The More You Create, the More You Become Yourself
Are you using your creative gifts to make your home a sanctuary?
For many years, I worked in a Midwestern university setting, and I had the unique opportunity to interact with many gifted college students. I remember vividly a young male named Skip. He was from California and was charismatic, popular and possessed wisdom much beyond his young age.
He was a very spiritual young man, and I found myself learning more about the beauty of God through my interaction with him. One day, he shared a tidbit of wisdom that I have never forgotten. He said, you must always remember, “The more you create, the more you become yourself.” This is my website mantra http://www.nitasglow.com/.
I often ask myself, am I using all my creative gifts for God’s glory? I have always been fascinated with the concept of creativity, whether thinking about it or producing a creative product.
As a young child, I was fascinated with wallpaper samples, interior design, and especially enjoyed decorating my bedroom, and sewing my own clothes. I became intrigued with the gift of creativity. What does creativity mean? What does God’s word say about creativity? But, more importantly how do you use creativity to make your home a sanctuary?
What is Creativity?
There are various definitions of creativity. According to creativityatwork.com, “Creativity is the act of turning new and imaginative ideas into reality.” Creativity requires us to think and then produce. One of the website author’s eloquently said, “if you have ideas, but do not act on them, you are imaginative, but not creative.” Creativity requires passion, commitment and action.
In her book, “Simple Secrets to a Beautiful Home,” Emilie Barnes says creativity is: “A God given ability to take something ordinary and make it into something special. It is an openness to doing old things in new ways and willingness to adapt other people’s good ideas to suit our personal needs.”
Have you taken something ordinary in your home and made it extraordinary?
What Does God’s Word Say About Creativity?
God is the master of creativity. If God created all things, he has blessed us with the gift of creativity. “Unfortunately, when we think of “Christian” we do not necessarily equate this word to creativity. An article in Relevant Magazine argues that there is not a lack of creative Christians, but rather, Christians who do not know what to do with their creativity. The article suggests that “many believers struggle to balance their art and their faith.”
The Bible provides wisdom and insight into whom God chooses to give gifts, and how he blesses us with a wide range of creative gifts. (Exodus 35:30-33, Ephesians 2:10, 1 Timothy 4:14-15)
I am inspired by the story of Bezalel son of Uri. In Exodus 31: 2-3. God’s word says: “I have filled him with the spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts.” It is interesting to note that God says first in this scripture, “I filled him with the spirit of God.” One of the greatest teachable moments in this scripture is to recognize that only when we are filled with the spirit of God, can we truly recognize the depth and breadth of our creative gifts.
As a home sanctuary wellness coach, I am passionate and committed to helping people make their homes a tranquil and peaceful place. Helping them to realize that transformation comes from within. Once you develop the heart of Christ, it becomes easier to make your home a sanctuary. You become more peaceful, and you develop a spirit of gratitude enjoying the living space you are blessed to have. Enjoy looking for creative ways to make your home a pleasing place of ministry. \
I encourage you to take a moment to relax and listen to a radio interview I did on the home sanctuary concept.. It will give you greater clarity about my values and beliefs about home sanctuary principles. I am inspired by Colossians 3:23-24 where God, promises us, “if we are skillful in our work, we will not go unnoticed.” Proverbs 22:29 also says, “Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings, he will not stand before obscure men.” If you are filled with the Holy Spirit and use your creative gifts, you will honor God by empowering yourself to create a warm, loving and respectful living space.
How Do You Use Your Creative Gifts In Your Home?
God wants you to use your creative gifts to make your home a sanctuary. Your home should be an authentic expression of yourself. Create a living space that reflects the essence of who you are, your interests and dreams. For example, if you are a gifted artist, author, crafter, photographer, musician, producer, seamstress, poet, cook, etc. experiment with ways to showcase your creative talents in your home.
As we began to enter into the spring season, begin to think of unique ways to refresh your home. I have been enjoying adding solar lights to old chandeliers and candelabras and placing them in my outdoor living spaces. At night the solar lights reflect a subtle and beautiful glow. This brings great joy to my spirit that I created these beautiful items, even though I got the ideas from Pinterest!
I also enjoy the creative process of making beaded jewelry and home accessories. I have taken some of my beaded décor products, and displayed them in my home. Click here To view some of my unique creations.
It is important for you to take time to reflect about your creative gifts and how they are displayed in your home. Only you and God can create a living space that honors Him and provides you, family and friends great fulfillment.
If I walk into your home today:
How are your creative gifts displayed?
What would I see, hear, taste, touch and smell in your home?
Are there any creative gifts you possess, that you would like to use more in your home? If so, explain.
Take time to enjoy the moment and your home. Use your creative gifts to make your home a sanctuary
pleasing place of ministry. Remember my mantra:
“The more you create, The more you become yourself”
