The Power of Creativity in Spiritual Disciplines
A few years ago, I discovered what motivates me to exercise regularly without complaint. Before that discovery, I would try to stick to a Nike Fit Plan, but fall off. Or, I’d attempt to go to the gym a few times a week, but felt overwhelmed by all of the equipment.
What I found works for me is enjoyment and variety. I am not a gym girlie, but I do enjoy at-home workouts where I pull up Youtube and follow along. And rather than do the same sets of exercises several times a week for different target areas, I prefer to mix it up with different styles of fitness. A typical week for me looks like:
Monday: Walk + Pilates
Tuesday: Walk + Boxing on the Oculus
Wednesday: Walk + Weighted Abs
Thursday: Walk + Pilates
Friday: Walk + Zumba
Saturday: Extended Walk
Sunday: Rest day
Keeping in line with the theme of variety. The same goes with food. While I admire those who meal prep the same chicken, rice, and vegetables to eat for lunch everyday, I would be depressed. I love to incorporate different flavors, switch up the protein, swap in a new combination of vegetables, etc. each day. If you’re the type who doesn’t mind doing the same exercises and eating the same meals, then I think it’s fair to assume you’re the same with your quiet time approach. You’d probably do well to complete a Bible in a year plan, without feeling the need to deviate. However, for those of us who get bored with the monotony and look forward to newness, and fun in your approach to spending time with God, then you’ll want to keep reading. This could be the missing piece for you in staying consistent in seeking God each day!
Creativity can be a powerful tool for encountering and connecting with God.
God is the Ultimate Creative
As the Creator of the universe and all that exists within it, He demonstrates unparalleled creativity in multiple ways:
Creation of the Universe: The Bible opens with the statement, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1). This act of creating the entire cosmos, with its vastness, complexity, and beauty, is a testament to God's unmatched creativity.
Variety in Nature: The diversity of life forms, landscapes, and ecosystems on Earth reflects God's creativity. From the intricate patterns of a snowflake to the complexity of a butterfly’s wings, His creativity is evident.
Human Imagination: God bestowed humans with the ability to imagine, invent, and create. Our capacity for art, music, literature, technology, and innovation is a reflection of God's creative nature.
Inspirational Revelation: Throughout history, God has inspired artists, writers, musicians, and thinkers to create works that communicate spiritual truths and beauty. This divine inspiration is a manifestation of His creative influence.
Renewal and Regeneration: In the natural world, God's creative power is evident in processes of renewal and regeneration, such as the changing of seasons, the growth of new life, and the healing of wounds.
Unique Individuals: Every human being is uniquely created by God, with distinct talents, gifts, and personalities. This individuality demonstrates God's creativity in crafting each person as a one-of-a-kind creation.
Miracles: The Bible is filled with accounts of miraculous events that defy natural laws. These miracles showcase God's ability to creatively intervene in the natural order.
Spiritual Renewal: God's creative work extends to the spiritual realm, where He transforms and renews the hearts and lives of believers. This spiritual rebirth is a testament to His creative power.
Redemption and Restoration: The story of redemption through Jesus Christ reflects God's creativity in providing a way for humanity to be reconciled with Him and experience spiritual renewal.
Endless Possibilities: God's creativity is not limited by human comprehension. He operates beyond our understanding, and His creative potential is limitless.
It's important to note that God's creativity is not limited to the physical and natural world but also encompasses the spiritual and supernatural realms.
God Has Called His People to Create
Genesis 1:27
"So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them." This verse highlights humanity's unique role as bearers of God's image, which includes attributes like creativity.
Exodus 35:30-35
This passage describes how God filled Bezalel and Oholiab with the Spirit of God, giving them skill, intelligence, and knowledge in all kinds of craftsmanship for the construction of the tabernacle. It demonstrates God's involvement in and approval of human creativity in service to Him.
1 Corinthians 12:4-6
"Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone." This passage speaks of the diverse spiritual gifts and talents given by God to believers for various forms of service.
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." This verse emphasizes that believers are God's workmanship and have been created for good works, which can include acts of creativity and service.
Romans 12:6-8
This passage speaks of spiritual gifts, including the gifts of prophecy, serving, teaching, exhortation, contributing, leadership, and acts of mercy. These gifts reflect the diversity of abilities that God has given to His people for various forms of ministry and creativity.
People in the Bible Who Were Creatives
King Solomon was known for his wisdom, but he was also a creative individual. He composed many songs and proverbs, and he had expertise in various fields, including architecture and horticulture. Solomon's construction of the First Temple in Jerusalem showcased his creativity and architectural skills.
King David, in addition to being a warrior and a poet, was a musician and songwriter. He played the harp and composed many of the psalms found in the Book of Psalms. His creative expression through music and poetry is still celebrated today.
Noah demonstrated creativity and craftsmanship when he built the ark according to God's specifications. His obedience and skill in constructing the ark saved his family and various animals during the great flood.
Lydia, a businesswoman in Philippi, is mentioned as a worshiper of God. She used her creativity and entrepreneurial skills to engage in the trade of purple cloth and later became one of the first converts to Christianity in Europe.
How to Infuse Creativity Into Your Quiet Time With God
So, now we know that God is the ultimate creative. He has called us to create. And we can worship Him with our creativity. Here are just some ideas to get you started:
Get out your colored pencils and markers, and memorize scripture as you color in these cards from the Daily Grace Co.
Go on a prayer walk around your neighborhood
Journal your prayers and watch God answer them in this 5 year prayer journal by Hosanna Revival
Layer in these fun Bible study stickers as you go through a passage in scripture
Make the promises of God personal by replacing the pronouns in a passage with your name
Get a journaling Bible so you can take notes in the margins as you read. Extra fun: try hand lettering your favorite verse from the passage
Incorporate the Creative Quiet Time Journal into your quiet time
The 30 creative prompts and activities in the Creative Quiet Time Journal are there to help you foster a deeper, more vibrant spirituality. And in doing so, you’ll look forward to what’s next each day, making a quiet time habit desirable to stick to in the long run. The activities range from unique ways to worship and meditate, to creating vision boards, going in-depth in your study of the Word, and enriching your prayer life.
I hope this blog post encourages you to expand your mind to the many ways you can spend your quiet time with God. Here’s what a few customers have had to say about the Creative Quiet Time Journal in that regard…
“I was comfortable connecting with God by myself but this creative quiet time journal has opened my eyes to new ways to connect with God.” — Briana B.
“The Creative Quiet Time Journal has been my favorite journal setup. It’s been the most creative/variety that I’ve seen.” –Christina K.
“It takes you on a journey of sorts to deepen your understanding in so many ways. I found it to be creative, insightful and fun. I'm only 9 days in and have already had such an impactful few days.” — Ricci J.
“The prompts were well-thought out and very diverse. I enjoyed that immensely because each day was different.” –Rachel D.
Want to try a sample of the Creative Quiet Time Journal, first?
Sign up to receive the Creative Quiet Time Quest and get 3 prompts, free!
