3 keys to overcoming fear in creativity
Being a Christian creative is one of the most fulfilling, challenging and joyous journeys! We get to make beautiful things, bring ideas to life, and help others find beauty in everyday moments. But there is an element of vulnerability to being a creative, and when we put ourselves out there, fear can sneak in.
Fear of others’ opinions, failure, rejection, or not being good enough. Sound familiar? It’s no accident that you love painting, or feel like you come alive when you draw, or that you find kingdom purpose in your craft. God planted your creative desire and gift inside of you. He wired you that way.
I have found myself over the years face to face with fear, and I’ve learnt that if I am going to walk in the plans and purposes of God for my life, I cannot let fear win. Overcoming fear in creativity is vital, so that you too can walk in freedom and confidence in your creative journey.
1: You are not what you do
What we do with our creative gift will never be “enough”. There will always be someone who doesn’t like it, has an opinion about it, or just isn’t interested in it. If we find our identity, value or worth in those people’s opinions, we will be crushed with fear of man. I encourage you, friend, to find your identity in God. Go to His word, take time to pray, and seek Him. Let Him be the reason, the motivation, the prize. You are not what you do. You are a child of God. Your worth is in Him.
2: Surrender & Obedience
Consider your creative gift as something God has asked you to steward. Instead of it being all your responsibility, and all for your glory, surrender it to God. Ask Him to direct you, guide you, lead you. Ask Him where or how He wants you to use your creativity to serve His Kingdom, and then, let’s be obedient to what God asks us to do. It might be putting aside our own ideas or agendas to pursue His lead, but it’s absolutely worth it. When we do this, fear take a back seat to the adventure of walking in step with God.
3: Choose to push past the fear barrier
I’ve said before, there’s a fear barrier in front of you all the time, you just have to make the choice to step past it. Some days will be easier than others. But you will not overcome fear by sitting still and hoping the fear goes away. Step forward with God given identity, and a surrendered heart, knowing God’s with you on your journey. Don’t let fear stop you from pursuing what God’s called you to do.
If you’re a Christian creative, I’d love to invite you to be part of my Creative Journey Community. You’ll find encouragement and support for your creativte journey, and grow alongside others seeking to find their unique God-inspired style.
