Less Than Creative
Today is Friday, February 23rd. According to my calendar, I’m scheduled to write today. But truthfully, I’m not feeling very creative. Ok…let me explain.
I truly enjoy writing. It doesn’t always come easy to me. In fact, often, it is a labor of love. Yet, still, I try to write weekly. I try to write weekly because writing is a craft. The more you do it, the better you will become at it. At least that’s the goal.
On days like today, though, I feel like nothing unique is coming to my head that is worth writing about. I’m sure we all have days like this. I understand this and realize that I am not unusual here. But for me, the lack of creativity seems to be more constant. However, as I read scripture, I see that this simply is not true. Scripture reminds me that I am creative. Let me explain.
The Apostle Paul writes in Ephesians 2:10, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” The Greek word used here for workmanship is poiēma. This word is best translated as that which has been made or a work. In other words, we are Christ’s work of art. He created you and me with specific gifts and talents for a specific plan and purpose. So when we feel a little less than creative or like we have nothing worthwhile to say, maybe it’s because we are listening to the words of the enemy more than we are listening to the promises of God. I know this to be true in my life.
I often feel inadequate. Then I read in Luke 1:37 that nothing is impossible with God. We must be careful not to take God’s word out of context here. But it is true: if God calls you to something, He will equip you to see it through. Also, when I am tempted to be fearful (which happens more times than I care to admit), I’m reminded of Isaiah 41:10, which assures me, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Several years ago, I was challenged by a friend while in an accountability session to do 1 thing each day that frightens me. Admittedly, I have not been successful in doing something every day that frightens me, but I do look for something to do each day that is outside of my comfort zone. Why is this important? 2 Things:
It reminds me that I am not in charge and God is bigger than I can even think or imagine. The more I do things out of my comfort zone, the more I will trust Him.
When I attempt difficult things, it helps my creative juices to flow more frequently.
I do not fully comprehend why this second one is true. I just know that it is.
So, what is it for you? When you feel a little less than creative, what lies have you been believing from Satan?
Let me leave you with one last word from Scripture. 1 Corinthians 10:13 assures us this truth, “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”
You have what it takes. If you have a relationship with Christ, He provides whatever it is that you will need.
Next time you are tempted to doubt or fear, don’t! Christ has you!
