Series Intro: There are many, many factors shaping who we are and how we answer questions like, “Who am I?” “Why am I the way that I am?” And, “how will I live?” In this series, we are exploring what Scripture says about these questions of identity: who we are and who God made us to be.
Need:
Connection: Many of us fear a mundane life and think that only big, noticeable accomplishments matter. However, what if our impact is unseen? What if creativity isn’t just about the big moments?
Big Idea:
- Genesis 1:27 – We are made in the image of God (imago Dei), meaning we are created to be creative. Creativity isn’t just for artists, musicians, or innovators; it’s embedded in all of us in various ways.
- God as Creator:
- Genesis 1:1 – The first thing we learn about God is that He creates.
- Genesis 2:19 – Adam naming the animals shows that creativity is in the small, everyday acts.
- Creativity is not about fame but about reflecting God’s image in our unique ways.
Misconception of Creativity:
- People often define creativity as artistic talent or innovation.
- Example: Michael Brush – Analytical thinker but creative in tech, strategy, and problem-solving.
- Creativity is about expressing God-given qualities in unique ways.
- Key Question: Instead of asking, Am I creative? ask, How can I use my unique gifts to honor God?
Four Steps for Living Out Creativity:
- Weep: Recognize what breaks your heart.
- Hans Rookmaaker: True creativity flows from understanding brokenness and potential beauty.
- Amos 6:1-7: Condemnation of those indifferent to suffering. Creativity can be a response to injustice.
- Question: What stirs your heart and calls for action?
- Pray: Seek God’s wisdom in your creative process.
- Creativity is not isolated but a partnership with God.
- Prayer aligns our creative work with God’s will and makes it an act of worship.
- Think: Reflect on your creative gifts and their purpose.
- Ephesians 2:10 – We are created for good works prepared in advance.
- Creativity is not just about utility but about glorifying God through unique expressions.
- Work: Put creativity into practice.
- Exodus 35 – Building the Tabernacle involved all Israelites, not just artisans.
- Creativity is found in all tasks, from tech support to hospitality, leadership, and caregiving.
- Example: Various members of Arise Church using different talents in service.
Application: Living Creatively
- Find Your Creativity: Identify passions and strengths.
- Examples: Organizing ministries, technical support, hospitality, mentoring, outreach, caregiving.
- Creativity is in everyday tasks, relationships, and problem-solving.
- Practice Your Creativity: Implement the Weep, Pray, Think, Work model in daily life.
- Look for ways to serve and reflect God’s creativity in your home, workplace, and church.
Conclusion:
- We are made in the image of the Creator, meaning we are called to be creative. It’s not about performance but participation in God’s creative work. Your creativity is enough, whether in quiet, unseen acts or public expressions.