One of my regrets in life is not taking the time to draw and paint more. Perhaps you’ve felt the same—a longing to create, to bring something beautiful into the world, yet life’s demands pulled you in a different direction. Creativity is often seen as an extra, something for the artist or musician, but the truth is, creativity is one way we reflect God’s very nature.
The First Impression of God
Genesis 1:1 declares, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” The very first thing we learn about God is that He is a Creator. Before we know Him as Redeemer or Judge, we meet Him as Elohim—the powerful Creator who spoke everything into existence. This is not an accidental introduction; it is a defining characteristic of who God is.
If God’s first impression in Scripture is creation, then it follows that creativity is a sacred gift. When we use our creative abilities—whether in art, music, teaching, problem-solving, or even innovation in business—we are mirroring our Creator. We are drawing near to God by imitating His character.
Creation Proclaims the Creator
Psalm 19:1 tells us, “The heavens proclaim the glory of God; the skies display his craftsmanship.” Nature itself is a masterpiece, designed to point us back to the Artist. Creativity surrounds us, from the intricate design of a flower to the vastness of the cosmos, speaking of God’s power and beauty.
Yet, nature alone is incomplete. While it reveals that there is a Creator, it does not tell us how to know Him personally. Psalm 19 transitions from the beauty of creation to the perfection of God’s Word: “The instructions of the Lord are perfect, reviving the soul.” (v.7). The Bible gives us the special revelation we need to understand who God is and how to have a relationship with Him.
Creativity with Purpose
Creativity apart from God can mislead us. The world often elevates creativity for creativity’s sake, but without the guidance of God’s truth, we risk using our gifts in ways that do not honor Him. True creativity should not only reflect the beauty of creation but also point to the Creator.
Consider Jesus—“ God created everything through him” (John 1:3). Yet, when He came to His creation, many did not recognize Him (John 1:10). The worst art is that which denies the Artist. We participate in something eternal when we use our creative abilities for His glory.
Psalm 19 closes with a deeply personal plea: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer” (v.14). This is our call—to use our creativity in worship, to glorify God with the gifts He has given us.
You are God’s masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10). Your creativity, whether in words, music, art, or problem-solving, is a way to draw near to Him. Use it to reflect His glory and proclaim His greatness.