Shape Life As An Artist

As God’s People we are artists. 

Biblically speaking, it is an irrefutable fact concerning who you are made to be.

We are designed as stewards and co-creators for the world around us.

With our words, actions, finances, and time, we take what is before us and fashion them further. Or even fashion something original.

Even secular anthropology recognizes how – in each area of our lives – we are shaping new things: in our work, in our play, through daily choices at home, in our relationships… 

Recognizing ourselves as artists can bring clarity. As we think about creating Kingdom beauty in our lives and in our homes, applying principles of artistry can simplify next steps.

Let us here defer to a recognized expert: Michelangelo.

The sculpture is already complete within the marble block,
before I start my work. It is already there,
I just have to chisel away the superfluous material.
– Michelangelo

Oversimplification? Maybe. But it is profoundly helpful to have a simplified approach.

To create something beautiful in any realm of life – especially our homes – we need to remove what isn’t working. Chip away at the superfluous material of our lives. Purge what is not beautiful according to God.

Here is Scripture citing the same principle:

…whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just,
whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable
– if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise –
dwell on these things.
– Philippians 4:8

In these times, be careful what you let in. Now more than ever your home’s culture is the heart of all other areas in your life – for you, and for your family.

Guard your heart above all else, for it is the source of life.
– Proverbs 4:23

• Ask God what needs to be chipped away for His idea of beauty to emerge.
• Listen long enough to hear His response.
• Ask Him to guide your hand as you "chip away".

And the God of peace will be with you.