The Heart Behind the Work: Creating with Purpose

I haven’t been creating much lately—not because the desire isn’t there, but because life has been full. Before May even ends, I will have been on eight flights between work and personal travel. For me, that’s a lot. Still, the time away from my canvas and studio has had its place in the creative process. It has created space for reflection, for prayer, and for deeper listening.

Even when I’m not creating with my hands, I’m still seeking the Lord with my heart—asking what He wants from me and from this platform.

A Shift in What Drives Me

This unexpected pause is being used by God to prune some things from my heart. As much as I strive to glorify and exalt Christ through my art and life, He’s been revealing some things that grieve Him: pride, impatience, the desire to receive glory myself.

God didn’t give me the gift of creativity so I could exalt myself. This quieter season is clarifying some essential truths for me:

First, the condition of my heart. I’ve been too focused on likes and engagement—more than I’d like to admit. While my messaging points to Christ, my heart has at times been after attention and validation.

Second, the why behind my art. If my work is truly meant to glorify God—and it is—then I need to spend much more time seeking Him about what He wants me to create.

You’ll begin to see this shift unfold in real time. Where I once asked, “What will be impressive and also point to God?” I’m now asking, “Lord, what do You want me to create?”

A Glimpse of What’s Coming

My vision for my art is becoming less about impressing others or showcasing talent, and more about walking in purpose—creating what pleases the Holy Spirit. If He leads me to make something abstract, I will. If He calls me to create something technical and detailed, I’ll do that too.

I’m sitting with something new—something rooted more deeply in faith and purpose. I’m trusting God to bring it all together in His perfect timing.

Though the studio has been quiet, my vision is becoming clearer. I’m no longer consulting God like He’s my business strategist—I’m making room for Him to reign as sovereign King over every part of my life, including my art.

Let’s Reflect Together

Can you relate? Are there areas in your life where the motive seems godly on the surface, but when you dig deeper, it’s more about you?

How are you inviting the Lord to purify your intentions in this season?

Comment below or send me a DM on Instagram. I’d love to hear from you.

If this resonated with you, I’ve created something to help you go deeper. Download my 10 free journal prompts to reflect on God’s beauty through art and invite Him into your creative or contemplative process.