I look forward to my daily walks; squeezing them in, even when I’m busy. Beyond the physical benefits of a healthy heart and a strong body, there are the mental and emotional advantages, as well. It’s a time for me to breathe deeply, unwind, pray, worship, and to think about my next creative project. Near my house there’s a dirt road which provides both exercise and solitude. Because the road has no outlet, I’m more likely to see deer or wild turkeys than people or cars. I find refreshment and inspiration, but my path abruptly stops, I must turn back. Question: Do I bring the motivation home with me or does it stay stuck at the dead end?
Unfortunately, action does not always follow. Responsibilities or distractions meet me at the door and if I don’t at least take the time to jot down my thoughts, they are gone. I’ve gotten so I will bring a small notepad with me so nothing of importance is lost. But even then, if I don’t take the time to expand and develop these ideas, what did they accomplish? Yes, moments of personal pleasure and contemplation while on my walk, but ideas and creativity need outlets to help more than just myself. Dead ends are just that.
Inspiration can flow into our hearts and our desire to be creative might be sincere, but if we don’t take action, nothing comes of it. Like water, if stagnate, it produces only barrenness and death. Regardless of our talent or skill level, if we are faithful to use our gifts, God will bring increase. But if we don’t take the time or put forth the effort to develop our outlet, God’s creative purpose for our lives will shrivel up, leaving us to wonder what might have been.
Think beyond yourself. God always has a purpose for the talents He gives us. Others cannot benefit from the fruit God desires to bring forth from our creative expression without our willingness to be productive. Once we realize our creativity can bless others it becomes a win, win. We are built up emotionally, just as a brisk walk builds us up physically. Then the benefits go beyond us to ministering to others. For example, you might have a story of loss and how God brought you through. It cannot reach or give hope to anyone else if you don’t think of ways to share your experience. It could be in the form of a blog, poem, song, or a piece of art. It could also be around your table. Open your home to those you know are hurting and share your story of redemption over coffee. Being creative doesn’t have to be impressive or time consuming to bring life, but it does need to be shared… an outlet.
I’m the author of: Created to be Creative
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