Grounded Faith: Why It’s Essential for an Artistic Career in Today’s Distracted Culture

Grounded Faith: Why It’s Essential for an Artistic Career in Today’s Distracted Culture

Journal

Does faith come from hearing? What if, in today’s noisy, media-cluttered and confused culture, what one hears – the message – isn’t digested? John 1:1 says, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word (Jesus) was with God, and the Word (Jesus) was God.

Do we believe the Word?

Paul tells us that God’s “grace is sufficient” and that in our weaknesses God’s power is “made perfect” (II Corinthians 12:9). When dry periods come in the rollercoaster life of an arts and creative career, and depression looms and it’s easy to whine about not being enough, knowing enough, having enough connections, or money. Can you believe that God is enough for you? And that when you “seek Him first, He will give you the desires of your heart?” Can you remember that “through Him” you are, with all your imperfections and failures, being “made perfect?”

What we think (our mindset) affects our heart (passions) and will affect what we do with our hands, feet, creative talents, and skills. But James 2:14-26 reminds us that “faith without works” is dead.    

Fruit from the vine must be broken open for the juice to be consumed and used.

God allows dry spells – seasons to happen in careers and life. But those difficult seasons don’t have to be devastating when we stay engaged with God in His Word. We can find joy in a desert season because we know where “Living Water” is hidden. It’s in the Word. God’s directions are there giving you instruction and a pathway to forge on. God teaches us to be watchful and to listen. We are being refined in the fire of life so that we can reflect Jesus brilliantly.

Research confirms that you need to read the Bible personally four or more times weekly, or you won’t make different choices than a nonbeliever. Get into the Word and watch your mind be renewed. See your heart grow with passion and your life soar. Then… consider associating with, being mentored by, or following someone who isn’t your equal but is “above your pay grade.” Study their habits and choices. Be observant. Joseph had to be put in prison so he could befriend the king’s cupbearer, which led to him using his God-given talent for interpreting dreams that propelled him into the king’s court. I often wonder how the king’s cupbearer played a key role in giving Joseph instructions on how to approach the king.

Successful men and women deal with adversity. It’s unavoidable. Its’ been said that…

When God gives you a vision, He also gives you “provision.” Claim it today!

Contentment in the Court of the King

Contentment in the Court of the King

Journal

I was late and had run to my college dorm room to grab a book for my next class when the landline phone rang (no cell phones back then). He said his name was “Phil” and he had a couple of tickets to a concert that weekend and did I want to go? When I heard the name of the rock band performing, I couldn’t say “yes” fast enough. But I was in a desperate hurry and told Phil to call me back with the details and quickly hung up. As I did, a sinking feeling suddenly hit me.

I had gotten to know a Phil during college registration day, and it was only after hanging up that I realized what I had done. That wasn’t the Phil I knew. He was a different Phil! I had sat next to another Phil at a chapel service the week before, and it was that Phil who called! Horrified, I turned to my roommate standing there and said, “Oh no, I think I’ve just accepted a date with a guy I don’t know.”

Little did I know this blind date would be my forever husband, my prince, and the love of my life. God knew it, and I believe orchestrated my lack of attention to insert Phil Cooke into my life. (more…)