Sometimes getting started can be the hardest thing to do.

I recently got a question from one of my Podcast listeners, Ethan, who said, “Matt, I’ve got a goal, I’ve got a vision, but I never seem to get on track with either. It’s always been one step forward, two steps back for me, and I’m just not sure how to start seeing real progress in my life.”

I can absolutely understand where Ethan is coming from because I’ve been stuck in the same rut myself.  I was sitting at church the other day after reading this question, and my Pastor gave a great example right out of Genesis of how God starts a project.

Skeletons—Structure Is Not A Bad Thing

Drawing from the Scriptures in Genesis 2, consider how God formed Eve. He started with a bone He borrowed from Adam. This bone was the structure from which God created Eve.

Once Adam and Eve had been completely formed—their skeletons, tendons, muscles, and skin all in place—God had one last step left on His “Create Humanity” action plan. Adam and Eve were just mounds of impressively arranged dust until God breathed HIS life into their bodies.

Often, artists resist structure. Maybe it doesn’t feel “artsy” enough. Or maybe the idea of structure conflicts with what “Spirit-led” means to you. But we must realize that EVERYTHING God has ever created was built within the framework of a Spirit-inspired structure. (Don’t believe me? Check out this YouTube video about the Fibonacci Sequence.)

Tendons—The Power of Connection

After laying a foundation with the skeletal system, God used tendons to connect everything together. Whether you’re talking about your physical life, spiritual life, or artistic life, you can’t sustain growth without meaningful connections.

This is one reason so many creatives struggle. Somewhere along the way, they bought into the lie that they are the only ones struggling in life, art, or business. They’ve decided that everyone else finds success more naturally and abundantly. If this is you, don’t let the loneliness, isolation, and fear of what others might think or say keep you trapped any longer. Be intentional! Seek out and connect with like-minded artists and mentors.

Muscles—Your Strengths

If you’re looking to unleash transformation in your life, start with structure, pair that with authentic connections, and then consider your strengths. In your physical body, I’m talking about muscles. In your life and art, your strengths are the unique gifts and talents God has sown into your life.

These gifts and talents are given to you by God so they can be exercised, built up, and used by you as you fulfill the plans and purposes He has for you. As an artist, your talents and skills bring a unique perspective to the artworks you make.

Skin—What the World Sees

So yes, it’s a weird point, but if you were just a bunch of bones and muscles moving through the world, you’d be both vulnerable to infection and unsettling to look at.  Skin is essential. As an artist, you’ve got to learn how to present your life and artwork to the world. The presentation allows others to understand and interact with your artwork.

Presenting your artwork clearly and compellingly is not the same as bragging or puffing yourself up. Your artwork is a gift God might use to bless others. If you find yourself struggling to show the depth of your talent and the strength of your character, it might be time for a “face lift.” Ask the Father to show you what He says about you and your work (check this recent article of mine if you’re unsure), listen to what He says, receive it, then share that with others.

Sometimes getting started can be the hardest thing to do.

And Finally, Breathe It All In

Once Adam and Eve had been completely formed—their skeletons, tendons, muscles, and skin all in place—God had one last step left on His “Create Humanity” action plan. Adam and Eve were just mounds of impressively arranged dust until God Breathed HIS life into their bodies.

My friend, that’s when true life comes rushing in! The Holy Spirit moves through your creative process as you grow your art business, guiding your steps and bringing your creativity to life. Maybe this is the invitation for you today—to take a deep breath and invite the Creator of all Creatives to breathe His life into your creation.

This article was originally published by Matt Tommey in 2020 and is adapted with his permission from https://www.matttommeymentoring.com/. Matt Tommey is an artist, internationally-known Christian speaker, and the author of 7 books who is passionate about helping artists thrive spiritually, artistically, and in business. He is a mentor to artists around the world through his Created to Thrive Artist Mentoring Program and also hosts The Thriving Christian Artist Podcast. Find more resources from Matt at https://www.matttommeymentoring.com/.