The Struggle

Sensitive. Vulnerable. Strong. Fierce.

These are found within the heart of an artist. The sensitive part is where passion is born. The vulnerability brings forth the expression. The strong heart of an artist is what sustains them. The “fierce” fuels the fire that burns within, producing a powerful light they hope will change the world.

And there is one thing we can be sure -

when one is in the business of changing the world, they will always face resistance.

And in between the endeavor and the resistance exists a struggle. And the struggle can be really, really hard - and, it requires one overcoming after another...after another...after another.

You already know this. You know that the resistance comes from different sources. People, places, culture, communities and more show up to hold you back. But, the greatest battle is usually fought in our mind. Our thoughts about ourselves and our craft will make or break the fulfillment of our endeavor.

Artists’ struggles are not the same, but there is some common ground. While God makes each person unique, they also share a common human experience. And God will meet us in this if we call on him to help us. With God on your side, there is no struggle you cannot overcome. With His words in your heart, you will have the power and peace that you need.

When Your Heart is Troubled

I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid. (John 14:27)

When The Pressure is Too Much

We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed. (2 Corinthians 4:8-9)

When You Want to Give Up

So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. (Galatians 6:9)

When You Want to Quit

So do not throw away this confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that he has promised. (Hebrews 10:35-36)

When You Feel Paralyzed by Doubt.

And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them. (Romans 8:28)

When You are Worried You Will Fail

The Lord says, “I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honor them. I will reward them with a long life and give them my salvation. (Psalm 91:14-16)

And there is more.

More encouragement. More direction. More instruction.

All wrapped in the unconditional love of the One who calls you by name. God is with you in your struggle.

You are not alone.