Holding Tight To Your Dreams: Artists Building Up Artists

People are not usually easy on other people's dreams...But, more times than not, it is other Artists who serve to discourage their fellow artistic peers.
The one thing that I hate the most in art of any kind, is the mindset of the majority in the art world, who get caught up in 'skill : 'above 'creativity', above 'message', and above 'other people's feelings'.
Yes, there is such thing as poor art, and excellent art. But, what is other Artists who seem to want to wreck other creative people's dreams? Perhaps  it is really not that they plan to speak words of discouragement, but deep down inside you know, they only care about what 'they're' doing, and where 'they're' going...and where's the encouragement in that? It makes you feel like what you have to offer is unimportant, and that your dreams are paper thin.

Sometimes I wonder where 'God is' in the business world, and in the art world. It's almost as if there is hardly any room for him in these places, because people are overly 'competitive' and 'self centered'. We rarely see this fact more clearly than on 'Black Friday' here in the US ;-)...

I believe that networking, especially Christian networking, should be about 'assisting our fellow artists for Christ'. Until people realize that in this life, whether in our work or in our play, there is always the need to be serving someone else. But, if we are too consumed with our own 'talents' and 'abilities' we will not want to serve others, we will only want to 'be served'. Which is ridiculously selfish...

In art, especially in the mediums that are collaborative, such as film-making, dance, theater, music...you will not get far if you think, or want to be 'super man'. No matter what you tell yourself,  you cannot do everything 'yourself'. And the hardest thing about 'collaborative' art mediums, is truly respecting and flourishing in that environment. I'd say mainly because, no one is perfect. And unless people give up a certain extent on 'pleasing themselves' and start 'truly serving', the projects collaborated on are jinxed.

What is a music artist, without a recording team? A singer without back up music? What is Filmmaker without out a videographer, a writer, a gopher, an actor? We are nothing without each other. Artists aren't much without other artists. We make eachother's dreams possible.

So how does this relate to you personally?
I think the Artist/ the Creative person, has to be willing to 'let go of his dreams a little bit', just enough to see that if he does not, he cannot be helped, and his dreams will not become a reality. And if we are too consumed with our own progress, we will not consider the man who sits beside us who needs assistance.

Perhaps, the true point of this blog post is just to remind the 'Art arena' that 'humility' is better than blind ambition. I believe that the best artists are those who put other people before themselves, whether that be the audience, or fellow artists. The truth is Artists...we need a wake up call. The walls need to be dropped, the complex needs to be dropped that says 'I am the best at what I do', 'If I don't like what you do, it must not be good'. So critical, so judgmental, so un-supportive is the majority of the art world, because most Artists believe that they can stick up their noses and bash every other person's artwork that doesn't align to their personal tastes!

But, honestly I think the root of this in some cases is 'insecurity'. This is more the case with fellow artistic 'peers', than with teachers and professionals...they dash your hopes, by withholding encouragement and acceptance, because deep inside they want to believe that 'they are better at what they do'...they don't give encouragement  because they don't have it in  'themselves'. The do not accept, because they themselves are looking for 'acceptance', 'backing', 'financing' lol.  So the thing is, most of the young artists are in competition with each other  fearing they will be left behind.

Also, a lot of young folk are pursing the wrong career, or even area of creativity. Just because other people have frightened their dreams, and peer-pressure even 'non verbal' has made them assume they must be like 'everybody else'. It's a lie. Don't try to be like 'everybody else'. Because, there are already too many Artists in the same boxes, that never found their own 'style'.

As Christians we must never cut off any part of our lives from living the Christ-centered life. Some people think that they can call themselves 'Christians' and yet they are only so in church, and not on the film set, nor in their hobbies. Just like some people are thankful on 'Thanksgiving', selfish on 'Black Friday', and then "generous" on 'Christmas'.
How should you act in your career  or in your artistic pursuits? Just as Jesus would. Surprised? Yes, you still should act like a follower of the Messiah when you're at work, or even at play.
Art on a large scale as described in the Bible, is the result of God individually calling different people to use their unique talents and gifts, to join to together and work for a common purpose or goal.

Just as with Spiritual gifts, we are not to glory solely in, or keep our gifts to ourselves. It's all about community, group effort, and uplifting others. We are all parts of one body in Christ Jesus. Some of us are the hands, some of us are the feet, some of us our the mouth. We all have our purpose, and we were all created with 'a' purpose. Every man has a purpose, and believe it or not, he doesn't really have to 'find it' to make it a reality.
I encourage you, the reader, to read the following scripture passage from Corinthians 12 through the beginning of Corinthians 13. Just as the Spiritual gifts in many people all create 'one body', so should our talents in fellow Christians be used to create 'a body'.

1 Corinthians 12 ~

4 There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. 5 There are different kinds of serve, but the same Lord. 6 There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work
7 Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good. 8 To one there is given through the Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, 10 to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues  and to still another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and he distribute them to each one, just as he determines.

12 Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. 13 For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body - whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free- and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. 14 Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.
15 Now if the foot should say, "Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body," it would not for that reason stop being a part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, "Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body", it would not for that reason stop being part of the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be? 18 But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. 19 If they were all one part, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts, but on body.

21 The eye cannot say to the hand, "I don't need you!"And the head cannot say to the feet, "I don't need you!" 22 On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor. And the parts that un-presentable are treated with special modesty, 24 which our presentable parts need no special treatment. But God has put the body together, giving greater honor to the parts that lacked it, 25 so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. 26 If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.

27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is the part of it. 28 And God has placed in the church first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, of helping, of guidance, and of different kinds of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? 30 Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? 31 Now eagerly desire the greater gifts.

And yet I show you the most excellent way. -

1 Corinthians 13 ~

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angles, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.


Let us love our fellow Artists. We are to love above all else. If we have all the talent in the world, and the biggest dreams, but are self-centered what does it gain us? Where is the love in a lot of Artists? We are proud, we boast, we envy...we hold back kindness, we are self-seeking...
We need to follow the example of the scripture and find the true key to "success". We must put others before ourselves. Yes, it sounds hard...and 'no' it's not easy, to encourage other people's dreams when you are in doubt about the reality of your own. But, give your dreams to God. He will take care of them. He will lift up those who humble themselves in His own true time. God never leaves the good man behind. If you seek first His kingdom and His will, He shall give you the desires of Your heart, and make your paths straight.

So try not to be too offended by other Artists...don't let them discourage you...but pray for them, that they would see the 'greatness' in 'love' and 'generosity'. Pray for men and woman to stand up from the crowd who will be Artists who are driven not only by self gain, and who are not blind to the needs of others. There is a need for artists who are willing serve, willing to live for a purpose greater then themselves.

God, make us a body. God, give us purpose. God, do your will in and through us Artists.
We give you our dreams, we give you our fears, we give you our anxieties.

Let us be known as those Artists who 'build up' and don't 'tare down'.

Trusting in God's Promises

Most all of us have dreams, or goals that we hope to accomplish or obtain in life. But along with those dreams and goals we have anxieties. Anxieties that those same dreams and goals, won't come to pass, or that we won't obtain them. Ever.

Have you ever felt like though, no matter your fears, that God has promised you something? Perhaps you haven't actually heard the His voice wake you out of a deep sleep, or reveal himself and his promise to you in a vision...or perhaps you have...yet, maybe you were made aware of God's promise to you in another fashion; though the words of a friend, in your quiet time with God, in his word, a sign... confirming occurrences, or words that appear over and over again to you... However you were awakened to the "voice of God", He did "speak to you", and you know it...Sometimes you might 'doubt' the fact that God made a promise to you, but you know that He ‘did’. How do you know? Because even when you may fear that perhaps God didn't promise something to you, still, deep inside you keep 'waiting', you keep 'expecting' what you hope for, to one day happen. You haven't given up on your desire for ‘what’ God has promised...but perhaps you just don't know if God will really keep his word in 'fulfilling it'?

'Promise' definition:

Noun: A declaration of assurance that one will do a particular thing, or that guarantees that a particular thing will happen.

Verb: Assure someone that one will definitely do, give, or arrange something; undertake or declare that something will happen.

Ever read the story of Abraham in Genesis? If so, did you notice that almost in every chapter of his story God tells Abraham that he shall have his own son…but Abraham has to be constantly reminded of God’s promise to him, because what he promises seems impossible.

Genesis 12: 1-2 The Lord had said to Abram, “Leave your country, your people and your Father’s household and go to the land I will show you. 2 “I will make you into a ‘great nation’ and I will ‘bless you’; I will make your name great….

Then in chapter fifteen:

Genesis 15: 2 But Abram said, “O Sovereign Lord, what can you give me since I ‘remain’ childless and the one who will inherit my estate is Eliezer of Damascus?” 3 And Abram said, “You have given me no children; so a servant in my household will be my heir. “ 4 Then the word of the Lord came to him: “This man will not be your heir, but a son coming from your own body will be your heir. “ 5 He took him outside and said, “Look up at the heavens and count the stars – if indeed you ‘can’ cunt them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be”. 6 Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.

Then in Genesis seventeen:

Genesis 17: 15 And God said unto Abraham, As for Sarai thy wife, thou shall not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall her name be. 16 And I will bless her, and give thee a son also of her: yea, I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of people shall be of her. 17 Then Abraham fell upon his face, and laughed, and said in his heart, Shall a child be born unto him that is an hundred years old? And shall Sarah, that is ninety years old, bear? 18 And Abraham said unto God, “O that Ishmael might live before thee! 19 And God said “Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shall call his name Issac: and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant and with his seed after him.”

Notice here how Abraham says unto the Lord; “O that Ishmael might live before thee!” There are a few ways one might take this, but when I read it I think of all our failed attempts to ‘bring about’ God’s “will” in our lives. We do this, and we ‘do’ that, and there comes a time when we look up and ask God “O if only my attempts, if only my works could bring about your will!” But that's not the way it goes is it? We cannot 'make' providence happen in our lives, only the Holy Spirit can do that. If it were 'us' that made all the good things in our lives come to pass, and our dreams be fulfilled, then life would be all about 'us'. And it's not. What I think is that, if a man can 'make' happen his dreams all without God's help, then there's good cause to believe that his dreams were never Christ Centered, or focused on anything but the gratification of 'self'. Worthless dreams, that will not live after the individual is gone. I don't know about you, but I want what I do, my dreams to make an impact on the world, and those around me. I don't want something that will only bring happiness to 'myself'.

In Genesis eighteen 10- 14 God's messanger tells Abram and Her husband again, that they shall have a son.

And in Genesis 21:1-3 God's promise is fulfilled: And the Lord visted Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did unto Sarah as he had spoken.....5 And Abraham was an hundred years old, when his son Issac was born unto him.

 Sometimes God's promises take a long time to be fulfilled, but wow, He 'always' keeps his word.

Notice it took 25 years in this case, for what God promised concerning Abraham to come to pass. He was 75 when the promise first came to him that he would have a son, and 100 years old when it was fulfilled. Isn't God amazing? His timing is perfect. He perhaps waited until there was no possible way Abraham could 'do it on his own', and did the "impossible". I tend to believe God likes doing that. He comes when we realize that we can't possibly make our dreams come true on our own. His promises are like tickets. Tickets that never expire, nor are made void by impossibility. The train will 'chug' no matter the weather, no matter what. God's promises are true 'garantees'.

Sometimes though we get tired of waiting for God to 'answer our prayers' or 'keep his word' and in result we go to other things, or go for 'second best' or even doing things the 'world's way' (sinning) to get what we want...to take the place of what 'God has promised'; like Sarah and Abraham did in involving Hagar in their desire for a son. Genesis 16: 2- 5. Notice though what happenes when we 'jump the gun' and don't trust in God's promises? We bare fruit that doesn't line up to God's perfect will. I feel like we have the tendency to do the same thing, we we go to things, or do things that we know 'isn't what we should be doing' because God has promised more to us. But when God finall does fulfill his promises to us and our lives...we regret our hasty actions that we did when we didn't trust God would act on his promises; just like Sarah and Abraham did in Genesis 21:9-11...

God always keeps his promises, and fulfills what he has promised.

So what sort of promises has God made to you? There are some promises that God has made to all of his children.

He has promsied that he will never leave us or forsake us.
He has promised that he will supply all our needs according to Christ Jesus.
He has promised that we will be taken care of.
He has promised that those who trust in Him, He will direct their paths.
He has promised us eternal life.
He has promsied to give rest to those who come to Him.
He has promised peace and joy to those who's minds are set on Him.
He has promised victory for those who surrender to Him.
He has promised strength to those who seek it from Him.

http://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/the-promises-of-god-10-powerful-bible-verses-1/

The list goes on, and on, and on!

Do you trust God to make good his promises to you as his child?

Sometimes peace seems unibtainable. Sometimes shadows hider your sight. Sometimes the night stretches long into the morning. But peace can be yours, and the light can penetrate the darkness that surrounds you.

Trust in God. And for those of you who feel God has given you dreams, goals, visions...made a promise to you of a better life, or a life of influence...Don't settle for less. Joy comes with the sun rise, and one day you will wake up and God's will has had it's way in your life. If God has promised anything to you, you can be asurred that he will fulfill it in your life. Trust in the Lord and lean not unto your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, and he shall direct your paths. - Proverbs 3:5-6

Go with God. And keep your eyes on Him. He is God over all impossibilty, He is God and you are not. Imagine all that you could do to make good possible, make your dreams possible...God can do far more. Have faith.

Philipians 1:6 - God will complete His good work in You.

 

A Longing Heart: Prose

When there aren't any words, there is a pause in my heart. When there aren't any words, there is a pause in my soul. I can feel it, like a great distancing, I can fill it like the tide that never came in. But, I can't...I just can't wait for the tide...It I don't have words, I don't have my life. Oh, I know, I know where the creativity comes from, I know, I know where the lyrics start. I know, I know, where my sanity comes from...it's sown and harvested in your heart. And I've tried to understand it, I've tried to keep on going, but without your divine inspiration, I can feel my gears slowing. Why don't I just go for a reload in fuel? Why do I run it out to the very last gallon? It's as if the station was a fragment of my imagination, I know it's there, but I keep on racing.

But I know life is not a 'rat race', yet I try to believe it to be true...If only I didn't feel the constant ignition in my mind to just do, do, do. And it's not the same as being active like an athlete, it's deep down in my stomach, where no one can see it. It's a churning for fulfillment, like a hamster on his wheel; he runs to no goal in sight, and yet he can't stop for what is real. I know what it all comes down to, I know what it is I seek. It's the truth that I need to ignite me, it's love that I need to calm me, and slow me down to breathe. Cause deep down inside I'm like the hamster on his wheel, I need the gospel to cut past my bubble, and take me further than I feel.

Nothing can fill, but Jesus himself. You can travel the world, ride high on a balloon, or even mount an elephant, but nothing can fill the heart that longs for it's true love, no nothing, it just can't. You can run away from your making,you can try to escape, but there will always be a timer ticking in your soul, just waiting for the day...

  I've heard that God is beckoning from His place on high, and that He comes down to every man and can open up his eyes. I've seen the Master's hand, I've read the words so true...yet why is it that every once in awhile I feel the weight of what it's like with only a "gallon" of you? It's ridiculous in a way, cause why don't I just take the time to fill? I get frustrated at our connection when, it's only my own time that I've got to kill. And I've made myself a servant of my own demand of your time, and I repent for my doubts, as if it's all required to fit 'my' own mind. But, perhaps you could have mercy and consider where I am? Sometimes I wish I'd just shut up, and wait patiently on your hand. And if I had the choice, I know I'd pick your majesty, but you know that I'm selfish and could tend to worship the 'produce' instead of the 'Guarantee'.

So here I am again, my only truly devoted friend. Your lovely, and your awesome, and yet I stand here with empty hands. And in times of darkness I have doubted that you want to fill my heart, but when I look back on those moments, I think it was truly my 'self' that reflected on what I thought was 'your' part.  Please open up your word, open up these eyes, and run away the complacency, run away the lies. I'm a sick soul, without the grace to fill, I'm a blank canvas, with a gaudy frame. Because no matter how much I run, no matter how  much I scrape, all my ambitions will only work to make the 'filler' and not the 'cake'.

And I don't want to live a life that's 'meatless', a life without the 'weight', I don't want to build up my own world, and not your body...for your name's sake. And I sometimes I wish it was instantaneous, like you could just breathe it into me, and then I see the endurance, the patience it takes to get down and stay on my knees. And I want a balanced faith, I don't want it all to be too easily attained, but God please have mercy and don't stay away too long, cause It's hard to trust that I'll wake up out of the 'distancing' game.

A heart of longing deep inside...a heart wanting to lay down the pride...a heart that needs you to survive...here I am...make it rehabilitation...let me remember the joy of my salvation...God I ask for a heavenly visitation...just You...take it from here...here's my doubts, here's my fears...run away the lies, and open these new skies...the horizon awaits, and I know it's there...a purpose, and fulfillment in you...that doesn't die 'anywhere'. And take this longing heart, and make it into a piece or art. Be the produce of my life, and paint it with your colors. That everywhere I may leave a trail or reflections of Your light...that the colors may be bright...and point to you.

Poetry Again: The "Business" of Being

                                                        ~ The Business of Being ~                                                  9/24/12

There is a gift, a gift of sound...it travels lightly, above the ground. It follows closely to every word, it travels freely from the beaks of the birds. The gift of sound jumps up the steps, of black and white keys, and escapes in yelps. The gift of sound breaks way from the wind, in the echo of the motor, or the splash of a fin. Over ground, and under water, from the voices of our sons and daughters.

There is a gift, a gift of hearing..it's possessed by the ones who can see, sounds of subtle - similarity.

There is a gift, a gift of sight...it awakes in the morning light. It shows it's self even in the dark, by the shine of the tiniest spark. It pierces through the open soul, when used to imagine the invisible. The gift of sight paints color, blues, and golden, towers and boulders. It drops it's wrapping at the moment of birth, eyes are opened and worlds break forth.

There is a gift, a gift of seeing...it's used by the ones who can hear, angles and images call their names, and reflect imagination's happy tears.

There is a present, a present of touch...it arouses understanding in the heart of us. It waits along the potter's wheel, until soft hands advance, and feel. The present of touch dances on electricity, through ones fingers, and rises on hair's end. The present of touch grabs for your hand, it brushes against the legs of your pants, it pats it's great tail and falls in your lap. Like a kitty, it purrs, and relaxes.

There is a present, a present of feeling...it can be owned by the heart of a person, unwilling.  It can open our eyes, and stuff up our ears, and un-noticeably associate with the memories of past years.

There is a present, a present of motion...it sways back and forth, like the waves of an ocean. It slides up and down the slanted desk, it ripples, and prances in the skirts of a dress. It raises it's arm, and lifts up it's chin, it  pliés, and curtsies, and whirls like the wind. The present of motion blows in the sail, and presents it's self to the sailor who has awaited it's bail. 

There is a joy, a joy of acting...it picks up the senses, and gets your laziness packing. It is the accumulation of sight, smell and sound; motion moves it's legs around and around. It'll walk on sidewalks, and romps through the woods, it even flies with the arrow of  the good ol' Robin Hood. The present of acting, or doing, or being...it is the poetry of the gifts we've been given.

There is a joy, a joy of life...there is a joy, a joy of being alive. It is realized by the individuals who see it as being worth the while. They are the ones who take advantage of it's many gifts, and breath, and move, and thank God with it's "business"...

~ AJ. Childs

First Place in the Original Screenplay Contest!

Hello Folks!

This past week I've spent at the 'Gideon' film conference and festival...It's a great week of film classes, fellowship, networking, and Christian films!
This year I entered into the Original Screenplay Contest at Gideon. Over this past year I've finished my first feature film length screenplay...it was something that I'd been hoping to do since the original story concept popped into my head. Entering into the contest might not sound very daunting, but it was...the hardest part was the night right before the day I was going to send it in. Errors kept occurring, my printer was acting up, and I took one look at my screenplay and thought (as well as verbalized) that it was just not happening...
Well, things worked out and I did actually get it sent in before the deadline, relief...
To my great surprise I received an email a month or so later saying my screenplay was one of the finalists! Unbelievable. Third place was fine with me, I mean after all...it was my first full length screenplay.

The final judging/announcement would take place on one of the last days of 'Gideon', at the banquet. In the days leading up to the banquet at Gideon, I didn't think too much about the my placing in the contest. Being a finalist, in all honesty, was big enough in it's self! But then, there was that one moment...when I was sitting in the audience at one of the services at Gideon, and I heard the Speaker talking about "Great things happen at Gideon...and God makes great things happen for those who seek Him first...and I thought, is it really possible that God would let me win the screenplay competition? I didn't dwell on it much, after all, God had a lot to make happen for each of the individuals there. Did he really have enough time and room to consider me?

The night of the banquet me, my mom and my brother, as well as quite a few other Gideonites, (including  another one of the Screenplay finalists) got stuck together in the elevator. As the seconds turned into minutes, the panic rushed inside...well, how dramatic...an elevator death... Was I never actually going to get to the banquet to go up for my award?

And then the door opened, and I made my way to the banquet hall, then into the room...a bit late, but I'd made it none the less.

The first contest announcements were for the Music contest...and then they would announce the Original Screenplay Winners. I began to shake, suddenly I had no appetite for the fine meal in front of me...even if it was spaghetti...I hadn't expected to get so excited and nervous...but it was happening. The music finalists took their awards, and the 3rd place screenplay winner was announced. I was surprised, it wasn't me. The man who announced the contest winners, asked for the other screenplay finalists to come stand by the stage, to be ready to come up when called. I walked in front of the small stage, and stood by one of the spot light stands. Second place was announced, it went to a man who wasn't able to attend. Suddenly, where there probably should have been emotional explosion, a peace came over me. I'd won. The announcer spoke into his mic, "And the winner for the Original Screenplay Contest is...Anjelica Childs..." You couldn't hear the rest of his sentence, because of the reaction of the audience..."for her screenplay 'Alone in the Midst' "...I heard many people not only clapping for me as I went to get my award, but cheering as well!

I knew what I wanted to say on stage, but strangely I wasn't given the opportunity to give a speech. I was going to thank 'Gideon' for the opportunity, my Mom for encouraging me to 'go for it' and not give up...and then, most importantly, I wanted to thank God...for the inspiration, and for His blessings. After all, it was He who'd made it a reality...not long after the banquet, I discovered that my friends were praying for me to the win the contest, which I didn't previous know...I knew God had given me a gift, He'd known the desire of my heart, and He'd answered my question; "Yes, I do care for each individual personally...I care about each individual's desires...And I will give you the desires of your heart, and bless you... if you put Me first."

God is soo good. It's not the actual 'winning' or receiving 'awards' that made me consider that, but the fact that God 'cared enough' to consider my little desires...when it light of bigger things, winning a contest is so very small. But God, loves us, and he cares about the desires of our hearts.

So...don't give up! In everything you do, do it to the best of your ability...and then, let God take care of the rest. I think the answer to winning, and the answer to truly succeeding in this life, is not to 'want to be successful' above all else...God tests our hearts, and sees the desires of our hearts...But if we let our desires, career, or anything for that matter become more important to us than Christ himself...than I doubt he shall answer our prayers for what we want, or readily give us the desires of our hearts. That is why the Bible says that if we "Put first he kingdom of God, 'then' all these things shall be added unto you"; in other words God says "I will give you the desires of your heart, if in fact, I am the first desire....or your desires are not soooo important to you. If I can see that you can be satisfied with little, I will give you much."

 Wow...this is so powerful, and so convicting...I know I definitely haven't "arrived". The fact is I'm so undeserving of the good God gives...I'm unworthy of any of the good he gives me.  I know I trusted Him in this one area, but sometimes, and I think most any artist can relate...I feel like my projects get more time than my actual 'time alone with God'. And then I know there is a balance to that, because sometimes as artists...our 'alone time with God' is actually the time when we are 'creating'...and that is when we hear from him, and share him the most...through our art.

Anyhow, keep working hard at your goals reader, and trust in the Lord with all your heart...in all your ways acknowledge him, and He shall direct your paths...God is good. Bless him, and give him the glory for all your successes, and remember...He is 'your' creator, and you are his project. May we be molded like clay into the image and character of our God  who loved us enough to never give up, 'on us'.

My Review of the Yeti Pro Blue Mic

Hey folks! I just thought I'd give you a follow up on the recording mic I purchased months back...I said I was going to give a review on it, and so I am!

As you can tell Blue's Yeti Pro mic is very professional in appearance...and to no surprise- professional on the inside as well! Needless to say this was the very first USB Recording Mic I've purchased, but I'm hoping it will be my last!
When I first came across the Yeti Pro, I was torn in the decision between buying the 'Pro' or just the standard 'Yeti'. Why? Price...But everywhere I looked people were saying they'd bought the 'Yeti Pro' and recommended it. So, I went with the Pro. It took me awhile to actually try it out, but last week I put it to use! I had a friend come by that has some experience in audio recording/editing (more than I have) and together we discovered the power of this beautiful mic. I'm yet to try out all the settings and mess around with editing, but 4 hours were graciously donated to the understanding and experimenting of this mic.

First off, I will start by saying that when my friend and I first tested it out for recording we tried instrument and voice separately. Both the instrumental audio and the voice audio sounded a bit high at first, and I'm not exactly sure why. But after playing around with Audacity for a bit, the problem was worked out, and the true heart of the Yeti pro shown through. It was clear, accurate audio recording. Next, we tried recording both instrument and vocals at the same time. At first I wasn't sure how well that would work out, but with some testing I soon discovered that the Yeti Pro was well equipped to do that too! Over all the Yeti Pro proved it's self all that I hoped it would be!

I bought it with the purpose in mind to record the songs that I've composed/written. I also wanted a mic that I could plug in and record easily without much hassle...something I could use to record both instrument and vocal simultaneously, and it still end up not sounding like I recorded it with a hand held recording device. Jack pot! this mic was the answer to my prayers.

Now, I'm yet to try it out on a podcast, but from what I can tell and have read in other reviews, the Yeti Pro is great for voice overs and interviews...

What I like best about this mic is it's simplicity and it's ability to accommodate on the go, or un-planned recording. I like tech tools that you can whip out and use as soon as the inspiration hits, and this mic is a mini recording studio in it's self. So, my dreams of making my frist album might be coming true sooner than I thought! I'm going to try and upload a sample of the sound of this mic soon, until then, I hope you liked this little introduction to my newest piece of equipment!
Cheers!

A Word of Encouragment to the Artist

"No one can take your place...There is only one you." We artists who step into artistic society need to never forget that truth. You may meet those along the road who can paint better than you, who can write better than you, who can do whatever art you do better than you do....but don't let this get you down and out...the truth is art should be, and is...above all else...an expression of the artist...if art revolved souly around skill I doubt it would still be alive today.

Yes, skill is important for the success of an artist to a degree, but the truth is 'creativity' and art that is 'personal expression'...even if it is not accepted by others, is not worthless....because it is your freedom, your liberty, as an artist to express yourself, even if it's not as skillful as your neighbor's art! (Just don't push it on anybody else, or be prideful in it. Cause then, honestly, I would have something else to say to you hehe ;-)
. But, keep in mind that God has given us liberty... Even if we can't sing, God wants to hear our voice, even if we can't paint it doesn't mean we don't have the right to paint all we want...the truth is beauty comes from the inside out...and sometimes the way we see people, is the way we see art....

A note to the Artist tonight; Be yourself, and create even when no one sees, and no one will ever see what you create. Create even when it is not perfect...keep creating...it's your right...and it can only get better...practice takes bravery, because it takes courage and a certain about of  'freedom' to forget about the world, express yourself, and keep your eyes on Christ. This is a shout out to anyone who might be battling some perfectionism in their art, or lack of confidence in the worth of what they do. God knows your heart! and if you're o.k with that, then man create all you want, and let no one tell you that you can't go far...

A video I made of Lecrae speaking about the Gospel :-)

I have soo much footage from the Atlanta Christian Music Festival this year...

The 116 Clique was there, as was Toby Mac, Royal Taylor, Jeremy Camp and Casting Crowns, just to name a few. But I really think that LeCrae was a big attraction for the majority of people there, and this is a video of him speaking/preaching. Keep your eyes open for more videos of Lecrae in the near future ;)... Enjoy!

The Nature Art of Shadow and Rhyme

Read First:
 This is what you call sitting down, and trying to rhyme and write without any purpose in mind. Haha, it came out kindof funny....
                                             
                                                 The Nature Art of  Shadow and Rhyme.

Too many words have been shared. But it just won't go away, this feeling to outlet, this feeling to let my thoughts stray. And suddenly I realize, life is like a stream, rushing by me, and cooling off my feet. I see a bridge, in the distance, shadowed by the willow tree, weeping with emotion, beckoning me.

Nature comes alive, and rises with the sun, the sparkle of it's glow lingers long after it has gone.Winged creatures fly and whiz about my head, the water rises round me as I drop into it like my bed. I catch a glimpse of berries growing near the fence, ripening in the summer air, desirable and fair. I try to settle my thoughts, and sit along the shore, my ankles float in water, and my eyes close.

 The wind comes up behind me and blows against my skin, I sigh and take a breather as I forget where my mind has been. Is it bad to ponder to the point of seeming strange? Is it bad to wander into the land of dreams? Perhaps if I was wiser I stay away from this land, where there is never ending imagination and strangers run hand in hand. But I am not caged to the status of the still, nor am I afraid of bliss forever more.

Angels play melodies that get stuck within my soul, and as I sit in ecstasy, I toss pebbles in the water. Words weave between the trees, like banners of color they capture my eyes; these words are the colors of the artists supply, never ending, and like paint that never dries. I use them upon the brush of my thoughts, they go where I want and are heard without scoff.

 Memories try to drag me down into the valley of rain, but they cannot do so because I let them drain, even though they attempt to drive me insane... I whirl my rapper of caution and feel the freedom of my escape as I drop to my knees. Ahh, the loveliness of having purpose, ahh the loveliness of never feeling pain, ahh the loveliness of not caring what is said, nor crippling over vain anxieties.

 I dash off into the fields of sunflower, and realize that the sun is setting from the pass of hours. I run free, wild, and run up the road to the white picked fence. The fire flies guide me up the lane, the toads cry out from the pond, in the nearby valley of grain. Their golden heads of hair sway with the breeze, I catch a few in between my fingers as I pass by them in my speed.

And then I see it, the fall of what I feared, the revelation of what I'm doing, that I'm acting kind of weird. All of this fun, all the this fanciful chase, what is it for? where is my place? I've run round the globe seeing the beauty of life, realizing the wonder of what some others have passed by, but although there is awe in the doing of such, I realize that truly, it isn't enough.

The words disappear, the creek runs dry, the fireflies disappear, and the butterfly dies. I sit down on the dirt, ready to cry, but I cannot for the glimmer of hope passing by. I look out between the blades of wheat, and see the souls of a wander's dirty feet. He looks down at me and shares a grin, then reaches out a hand to help me up to him. I question how could he, when I am so low, surely he could consider letting me sit here and moan. But nevertheless, he bends close and whispers in my ear, "Hello, I am reality, but I'm not as bad as the loneliness you feel."

 I feel hope, then suddenly afraid...can he see that deep down inside, my mind has been made? I try to brush off the dust from my dress, and act like I don't know I'm looking a mess. I pin back my bangs at the high of my ear, and lift up my chin and look up to his eyes. And what I saw there took my for surprise, for looking right back I see the mirror of time, he was my shadow, and I was his rhyme.

This had all been a fine, fancy, game. My thoughts had wandered and come back round again. Was it all for the sake of escape? I'm still by the water, my hands on my face. I look out beyond the blinds on my eyes, and stop my creative wandering, and wave goodbye to my friend of  rhyme. But, it will be o.k, I'll make it just fine, cause I'll take the long rout home on the back road of pines, and all along I'll let my mind be still, cause I won't remember a bit of the journey, until...I see the shadow, and I take the notion...to lose myself in the rhymer's potion.

Pity me, pity me, I cannot get up, I've let me mind wander, and now I'll be paying it rough. Too many words have been shared, now I'll go hiding from the reader's stare. It's all been fun, but now it is through...I've disappeared with the sunlight, and now so shall you...

~ AJ. Childs

The Inner Storm of Loneliness

There comes a time in our lives when we realize that there is none faithful, and there is none truly 'all loving' but Jesus Christ himself. Even those who we are the closest with. And it's not always because a friend has forsaken us, or something terrible has happened to bring us to this realization, it's just life it's self, and this longing for fellowship and close friendship that you know that your friends, family, loved ones, just can't fill. The truth is when we spend time away from prayer, study and our secret place with God, we start to feel all alone, and we start to panic inside. Something is missing, something is wrong, and yet why is it so hard to go back to the corner and get on one's knees and confide in God? Why is it when we really need God, we go to other people instead?
The truth is life can be like a storm; waves of confusion and dark clouds of distress, nothing is certain, no one can be counted on to be there when you 'really' need them. Actually, it seems like when we really need a friend, that is when they are not around. When suddenly, we are at our worst and need to sit down and receive a reply from a pal, there is none. I think the reality is we just need Christ, and we are so darn blind to the fact that when we are the neediest, God holds the greatest fulfillment. And honestly, it is when we are at our neediest that we seem the most repulsive. People begin to think that you are trying to cling to them, or expect what they cannot or shouldn't have to give. And as we all know there are different sorts and types of friendships in this life.
 Overall, I don't blame God for leaving us in these sort of situations though, when we feel alone...because when we are at our neediest point, God knows that what we really 'need' is Him. He is the greatest 'filler'. The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want...Lord, teach us to find our 'fulfillment' in You, to find our peace in You. I ask that You would have mercy on me, and bless all those that I know. I pray that loneliness would be surrendered for peace. Calm the storm of hurt, confusion, fear, loss, and doubt in my mind tonight. You know what I've been through before this moment, you know my anxieties, you know how this heart full of care beats for all I cross paths with in this life. I will never let go...You see the emptiness in loneliness...Lord, here I come. Down on my knees, heart bore out. Here my cries, have compassion on my inner storm. Calm it with your hands, Let me lie down beside still waters...where you restore my soul, and my peace. You are the friend of my heart, you are the love of my life, here I am, arms held high, touch this mind. You know me, in and out, there is never a misunderstanding between us. Therefore you see my need just as it is, and you usher me into your presence. Let's talk God...

               
               

My Idea: A New Web Site ~ Please Comment ;-)

O.k! Soo. As I have already mentioned in a previous blog post; I have this super idea 'weighing' on me ;) You ready to hear what it is? *drum roll*

Alright. I would like to make a web site for Artists. Sounds a bit mundane? Let me explain to you why I think it would be amazing. It's a site for Christian Artists of all, mediums, experience...aspiring artists, young artists...etc...To come together and

1. Connect with other Christian Artists...those who live near 'and' far :P
2. Encourage each other in Christ Centered Creativity
3. Inspire each other to Create with beauty
4. To collaborate each others skills and talents, and make amazing projects
5. And last, but not least...and a big thing that inspired me in the first place\
'To further God's kingdom, by sticking our heads out of our 'own creative worlds'
and making a mark on the world, the enternet, our communities, and even participate
in building up the body of Christ)  in Christ Centered Creativity! Whoot! ;-)

O.k. So for what reasons do I think this would be beneficial as well as super cool?

1. For me as well as fellow Christian Artists and craftsmen to join together.
I think it is easy for us creative people to forget that we are 'not' alone in our creativity.
We tend to either think that we are different from the mundane 'rest of the world' hehe,
or we forget as other brethren in Christ, that we need each other, and that there 'are' other
Artists who want to keep Christ Centered in their Creativity!

20For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.”  ~ Matthew 18:20

 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. 25Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. ~Heb 10:24-25

The Bible even mentions quite a few times about Creavitiy, that invloved
skilled, artistic, believers -collaborating for the greater good, and for the purpose of building
God's 'temple' or in our case 'futhering the kingdom of God' (spreding the good news).
Exodus 35: 31 and 36:1
³¹And he hath filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship;

1So Bezalel, Oholiab and every skilled person to whom the Lord has given skill and ability to know how to carry out all the work of constructing the sanctuary are to do the work just as the Lord has commanded.”

2.Together we can encourage each other in our creativity. Not only encourage/uplift each other in Christ...but (possibly even help broaden and perfect our creative abilities). I also think this would be a great site to keep each other accountable, and Christ Centered in our creativity. Us Artists have a tendency to stray, and get caught up in the art of this world, or just in 'our own creativity' that we forget that what God has given us is to be shared! even with our fellow brethren in Christ!

The Artist has a GREAT purpose. But sometimes it is easy to forget what that truly is, and/or become selfish or 'self centered' in our creativity. Creativity is not supposed to be kept to a 'one man' or 'self' status...Creativity is the most beautiful when it is a collaboration, when it is a project of more than one, when everyone uses their talents and joins in to worship, or serve the Creator of the Universe.

12The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body.....20As it is, there are many parts, but one body.  ~ 1 Cor 12

3. We can encourage each other to create with true beauty in mind. And not to get caught up in the 'crazy art' of this world, or get bogged down with the lies or darkness of the evil one. We can encourage each other to keep the Light as our guide, and help dance each other out of the dark places in our lives, that shows in our artwork. To keep beauty in mind, to keep Christ on the throne or our hearts, and not let self centeredness, (the ugliness of sin, or the Enemies lies and temptation rule over us) And the truth shall set us free! John 8:32
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. 3If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. 4Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else...Galatians 6:3-4

4. Collaboration is amazing. I love it. I desire it. I know that there are some of us who like to create more on our owns, inspired by own personal thoughts...I'm more the type of person who likes to create, but in order to truly create something of worth or purpose I usually desire or need to be inspired by another person or their personal 'need' (either for encouragement etc.)
Creativity is part of my ministry. And that when I am most inspired to create... and that is when God uses my creativity the most... when I am calling out to Him, or I am motivated by another person's need or out of thought of them and what they like haha.
I thrive in the atmosphere of collaboration. I really appreciate other peoples art and talents, and love to see God working through them. Even when people do not realize that they have a gift, or are stubborn in their use of it for personal gain, I like to remind them that they have something special 'not' to be kept by their own 'mastery'. God is the giver of all good things. Let us glorify Him!

5. I observe, and I admit...we Artists have a tendency for selfishness. You're probably thinking right now if you are an Artist 'No we don't, I'm not selfish' lol, but Hey! I'm not saying 'your' selfish...I'm just saying that a good majority of us Artists have to fight selfishness, or seem to default to selfishness...'Because' there are not other artists around them encouraging us to step out of our comfort zones, or there is no 'Purpose'. Where there is no vision the people perish ~ Prov 29:18  or in the Artist's case 'Where there is no vision (greater purpose/goal) the the Artist hermits,( introverts), and where there is no vision for the Artist, the people get deprived...either deprived of good, strong, beautiful art...or most importantly, deprived of the message behind the art. And this is where we have so much 'bad' art leading and influencing society, because some of us Christians are not joining together for Christ, and to proclaim the good news! (share the Gospel reference)
Satan and his demons gather together for his purposes. We need to re-attach ourselves to God, trust 'His' leading, surrender to Him, and gather with other Christian Artists for the greater purpose, and greater good.
And I'm not saying that we need to get with other artists now and start grafting on the billboards, or go paint giant paintings to get people to come to Christ...this site is actually a bit different in the sense that I would like for it to be a site that just encourages us to keep connected, encouraged, focused on Jesus Christ/ and in our Creativity...And, to collaborate on 'small' projects (even if just to start out with) Cause, who knows where God can take his Artists ;-)

For Example: I have a few Artistic friends, most of which want to start using their talents for a bigger purpose; to glorify Christ.
What I want to do with this site, is to put up little challenges - to inspire us to start creating (or in some cases 'continue' creating) with Christ as the center. Like I think it would be cool, to paste up a scripture verse (nothing too lengthy) and ask the Artists to think about what it means to them, and paint something, write a song, write a poem, draw something, make a short video, based off of the scripture.

And I know. I really do know. That life is SUPER busy. And you might ask 'is there really any time in our artistic lives for a site like this?' And I want to say; 'yes'.
You see, not to mention  whether we recognize it or not, us really 'creative folks' and 'Artists' seem to always be creating, or else we 'want' to be lol. What I think we need to do, is refocus our creative priorities, and ask ourselves what is the most important thing in my creative life? Is it just painting little trifles to pass the time? Is it just writing songs about 'me' and 'my personal desires'? 'How am I using my creativity for the better good"? and 'How can I start using it for a greater purpose than my own personal enjoyment and actually start glorifying God with it more?'
I'm not saying we cant ever use our creativity just for our own enjoyment and recreation at times, but what we need to realize is that unless we start moving beyond that, we will be caging in our creativity from truly soaring. This site would just be practice for that as well.
We need to start giving more thought to our creative time. Yes, we love the fact that creativity is free, and we do not have to have tons of personal boundaries, but honestly unless we learn to tone it down to focus on 'what really matters' we will not use it for the best of it's ability.

I think this site can help us do that. But, I don't want you readers to think it would only be limited to collaborating. Although I think it would be a blessing for us to start sharing our creativity with others inside our artistic commnities, and outside them ;) I want you to know, that this would not be an 'obligation'. I would want Artists to join even if you think you wouldn't be able to collaborate, or contribute at all. Let's encourage eachother in Christ Centered Creativity. Keep if fun - but also to 'go hard' ( for Christ's purpose) 'not waste' ( our talents/gifts) and 'keep real'! (and true in our creativity)

So, what do you think? What are you questions? What are your thoughts? Would you enjoy something like this? Do you think it would be a personal benifit? Would you join the Creative round table for Christ?

Let me know! I 'need' your feeback.

Plus, I need your creativity :P If this idea is a runner, then I could always use some recommendations for site service, or help putting something like this together.

God Bless! Please leave a comment bellow with your thoughts. :)
~ AJ.

Idea of Giant Proportion

Wow. I think I have a great idea, and I'm excited to share it with those who read this blog. It's gonna be a change, it's gonna be new, and it's gonna be big. Keep your eyes open for further info! :D ;) haha

Clues wrapped up in these questions:

Have you ever wanted to connect and know other Christian Artists? but perhaps you think that there aren't any in your area? or maybe you would like to connect with other artists who live far away? Could you use some Creative Encouragement? Do you dream of collaborating with other Artists?

Just A Personal Update

Hello Readers :)

I just thought I'd give a personal update. I've got a few things I look forward to sharing with this blog. First of all I have recently purchased a really nice USB Mic for recording, so keep your look out for a review about that in the future; also with the purchase of this mic, I hope to record some more of my music and make some more music videos to share. I've also been in the process of screenwriting, and video editing a lot lately as well as doing some silhouette art. I've got some big dates coming up this summer, as I'll be attending a big Christian Music Festival which I hope to photograph haha, and also a Film Conference and Festival which I'm looking forward to. Anyhow, just thought I'd ramble a bit about my plans lol.

Do any of you readers want to share some of your creative plans? Anything big happening in your artistic worlds? The Lord bless you and guide you all into deeper Spirit led Creativity. Go Hard! Don't waste! Keep real!

Religion in Art: Searching the heart of the Artist

I cannot stress enough how much art is a reflection of the heart of the Artist. There are those that think art is a very random thing, and perhaps that 'is' how they handle it, but as some of us know...art is more like a beautiful yet, powerful weapon. It can be used for good or for evil, for selfish causes, or good causes...but no matter what the artist uses his art to communicate, or for what purposes he uses it, art is 'always' an expression of the heart of the Artist.
Some things that it proclaims most blatantly is the 'goal' of the artist, the 'philosophies' of the artist, the 'world-view' of the artist, the 'religion' of the artist and the artist opinions on beauty and what the meaning of life is to he or she.

What it the center of your universe? Your art will show it. What is the longing of your soul? Your art may show that too.

This may be a touchy topic for some, because there are those who are Artists, who even though they are 'Christians'...like to think of art as an area of neutrality, and area in which nothing is taboo, and 'anything goes'. The common reply uttered when someone outside their circle tries to communicate that some of their art is just not 'right' is that "It's just art"...My question is since when did art become only a matter of 'talent' and not a matter of 'morality'? Or perhaps art has had some bad contributions from the start...

Gen 11 tells about the story of the tower of babel. From what I can tell the point of the story is that man joined together can almost accomplish whatever he puts his mind to do if, he has enough people working along side him...whether for good or for evil. Even so, God is still in charge. This story tells about people wanting to 'build a tower to the sky'. One of the big problems with these people, and with a lot of us artists today is we think that because we are creative or talented that we can 'build a tower that reaches the sky' for our own purposes, for our own pride. Remember it is not a 'church' that the people were building in Gen 11 it is just a sky scraper to prove their ingenious talent and skill. It was not for God. But God is not mocked nor does he allow something to happen that he is not for. Beware of thinking you can build your own tower to reach the sky and not fear God. God is over all, and you cannot accomplish anything without Him allowing you to do so.

Here is a flip side to that which was not 'Christ centred ceativity'.

The Hebrew temple was ordained by God, it was of 'His' design.
 Heb 8: 5 ~
⁵Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.

Exodus 35: 31-32
³¹And he hath filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship;
³²And to devise curious works, to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass,
³³And in the cutting of stones, to set them, and in carving of wood, to make any manner of cunning work.
³⁴And he hath put in his heart that he may teach, both he, and Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan.
³⁵Them hath he filled with wisdom of heart, to work all manner of work, of the engraver, and of the cunning workman, and of the embroiderer, in blue, and in purple, in scarlet, and in fine linen, and of the weaver, even of them that do any work, and of those that devise cunning work.
 ³⁶Then wrought Bezaleel and Aholiab, and every wise hearted man, in whom the LORD put wisdom and understanding to know how to work all manner of work for the service of the sanctuary, according to all that the LORD had commanded.

When you read Exodus 36 thru 40 you discover that a lot more creativity went into building the tabernacle/temple than you may have previously imagined...The construction of the ark, the special tables, and curtains, altars and engravings, the courts, the garments, the breastplates, the robes etc etc. It's a big thing. The coolest thing about it is it is one of the only structures and the only 'temple service' that God lead and instructed man to make.

Some of us do not realize how closely art and religion are tied.
If it weren't for art 99.9 percent of all religions would not be as well remembered.
Art is what pushes the religion on into the present and the future. What is left of the "great" Egyptian empire and it's religion? It's art.

Matter of fact. What made up the Egyptian religion? Art. Their gods were made by their own evil creativity, tainted by the enemy. Creativity devoid of 'Jehovah God'. Their gods were 'man made' their religions were 'man made' their after life was pretty much 'man made'.Their religions were based on the 'art of their hearts'.

                                                     What about the Chinese Religion?

                                             

                You guessed it. Art. Art. Art. Man made gods engraved out of stone, paintings etc.

And what about the Mayans?

Many temples, many artifacts = Lots of Art.

Sometimes I wonder if people take art very seriously at all. I believe that there is spirituality in art.

Some people don't see a need for "limiting" their creativity to only "godly" art, they don't have a problem with creating or imitating art that has pagan meanings, or was derived from witchcraft, or any form of paganism.

Definition of Pagan: One of a people or a community observing a  polytheistic religion (the doctrine that there is more than one gods) a person who is non religious, or hedonistic (the life pursuit of pleasure and self gratification) , a person who is not Christian or Jewish,  a person deemed uncivilized or morally indecent.

To a lot of people culture is not significant. And I think the biggest trap for the artist, outside of 'pride', is that of 'paganism'. Just because we learn about different cultures and we go to art school and learn about different forms of art from around the globe, does not mean that all art is equal in the eyes of God, or is acceptable - just because it is 'art'. Tradition is a big thing in the realm of cultural art. When you read about the Hebrew temple and how objects, services, sacrifices, and particular ways of doing things... all have significance... you see that tradition and the physical have a lot more to do with the spiritual than a lot of us give it credit.

How can we tell if the art we like, focusing on, or are creating is God honoring or not?

⁸ Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. ⁹ The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you.

~ Philippians 4:8

And how do we know what is true? How do we decide if something is noble or just? What does it mean to create or admire 'pure' art? Perhaps it is not just 'purity' in the sense of immodesty or sexual immorality that should come to mind when we think of the world 'pure' but also 'pure' in the sense of unblemished and tainted by the world and it's philosophies and it's many false religions. Is our art 'pure' of paganism? Is it pure of witchcraft? Is our art virtuous?

I personally believe that there is not such thing as neutral art. Either your art is good or it is corrupt. Good art does not mean that it has to have an image of Christ  in it, or even a bible verse. But, good art is pure of false religion and false philosophy. I think it's about time that we realize that art has more significance than we may have previously believed.

The sad thing is we have been greatly desensitized by an overload of religious art. I'd say a very great percentage of art and cultural art is 'religious'. Just take the photos in this blog post for example. What a lot of people don't know is that the Mayan temple is where thousands of Mayan children were brutally killed and sacrificed to the 'snake god' and the 'sun god'. I don't want to be too graphic in my explanation, but you see all those steps...that's where they tossed those who were sacrificed after ward. Needless to say after taking deep history lessons on the Mayans and their architecture I cannot barely stand the sight of one of these temples...I know what it stands for, and it's definitely more than a temple, even the 'spiritual' people who are not Christians recognize this...people go there to receive 'powers' from where the sacrifices were taken place, and were not just talking about a few weirdos, were talking lots of 'spiritual' people who 'know' that art is more than bricks and paintings...that spirituality never dies, and the spirituality behind art will continue to effect people and their beliefs as long as the art exists.

Of course the actual paint, stone, etc...isn't powerful...it's the message behind the art, it's the message that it conveys, it's the 'religion' that it preaches.

And what about China's obsession with dragons? Well, just to make it easier I can says that there are a 'lot' of religions that have one of two main gods, if not both: the sun god, and the snake god...seem familiar? Well it is, as is...'human sacrifice'.

And what about all the 'death art'. There was a time when it seemed like a whole lot of folks were into skull art...well so were the Mayans...matter of fact they had most of their temples decked in the deco of skulls, not only real ones, but lots of stone ones. Skulls represent death. That's not hard to figure.

And what about the tattoos, gages, and piercings we see in our culture? I think it's something to consider when you look back at the pagan religions of the Mayans and see that they wore gages, stretched out their ear lobes, and  tattoos were wore by the shamans and only the pagan peoples, who wore them to evoke demons onto them, or to attract others to themselves for immorality...

I do not believe that the Egyptians, nor the Chinese, nor the Mayans (and the list goes on) are, or will be, the only ones to 'create their own religions' and center them on art. I believe that this is happening in the world around us, here in the USA, here in our communities, here in our hearts.

¹⁶For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
¹⁷For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.
¹⁸For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
¹⁹Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.
²⁰For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
²¹Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
²²Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,
²³And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and four footed beasts, and creeping things.
²⁴Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:
²⁵Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
²⁶For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections....
²⁸And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;
²⁹Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,
³⁰Backbiters, haters of God, spiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,
³¹Without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:
³²Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

There is a fine line between culture and religion. I think that is something that we must keep in mind, especially as Artists. The attraction of the artist is to 'creativity' and also to 'culture', that is because 'culture' is a lot of times greatly expressed in and through art and creativity (not always good creativity and many a times 'not' good).
The Artist's desire is to create freely. He does not want any boundaries...but he must beware, one of the biggest sins that the Artist can get sucked in or trapped into is in believing that God does not set boundaries, and that 'he' or 'she' is the 'god' over his or hers, own art, and that they do not have to answer to anyone about their creativity. This is not true. It is so far from the truth. Please remember the tower of babel, and that God will not be mocked nor is is outside the area of art. Man's sinful tendency is to rebel and 'eat' of the fruit of good and evil. The Artist's fallen tendency is to 'dable' in good 'and' evil art. Whether that be 'Humanistic' Art, 'Paganistic' Art, 'Satanic Art' or 'Wordly' Art.

Rom 12:2
²And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

But does it really matter? I think that us Artists need to to answer the call to Artistic purity.
Purity Definition: free from anything that taints, impairs, etc.; unmixed, clear.

 1. freedom from contaminants: the absence, or degree of absence, of anything harmful, inferior, unwanted, or of a different type "tests to establish the purity of the water"

2. innocence: virtue and innocence

"the purity of young children"

3. clarity: clarity of tone or sound

Purity is the freedom and the absence of sin, or anything that 'taints'. Sin is what taints...whether that be the sin of pride, lust etc...or in this case the tainting of false religion in art.

Love the Lord God with all your heart, with all your mind, and with all your strength.

If you do, you will also love Him with all your 'art' :) your art will reflect where your treasure is found...and where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Is your art portraying a confliction in gods? a confliction in desires? a confliction in religions?

What is the religion of your art? What do you want your art to say about you? What battles or paganistic, humanistic, or selfish tendencies in your art, are you fighting or working to remove from your work (art) and your life? A liking or a tendency for dark art? An attraction to pagan traditions? A selfish mindset?

What lies have you believed concerning art? Or about your own art?

Lord, teach us and soften us to be willing to let go our ties to the world, paganism and idols. Lord remove all stubbornness from our hearts to cling to our own pride or put our fleshly desires above obedience to you. Lord, may we see the meaning in what we do, may we recognize why we do what we do. Forgive our attraction to the things of the world, remove our desires and attraction to 'paganistic' traditions and any desire to live for 'selfish ambition'. Instead, fill up our hands, hearts, and art with holiness, purity, and godliness. May we see the power in art, search ourselves and come before you in all humility. I ask that you would have mercy on my brothers and sisters that do not realize the responsibility and power of art. I pray that we would see beyond the surface, and be willing to receive conviction. Lord, my desire is to worship 'you' in my art and to bring others to You. May our art be holy and consecrated unto You.

My Latest Project: Music Video by Anjelica Childs

My latest project :) Enjoy! and let me know what you think...

Music Video by Anjelica Childs (Creativity) Official Music Video (P) (C) 2012
Unauthorized reproduction is a violation of applicable laws.

On the Altar of Art

Have you ever thought or even confessed that above all else that 'art' is the most important thing in your life?
Ha ha, I know, I know you were just joking, or maybe it's not 'the most important thing' but second to 'God' it is. Speaking for myself, I would say no matter if other people don't see the importance or not, Creativity will always be a BIG part of my life. Bigger and more important then sports, shopping, fashion, and yes I must admit...at times even more important than socialization. So, right now you are either one of the those Artist people that understand what I'm saying, or you're thinking that I'm hermit, and I would rather be consumed in my art than with other people'. Which is false...Well, to some extent ha ha.
I've always been the project type of person. And I seriously enjoy being creative and getting caught up in creative projects. I even prefer reaching out through art and basing a lot of my friendships off of creative collision and colaboration. And I know this isn't bad. But I also know that as a human being I should always been ready to check myself and aim for proper balance.

I think a lot of us artists, perhaps even most of us...have the ability/ tendency, to get caught up in our art and artistic expressions. And to a degree this isn't all that wrong, it's just there IS a point where we let art become a demmi god, or our 'all consuming passion' and forget to see things in proper prospective.
The question is how much does art mean to us? There is a place in the mind and affections of the Artistic Person that only Art and Creativity can fill. I don't think we should ever have to give that up. I just think when art and our own artistic expression becomes more important than God or other people, to us...that is where we should step back and re-align our priorities. And I admit that, that is hard. It goes against the 'self focused' worldview of the 'Un-Christian' Artistic Society. Because, sometimes all we artistic people want to do is sit down paint a picture, and block out the world around us, or there are other times we would like to become consumed by our creative projects and goals that we push away people, God, and every thing else life has to offer. We See, Breathe, Drink ~ Art, and we depend more on art and our own selves than we should. The world teaches the Artist to become consumed in our art, and to be selfish in it...how? By not caring about other peoples views, and creating whatever pops into our minds... and to focus too much on our own emotions and feelings, and putting too much emphasis on expressing them.

The hardest thing for the Artist who is a Christian, to learn...is that the most important thing in life is not 'expressing his or hers creativity', but 'reflecting Christ'. I can't say I've passed on all tests. Cause I haven't, and I can't say that being artistically productive has not been more important to me, and (that I haven't given more time to it than I have to eating, breathing, praying, talking...because I have. And I just think that God wants Artists to be balanced and take time to step out of their constant rush of creating, and put some time into their relationships with God. I think it's pretty easy to understand, that just like an Athlete can put too much into their sport, they can push out everything and focus solely on his sport, we Artists can put too much into art, and focus so much on it, and our own creativity that we push out other things in life. We are caught up in our art, and so we don't take the time to sit and spend it with God, or read our bibles, or worship Him, or even reach out to other people, speak to them. I think it is important, whoever we are, that we see the worth of God, Love, and Servitude.

Just like we see the worth of spending our time investing it in artistic  expression, or creative goals, we believe in our Art, and our Artistic goals. God wants us to believe in and see the worth of spending time, and investing it in him and our relationship with him. He also wants us to see the worth of spending time investing it in other people. Sometimes we have to step away from our canvases, put down our instruments, and set down our cameras to come to reality. As much as we can use our creativity to praise God and reach out to others, we must be balanced and learn how to not become selfish and self-focused by getting caught up in our own little creative worlds. Perhaps, God wants to paint us something, or tell us something, but we've been to caught up in painting our own little lives, that we haven't taken the time to appreciate the awesomeness of the Creator of heaven and earth. Whatever the personal case may be, I would like to encourage you to widen your view, expand your horizons and not let art become your your crutch, only friend, and greatest love. Art can't fill your soul, you will always have more to create, or more to consume. Don't sacrifice love for art. It's not worth it, and the 'god of art' cannot give you peace, wisdom, or eternal life. I promise you, as much as it's definitely worth it for the creative person to use his or hers talents and gifts and to bless people with them, and use them for God's glory... You cannot find God just in your art, nor can you just spend your entire life witnessing behind a camera. You've got to be ready in your every step, you've got to build your relationship with God by discovering him through His word, and through Fellowship and Worship. And don't let art become a demmi god, or your only friend. The world needs you, and God wants you.

So have you been giving too much to your art? Art and creativity can be God-honoring and enjoyable, but you can miss out if your eyes have been glued too long on your own art, projects, goals, accomplishments...  Have you been sacrificing too much on the altar of art? Consider.

Some Lyrics from 'Empty My Hands' by Tenth Avenue North
 ....f I let these dreams die
If I lay down all my wounded pride
But if I let these dreams die
Will I find that letting go lets me come alive

Empty my hands
Fill up my heart
Capture my mind with you x2

With you, with you....

Cause my mind is like a building burning down
I need your grace to keep me, keep me from the ground
My heart is just a prisoner of war
A slave to what it wants and what I'm fighting for

So wont you empty my hands
Fill up my heart
Capture my mind with you x2

With you, with you
I need you now Lord, with you.

Art of the Heart: Tattoo History

I thought this was interesting.  Tattooing is known by many artistic people as an 'artistic expression', if not an expression of beauty... Although this might be very rough sounding for those who appreciate tattoos, or have some of their own; It's just sad to think how society is so un-learned about the meaning of  some things. Let us open our hearts to the history of tattoos, and know why we believe what we believe. I would have uploaded some photos to go with this blog post to show more photos of tattoos throughout history, but it seems 99% of all tattoos photos are actually nude/ pornographic, which tells you something doesn't it? Worship of the body...yucks. Not to mention the further interesting fact, that without exaggeration, wherever I looked like 95% of all the tattoos were of proud pagan symbolism or imitation.  Also it's further important to note, that those of modern day who are getting tattoos,  find it addictive, and a 'get high' experience, kind of like a ritual for a 'non-christian' pagan experience. Anyhow, for anyone one who was thinking of getting a little creative tattoo; here's just a shortened insight into the background history and spiritual significance, for ya. Just an interesting bit of information I came across online...

                                                                                  

http://www.biblebelievers.com/watkins_tattoos/pagan.html