“See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills – to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of crafts.” (Exodus 31:2-5)
Creativity. Imagine yourself sitting on a boulder by the sea, observing God creating the world. What an experience that would be! He is such a magnificent, imaginative and amazing Creator. The artistic gifts He exhibits through His mountains, lakes, oceans, flowers, skies, trees, animals, music, and on and on are exquisite. His eye for color and shapes and coordinating everything to bring awesome, mind-boggling beauty, is infinite. And the exciting news is that He imparts the gifts of creativity to us.
In the scripture above we see that He chose Bezalel, filled him with His Spirit, gave him wisdom, understanding, knowledge and all kinds of skills to make artistic designs….and all kinds of crafts. Amazing. And Bezalel was not the only one chosen to enjoy and use those skills. God has given all of us abilities and talents to use in our creativity. What gifts do you have? Art, painting, writing, music, woodworking, dance, quilting, sewing, crafting, decorating, designing, metal work? There are so many outlets for our creativity and they all can bring honor to God, Who bestowed them upon us to use for His glory.
Why do you think God gave us the opportunity to be creative? “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” Genesis 1:27. God created us in his image and when we imitate Him by creating, we interact with Him at a new level. If you feel blocked, having trouble connecting with God, cease the madness of working and stressing. Stop, breathe deeply, close your eyes and begin to envision what you could create. If you haven’t found your niche, pray about it. Ask God what your area of artistic gift might be. He will show you. Don’t be inhibited. We serve an extravagant God Who will delight in your flair for creating something. And you will be amazed at the freedom your spirit will begin to experience. As you spend time in the relaxing, beautiful exercising of your mind and hands (maybe feet), your stress will dissolve away and joy will enter your heart. God does not desire that we spend every minute of our lives in serious work. There is a time for everything, and a balanced life is a joy-filled life. Inspire and motivate others through your gifts. Honor God with your gifts, and delight yourself as well. The blessings will amaze you.
“When we open ourselves to exploring our creativity, we open ourselves to God: good orderly direction.” -Julia Cameron