A week ago, I posted about the hidden dangers of art. And yes, there are spiritual dangers to the art, which all are variations of not denying self as Christ told us to (Matt. 16:24; Mark 8:34; Luke 9:23). But is that the only side of the coin?
One thing to keep in mind is that artistic/creative talent is something that originates from God. Why was I able to teach myself piano and guitar but completely lacking in athletics? God's choice. Some state that everybody is born with creativity but education and employment and other things rob it. That may be true, but again God is sovereign on who gets to keep their talents and who doesn't.
But why did God give us talents? Yes, if God gives us talents, He has a purpose for it, and in the end it is for His glory, not ours.
Are you familiar with Bezalel the son of Uri and Aholiab the son of Ahissamach? They were artists that God appointed to make the Tabernacle and its furnishings (Ex. 31:1-11). The former was said to be filled with the Spirit of God, and both were given wisdom. Yes, God uses artists.
Singers and musicians also had a part in a lot of the history. Chenaniah and Asaph were involved in David's days. The singers were mentioned with the Levites and other assistants of the priests in Ezra and Nehemiah.
Art and music are connected with worship. Examples include the pair of paintings I have included in this blog: Adoration of the Lamb by Jan van Eyck (at the top of today's blog) and The Exaltation of the Cross by Adam Eisheimer (left).
However, it has other purposes as well. Colossians 3:16 talks about teaching and exhorting with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. How often does Christian music take up that challenge? Likewise, we sing to the Lord, but do we sing to each other to comfort and encourage?
Now, some may think I'm trying to say that everything a Christian artist/musician does needs to be done for Christians or clearly evangelistic. Nope. Not true. Some Christians may lend their talent to a secular employer. A believer may be an instrumentalist for a mainstream band. The important thing, though, is to realize to Whom each artist (and non-artist) will give an account to, and to realize who deserves the glory.
How are you glorifying God in your daily activities? And how can you encourage others (artists and non-artists) in their ministries?
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