of your gifts for God's purpose and glory alone - for the sake of advancing His agenda and not your fame or for the sake of recognition and the applause of man, and seek to know the Lord intimately through time in prayer and His Word. As a result and by His grace, your entire life and all you create or participate in as an artist will be a reflection of His love and truth, and His dream (or dreams) for you will come to pass. (Interestingly, Matthew 6:32 - states that after "all these things" the gentiles seek - or in other words, those who do not know the Lord, worry and seek after getting their daily needs met (for food, shelter and clothing) and do not know how to trust God to meet these needs. As artists, who are also followers of Christ, we have to remember that, likewise, artists who do not know the Lord, seek after their own fame and glory through their God-given gifts, and this is not what God has called His sons and daughters to, but instead, we are to stay in tune with the Spirit's leading and direction and seek to please and honor Him with all of our gifts and talents.
1 Corinthians 10:31 - .....whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
Luke 9:23 - Then Jesus said to all - "Anyone who wants to follow Me must put aside his own desires and conveniences and carry his cross with him every day and keep close to Me!"
Jesus did not say go make artists, musicians, singers, dancers, actors, athletes, etc. This is just to remind those of us who desire to use our gifts for God and His Kingdom not to get out of balance with first ourselves being a disciple & then being used (through our lifestyles, our time, our words, our gifts, etc.) to influence others to become disciples too.
Since Jesus said teach them to observe all that I commanded you, here are just a "few" reminders of His commands:
Mark 12:30-31 - You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength (ahead of loving dance, art, sports, etc.), and love your neighbor as yourself (the first and second greatest commands per Jesus).
Matthew 6:33 - But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
My paraphrase of this verse for artists: Seek and desire to use all that you are and all of your gifts for God's purpose and glory alone - for the sake of advancing His agenda and not your fame or for the sake of recognition and the applause of man, and seek to know the Lord intimately through time in prayer and His Word. As a result and by His grace, your entire life and all you create or participate in as an artist will be a reflection of His love and truth, and His dream (or dreams) for you will come to pass. (Interestingly, Matthew 6:32 - states that after "all these things" the gentiles seek - or in other words, those who do not know the Lord, worry and seek after getting their daily needs met (for food, shelter and clothing) and do not know how to trust God to meet these needs. As artists, who are also followers of Christ, we have to remember that, likewise, artists who do not know the Lord, seek after their own fame and glory through their God-given gifts, and this is not what God has called His sons and daughters to, but instead, we are to stay in tune with the Spirit's leading and direction and seek to please and honor Him with all of our gifts and talents.
1 Corinthians 10:31 - .....whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
Luke 9:23 - Then Jesus said to all - "Anyone who wants to follow Me must put aside his own desires and conveniences and carry his cross with him every day and keep close to Me!"
Monday, October 7, 2013
Are we His glorious image in the earth?
We have to be willing to place our dreams on the altar again and again, remembering that, above any dream (or vision), God the Father is more concerned with us being molded into the image of His Son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
2 Corinthians 3:18 - "So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord - who is the Spirit - makes us more and more like Him as we are changed into His glorious image.
Sunday, October 6, 2013
Callings Require Commitment / Dreams Require Discipline
If you believe God has called you to bring glory to God in the arts, the continual challenge will be to remain just as committed and disciplined in your growth and maturity as a Christ follower, as you are to honing your skills artistically. In order to be salt and light in the places we are called to use our gifts, we must remain rooted and grounded in our beliefs and convictions that are based on the truth of the Bible, and every open door of opportunity must be bathed in prayer.
If we are following God's dream, we must remain disciplined in seeking Him first, and not chasing the dream first.
Friday, September 27, 2013
What is "Dance Ministry"?
Real dance "ministry" occurs when the presence of God overflows out of true worshiping dancers (John 4:23-24) who love the Lord God with all their hearts and have surrendered everything to Him. Dancers who are filled with the Holy Spirit and God's Word, are then able to minister to others out of the overflow of their hearts. We must first receive from God, and then can be used to minister to others. You cannot give out what you have not received yourself, and this is a daily receiving through our growth process in Christ, not just a one time event. It is not ministry if it is not having a spiritual or an eternal impact on those whose lives are connected to it or are influenced by it. There is a difference between a "dance performance" and a "dance ministry presentation". I like to use the term "presentation" because we are first presenting our praise and worship to the Lord, and then as well "presenting" it to others. Through a dance ministry piece, we are also "representing" Christ, as the presence of His Holy Spirit flows through vessels who are fully surrendered to Him.
(Mark 12:30; John 8:31: Ephesians 5:18; James 1:22)
(Mark 12:30; John 8:31: Ephesians 5:18; James 1:22)
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Misunderstood? Feel like a rare bird? Answering a strange calling?
Sometimes I feel like a rare bird. I feel misunderstood and I feel that I have sort of a "strange" (or not a mainstream) calling - answering a call to mentor, encourage, inspire, teach, and lead others to worship God through dance. Just think, Noah was misunderstood too - he was even made fun of and mocked we can be sure - however, he was obeying (or answering) the call to build an ark, even though there had never been any rain (Genesis 2:5; 6:13-14)?
Many of us may be answering a "call" that others do not understand or obeying a calling that seems "peculiar" or very different. However, as long as it is Biblically in line with the Word of God, it is more important for us to obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29). Some (even our own peers, friends, family, etc.) may not understand our calling, but we have to remember we will not give an answer to them for our obedience. Make sure that whatever He has said to you to do, you are doing it (John 2:5). Even the body of Christ sometimes is guilty of wanting Christ followers to fit into a "cookie-cutter" mold. Just like Martha wanted Mary to share the same "service" gift that she had, but Mary had to be obedient to "sit" as a worshiper at Jesus' feet - of course, we are all called to "sit" at Jesus feet and be worshipers and, at some point, we should all be actively "serving" in some capacity just as Martha too, but our gifts of service and our callings are different and unique to who we are as individuals. (The main point illustrated in Luke 10:38-42 is that our first priority before God is to love, adore and worship Him, and then serve out of the overflow of a heart of love and worship.) If we don't spend some time sitting at Jesus' feet, we will not know what He is calling us to. It is also true that through serving (or just beginning to serve in some different areas), we may discover our gifts and callings as well. You will sense God's presence, peace, grace, and strength when you are functioning in your God ordained calling or using the God-given gifts He placed within you. As my Pastor, Chris Hodges, has stated, when you are doing the thing that God has called you to do, it will be a "life giving" experience and will not be draining life and strength from you, and, for the most part, it will not seem like work. We just need to make sure we are not laying down or burying the God-given gifts, callings and passions, that God has uniquely planted within each one of us for His glory and purpose, in order to please or pacify the demands and requests of others, or to "conform" to their idea of what qualifies as ministry or serving God. Again, any calling, service, gift, or ministry should first honor God and His Word, and serve, bless, and/or minister to others in some capacity (1 Corinthians 10:31; 1 Peter 4:10).
If God has truly placed certain desires and callings within us, we are not to suppress them. On the contrary, we are to stir up those gifts and callings for His honor and His glory and to be a blessing to others as He leads us! (Romans 11:29; 1 Timothy 1:6)
When do you feel God's presence the most? When do feel the most alive to God in your spirit or in connection with the Father? Is it when you sing, write, paint, pray, play an instrument, you are serving the poor in your community, serving administratively at your church, serving your family, teaching, serving in the marketplace, ministering to physical needs, parenting, playing a particular sport, serving the elderly, counseling others, encouraging others, making others laugh, etc. etc. etc. - there are a wide variety of gifts and callings (Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-31). We need to be who God created us uniquely to be and do what God has called us uniquely to do! Stop comparing yourself and your gifts and your calling to others - you are His unique workmanship created in Christ Jesus to do good works (Ephesians 2:10).
(Quote from "Chariots of Fire" movie by Eric Liddell: "I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I feel His pleasure.")
I believe God gave me the gift of dance for a purpose. When I dance in praise & worship to God, I feel God's presence and His pleasure! Also, when I teach, choreograph, mentor and inspire others through the gift of dance, I feel the "life giving" presence of God!
Many of us may be answering a "call" that others do not understand or obeying a calling that seems "peculiar" or very different. However, as long as it is Biblically in line with the Word of God, it is more important for us to obey God rather than men (Acts 5:29). Some (even our own peers, friends, family, etc.) may not understand our calling, but we have to remember we will not give an answer to them for our obedience. Make sure that whatever He has said to you to do, you are doing it (John 2:5). Even the body of Christ sometimes is guilty of wanting Christ followers to fit into a "cookie-cutter" mold. Just like Martha wanted Mary to share the same "service" gift that she had, but Mary had to be obedient to "sit" as a worshiper at Jesus' feet - of course, we are all called to "sit" at Jesus feet and be worshipers and, at some point, we should all be actively "serving" in some capacity just as Martha too, but our gifts of service and our callings are different and unique to who we are as individuals. (The main point illustrated in Luke 10:38-42 is that our first priority before God is to love, adore and worship Him, and then serve out of the overflow of a heart of love and worship.) If we don't spend some time sitting at Jesus' feet, we will not know what He is calling us to. It is also true that through serving (or just beginning to serve in some different areas), we may discover our gifts and callings as well. You will sense God's presence, peace, grace, and strength when you are functioning in your God ordained calling or using the God-given gifts He placed within you. As my Pastor, Chris Hodges, has stated, when you are doing the thing that God has called you to do, it will be a "life giving" experience and will not be draining life and strength from you, and, for the most part, it will not seem like work. We just need to make sure we are not laying down or burying the God-given gifts, callings and passions, that God has uniquely planted within each one of us for His glory and purpose, in order to please or pacify the demands and requests of others, or to "conform" to their idea of what qualifies as ministry or serving God. Again, any calling, service, gift, or ministry should first honor God and His Word, and serve, bless, and/or minister to others in some capacity (1 Corinthians 10:31; 1 Peter 4:10).
If God has truly placed certain desires and callings within us, we are not to suppress them. On the contrary, we are to stir up those gifts and callings for His honor and His glory and to be a blessing to others as He leads us! (Romans 11:29; 1 Timothy 1:6)
When do you feel God's presence the most? When do feel the most alive to God in your spirit or in connection with the Father? Is it when you sing, write, paint, pray, play an instrument, you are serving the poor in your community, serving administratively at your church, serving your family, teaching, serving in the marketplace, ministering to physical needs, parenting, playing a particular sport, serving the elderly, counseling others, encouraging others, making others laugh, etc. etc. etc. - there are a wide variety of gifts and callings (Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-31). We need to be who God created us uniquely to be and do what God has called us uniquely to do! Stop comparing yourself and your gifts and your calling to others - you are His unique workmanship created in Christ Jesus to do good works (Ephesians 2:10).
(Quote from "Chariots of Fire" movie by Eric Liddell: "I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast. And when I run I feel His pleasure.")
I believe God gave me the gift of dance for a purpose. When I dance in praise & worship to God, I feel God's presence and His pleasure! Also, when I teach, choreograph, mentor and inspire others through the gift of dance, I feel the "life giving" presence of God!
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
The Need for More - for His Glory & His Kingdom
There is a need for "arts" and "dance" ministry both within the ministries of our churches and out among the culture today (especially dance - which so much of has been surrendered to the god of this world and many youth are being taken captive to his call in the arts arena). This is one of the kingdom areas that needs to be represented or come on earth as it is (and will be) in Heaven - to the praise, honor and glory of God. (I think we can all agree that there is certainly some stuff that needs to be "bound" and some stuff that needs to be "loosed" in the arts culture.) There might be less need for "dance" or "arts" related ministries in our churches, if those of us who belong to Christ, would simply dance, create, teach, choreograph, sing, act, write, draw, etc, to reflect that we belong to Christ wherever and whenever given the opportunity or a platform to do so. If we say we have surrendered "all", should not all our artistic gifts reflect this? Praying for more sons and daughters and Christ-following artists to awaken to their calling from God to use "all" their God-given gifts to be salt and light to the culture, instead of compromising to look just like the culture. Praying for "the church" (the members of the body of Christ, including pastors, leaders, teachers, studio owners, etc.) to also be a part of His kingdom coming in the arts and His will being done in this area too as it is (and will be) in Heaven.
I am fully aware that bringing restoration to the arts is not the "main thing" in our obedience to fulfilling the great commission - to share the message of salvation and make disciples of Christ (although the arts can be used as a tool to present the Truth of the gospel and to draw people into God's presence). However, I am wondering if God will say to those of us who possess artistic gifts, "Well done! You used all your gifts for my glory and my eternal purposes." This should challenge all of us to think about how God desires us to use our gifts and talents, and, as well, challenge those of us who have the resources and platforms to facilitate these gifts being used for kingdom purposes to consider if we are really doing all that God desires too?
I believe our gifts (which all come from The Creator of all things and the giver of every good gift) will be used in Heaven, and, if so, perhaps we should prepare accordingly by using them for His praise, honor and glory here on earth!
Sing like Jesus is listening, because He is...
Dance like Jesus is watching, because He is...
Draw, Paint, Sculpt like Jesus is observing, because He is...
Write like Jesus is reading, because He is...
Create, Act, Perform like Jesus is your audience, because He is...
Romans 11:36; Romans 12:1-2; 1 Peter 4:10-11; Revelation 4:11
Artists in The Bible (excerpt from the book, "The Heart of the Artist" by Rory Noland):
"Maybe I'm biased, but I think God has a special place in His heart for artists, because so many are mentioned in the Bible. Being an artist was one of the first occupations listed in the early days of the Old Testament, along with agriculture and industry (Genesis 4:21). There are several references to teams of musicians (Nehemiah 10:28-29; Psalm 150:3-5) and other artists (Exodus 31:2-6; 35:30-35). The worship team serving in the temple during David's reign was made up of 288 vocalists (1 Chronicles 25:7). One of the judgments made against Babylon in the book of Revelation was that life would be void of the richness that artists bring (18:22).
Several artists are mentioned by name throughout Scripture. We can't list all of them, so I'll just touch on a few. David was a skillful musician and songwriter (1 Samuel 16:18), someone whom God described as a man after God's own heart. Solomon wrote over one thousand songs (1 Kings 4:32). Kenaniah was a great vocalist and a song leader (1 Chronicles 15:22). There's a group of musicians in 1 Chronicles whom I call the singing percussionists. Their names were Asaph, Heman, and Ethan (15:16-19), and they were vocalists who kept time for everyone by playing the cymbals. Bezalel was cited as a very gifted visual artist (Exodus 35:30-33)."
Some examples of dancers in the Bible:
Miriam (the prophetess) led the other women in a victory dance (or a spontaneous dance of praise) after the children of Israel passed through the Red Sea (Exodus 15:19-20). The Israelite women danced at David's defeat of the Philistine giant, Goliath (1 Samuel 18:6). King David danced before the Lord with all his might while bringing the ark of the Lord in the to city of David (2 Samuel 6:14-16, 21).
I am fully aware that bringing restoration to the arts is not the "main thing" in our obedience to fulfilling the great commission - to share the message of salvation and make disciples of Christ (although the arts can be used as a tool to present the Truth of the gospel and to draw people into God's presence). However, I am wondering if God will say to those of us who possess artistic gifts, "Well done! You used all your gifts for my glory and my eternal purposes." This should challenge all of us to think about how God desires us to use our gifts and talents, and, as well, challenge those of us who have the resources and platforms to facilitate these gifts being used for kingdom purposes to consider if we are really doing all that God desires too?
I believe our gifts (which all come from The Creator of all things and the giver of every good gift) will be used in Heaven, and, if so, perhaps we should prepare accordingly by using them for His praise, honor and glory here on earth!
Sing like Jesus is listening, because He is...
Dance like Jesus is watching, because He is...
Draw, Paint, Sculpt like Jesus is observing, because He is...
Write like Jesus is reading, because He is...
Create, Act, Perform like Jesus is your audience, because He is...
Romans 11:36; Romans 12:1-2; 1 Peter 4:10-11; Revelation 4:11
Artists in The Bible (excerpt from the book, "The Heart of the Artist" by Rory Noland):
"Maybe I'm biased, but I think God has a special place in His heart for artists, because so many are mentioned in the Bible. Being an artist was one of the first occupations listed in the early days of the Old Testament, along with agriculture and industry (Genesis 4:21). There are several references to teams of musicians (Nehemiah 10:28-29; Psalm 150:3-5) and other artists (Exodus 31:2-6; 35:30-35). The worship team serving in the temple during David's reign was made up of 288 vocalists (1 Chronicles 25:7). One of the judgments made against Babylon in the book of Revelation was that life would be void of the richness that artists bring (18:22).
Several artists are mentioned by name throughout Scripture. We can't list all of them, so I'll just touch on a few. David was a skillful musician and songwriter (1 Samuel 16:18), someone whom God described as a man after God's own heart. Solomon wrote over one thousand songs (1 Kings 4:32). Kenaniah was a great vocalist and a song leader (1 Chronicles 15:22). There's a group of musicians in 1 Chronicles whom I call the singing percussionists. Their names were Asaph, Heman, and Ethan (15:16-19), and they were vocalists who kept time for everyone by playing the cymbals. Bezalel was cited as a very gifted visual artist (Exodus 35:30-33)."
Some examples of dancers in the Bible:
Miriam (the prophetess) led the other women in a victory dance (or a spontaneous dance of praise) after the children of Israel passed through the Red Sea (Exodus 15:19-20). The Israelite women danced at David's defeat of the Philistine giant, Goliath (1 Samuel 18:6). King David danced before the Lord with all his might while bringing the ark of the Lord in the to city of David (2 Samuel 6:14-16, 21).
Friday, February 22, 2013
THE BIG DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WORSHIP & PERFORMANCE
There is a big difference between worship and performance, and worshipers and performers. Performance brings attention to people and their gifts and talents. Worship brings attention to God and His power and love! You will know you've encountered God's presence in a "worship" service when you are more overtaken by the power and love of God than the display of talent by people. Worshipers create an atmosphere where God's Spirit is experienced and hearts are ministered to. Performers create an atmosphere of entertainment and/or excitement, and while it may be enjoyable and emotionally thrilling, there is no spiritual or eternal purpose.
Before we step out to minister using our gifts and talents, lets make sure we've personally soaked in God's Spirit through personal worship, studying His Word, and through prayer. Then the result will be the natural overflow of God's Spirit flowing through us and not merely a display of talent or skill. We can only give what we have received.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to wait and worship in Your presence. Fill me up with Your love, Your power, and Your Spirit until Your fire consumes all that is not of You. May only Your glory be on display.
Not to us O Lord, but to You and Your name alone be glory. Amen (Psalm 115:1)
Before we step out to minister using our gifts and talents, lets make sure we've personally soaked in God's Spirit through personal worship, studying His Word, and through prayer. Then the result will be the natural overflow of God's Spirit flowing through us and not merely a display of talent or skill. We can only give what we have received.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to wait and worship in Your presence. Fill me up with Your love, Your power, and Your Spirit until Your fire consumes all that is not of You. May only Your glory be on display.
Not to us O Lord, but to You and Your name alone be glory. Amen (Psalm 115:1)
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Artists Need Outlets
All artists need outlets to express their art form. Artists also need the right environments for their creativity and their artistic gifts and talents to thrive and grow.
This is true for every living thing - including people, plants, etc.
Do you have an outlet for your art form and are you in the right environment for your artistic and creative giftings to be expressed, thrive, and grow? Are you as an individual surrounding yourself in the right environment to grow spiritually as well?
This is true for every living thing - including people, plants, etc.
Do you have an outlet for your art form and are you in the right environment for your artistic and creative giftings to be expressed, thrive, and grow? Are you as an individual surrounding yourself in the right environment to grow spiritually as well?
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Hold Fast to Your Dreams
Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is a broken-winged bird that cannot fly.
Hold fast to dreams, for when dreams go, life is a barren field frozen with snow.
Hold fast to dreams, for when dreams go, life is a barren field frozen with snow.
Do we forsake our dreams because hope has been deferred? To desire is to open our hearts to the possibility of pain, to shut down our hearts is to die altogether. The full proverb reads this way: "Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but when dreams come true, there is life and joy." *
(Excerpt above taken from John Eldredge's book, "Desire" -
John Eldredge is one of my favorite authors.)
*Proverbs 13:12
*Proverbs 13:12
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Why not?
Why shouldn't God be proclaimed through the arts - through dance, music, drama, etc.? Since He is the author and creator of all things, shouldn't those of us who say He is our all, our Savior, our Lord, be devoting all of our gifts for His glory and purpose?
Why then do we see so little in our culture through the arts that actually proclaims who God is and points our culture to God?
Why is God not speaking more today through the arts? Could it be that He is waiting on us to use the gifts He has given to us for this purpose, but we are too caught up in making sure that our artistic endeavors please and pacify the culture, rather than being a voice for God to the culture?
Why not allow God to use you and every gift He has given you for His purpose and for His glory today?
Why not allow God to use your art, your dance, your voice to draw others to God?
....whatever you do, do all for the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31)
All things were created through Him and for Him. (Colossians 1:16b)
Why then do we see so little in our culture through the arts that actually proclaims who God is and points our culture to God?
Why is God not speaking more today through the arts? Could it be that He is waiting on us to use the gifts He has given to us for this purpose, but we are too caught up in making sure that our artistic endeavors please and pacify the culture, rather than being a voice for God to the culture?
Why not allow God to use you and every gift He has given you for His purpose and for His glory today?
Why not allow God to use your art, your dance, your voice to draw others to God?
....whatever you do, do all for the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31)
All things were created through Him and for Him. (Colossians 1:16b)
Monday, June 11, 2012
Follow the Father's Invitation
Whatever your particular calling, you are meant to grace the world with your dance, to follow the lead of Jesus wherever He leads you. He will lead you first into Himself; and then, with Him, He will lead you into the world that He loves and needs you to love. It is by Invitation. Quote taken from "Captivating" by John & Stasi Eldredge
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Are You a True Worshiper?
God is seeking worshipers, not singers, dancers, musicians, etc. but worshipers who worship with their lives - daily & consistently thru prayer, fellowship, studying and obeying God's Word - worshiping in the "valley" and difficult experiences of life, as well as on the "mountaintop" (when all is going well). Often, we do not know if we are a true worshiper until our faith has been tested, and we pass the test by still choosing to worship God irregardless of our circumstances. Real worshipers desire for you to worship God with them, but they will still worship God even if no one else is worshiping with them. Worship is not emotionalism either (even though we can experience God's presence touching our emotions and worship does evoke outward expressions -- from being still, bowing down, to shedding a tear, to lifting your hands, singing, dancing, etc.)! Real worship in spirit and truth - is based in really knowing The Truth - knowing Jesus intimately thru His Word. Real worship in spirit is the opposite of "in the flesh" or just for show or for performance for others; instead, it is birthed out of walking in the spirit, through a close, personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
John 4:23-24
But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.
John 4:23-24
But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshipers. God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.
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