The Thriving Christian Artist

Send us a textGone are the days when artists could simply post pretty pictures and wait for sales to flow in. As we navigate 2025's social media landscape, one truth stands above all: authentic connection trumps content every time.The secret to transforming casual followers into passionate collectors lies not in algorithm hacks or perfect photos, but in genuine, heart-level connection. Today's art buyers crave more than beautiful creations – they want to know the person behind the art, to glimpse your creative process, your family life, your joys and struggles. They're investing in your story as much as your artwork.Each platform offers unique opportunities for this authentic engagement. Facebook remains the conversion powerhouse for the 40+ collector demographic, with personal profiles now getting five times more reach than business pages. Strategic use of Facebook groups and live videos can nurture deeper community connections. On Instagram, carousel posts and stories build intimacy, while sh

Send us a textThe moment your art leaves your studio, something remarkable happens. Beyond metrics and transactions, a supernatural exchange takes place—one that transforms atmospheres, touches hearts, and creates ripples in the spiritual realm.As we explore Matthew 5:14-16, we discover Jesus wasn't speaking metaphorically when He called us "the light of the world." For kingdom artists, this becomes a powerful commissioning: your creative expression isn't meant to be hidden away but strategically positioned like a lamp on a stand, illuminating darkness wherever it goes.What sets spirit-led creativity apart isn't perfectionism or promotional savvy—it's authenticity. Like a campfire's warmth or a candle's gentle glow in a dark room, your art carries God's presence naturally when created from a place of connection with Him. I've witnessed countless stories of artists who, simply by being faithful to create and share their work, have seen God use their art to brin

Send us a textEver felt guilty for "just playing around" in your studio when there are commissions to complete and deadlines to meet? What if those moments of joyful experimentation are actually essential to your artistic growth and spiritual journey?Drawing from my own artistic evolution, I share how seemingly random creative play—from fiddling with natural materials found while gardening to trying encaustic wax techniques—has repeatedly transformed my work in unexpected ways. These weren't calculated business moves but simply responses to curiosity that the Holy Spirit used to breathe new dimensions into my practice. The materials and techniques I stumbled upon during "unproductive" studio time eventually became defining elements of my artistic voice.There's profound spiritual significance in creative experimentation. When Jesus said we must "come as little children" to enter the kingdom, he highlighted the very qualities that make creative play so powerful: wonder, o

Send us a textThe frustrating wall of creative emptiness hits every artist at some point - that moment when you walk into your studio excited to create, only to find nothing comes. But what if these creative blocks aren't random? What if they're signaling something deeper happening within you?Drawing from over three decades of artistic experience and mentoring countless creatives, Matt Tommey unpacks the three primary sources of creative blocks: spiritual issues, internal mental clutter, and practical inspiration deficits. He reveals how feelings of fear, anxiety, doubt and inadequacy often mask spiritual lies that need to be confronted with biblical truth. When we recognize these thoughts as contrary to God's Word, we can take them captive and replace them with truth that sets our creativity free.Beyond internal struggles, Matt addresses the reality of spiritual warfare in the creative process. When artists collaborate with the Holy Spirit, they become dangerous to the enemy's agenda, rel

Send us a textDaydreaming gets a bad rap, especially among creatives striving for focus and productivity. But what if that wandering mind could actually become your greatest creative asset?Science reveals our minds naturally wander nearly half our waking hours. For artists, this can feel like a frustrating distraction—yet there's a profound difference between harmful mind-wandering and intentional, holy imagination. This episode explores how shifting your daydreaming from anxious rumination to Spirit-led contemplation can transform your entire creative process.When we invite the Holy Spirit into those quiet spaces of our imagination, something remarkable happens. Our studios become sanctuaries. Our creative process becomes communion. Our art carries not just beauty but healing, peace, and prophetic insight. As Philippians 4:8 guides us to fix our thoughts on what is true, honorable, and lovely, we discover a scriptural foundation for holy daydreaming that aligns perfectly with neuroscience.Through practi

Send us a textHave you ever wondered why singing worship songs or praying aloud makes you feel physically better? There's a fascinating neurological reason behind it, and it's all part of God's incredible design for your well-being.The vagus nerve—running from your brainstem through your face, vocal cords, heart, lungs, and digestive system—is your body's built-in peace activator. Research shows that singing and praying aloud are two of the most powerful ways to stimulate this nerve, releasing calm throughout your entire being. It's biological proof of what scripture has always taught: expressing worship isn't just spiritually beneficial—it physically transforms your body.When Paul and Silas were imprisoned in Acts 16, they didn't just silently hope for rescue. They sang hymns, literally activating God's designed pathways for peace in their darkest moment. Their breakthrough wasn't just spiritual; it was neurological. Similarly, when you're battling anxiety or

Send us a textEver felt that creative spark and wondered where it truly comes from? Your studio isn't just a workspace—it's potentially sacred ground where divine partnership happens.The concept of sacred creative spaces has deep biblical roots. In Exodus, we see artisans Bezalel and Oholiab filled with God's Spirit to create objects that would transmit His presence throughout their community. Like them, you've been gifted with creativity that flows directly from the Creator Himself. Whether you work in a dedicated studio or a quiet corner of your home, that space holds potential for divine encounter.Hebrew gives us beautiful insight into creativity through two interconnected words: "yetser" (internal formation/imagination) and "yatsar" (external creation/crafting). Both spring from the same root word meaning "to form or fashion," revealing how creativity moves from inside out—just like God's kingdom operates in our lives. Your studio becomes the meeting

Send us a textAre you an ENT artist—creating Every Now and Then whenever inspiration strikes? You're not alone. After mentoring artists for over 16 years, I've discovered the critical difference between those who merely dabble and those who truly thrive isn't talent—it's consistent, intentional habits.The Core4 Focus Framework™ has transformed thousands of artists' lives, and today I'm breaking it down for you. First, Connect with God daily—not as a spiritual checkbox, but as the wellspring of your creativity. When you journal, declare biblical affirmations, and rehearse God's promises, you're establishing the foundation for everything else. As Jesus said, "Apart from me, you can do nothing."Second, Clarify your focus each day in God's presence. Use your divine imagination as an internal artist's studio where God plants and nurtures ideas. Third, Create consistently—whether it's 15 minutes or several hours. Showing up in your studio is like rais

Send us a textYour story matters—every bit of it. Not just the polished highlight reels we share on social media, but the beautiful parts, the broken moments, the victories, and even the chapters we'd rather erase. God intentionally crafted you as His masterpiece, designed with purpose and a unique story He delights in.When David wrote "I am fearfully and wonderfully made" in Psalm 139, he wasn't simply acknowledging basic human design. He was expressing awe at how intimately and intricately God created each of us. The same Creator who spoke galaxies into existence took time to weave you together with all your nuances, gifts, passions, and quirks. You are not random or accidental—you are handcrafted by the Lord with divine intention.Many artists believe their struggles disqualify them from creating meaningful work or sharing their journey. Yet those very experiences that tried to break you often become your most powerful creative fuel. God uses all things—not just the pretty parts—to weave

Send us a textThe paralyzing fear of sharing your artwork might be the very thing keeping you from walking in your divine calling. Whether you've felt that rush of pride when completing a piece only to immediately want to hide it away, or you've struggled with thoughts like "I'm not ready yet" or "It's not perfect," you're experiencing what countless artists battle. But what if this fear isn't actually wisdom at all?Fear often wears the disguise of prudence, whispering seemingly reasonable hesitations that keep your art hidden. "Maybe I need to grow more first" or "This isn't the right season" might sound wise, but these thoughts frequently mask deeper insecurities rooted in the lie that "if you really knew me, you'd reject me." The truth? This voice of accusation and fear isn't from God.Scripture offers powerful perspective through 2 Timothy 1:7: "For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of

Send us a textComparison is perhaps the most pervasive challenge facing artists today, silently eroding confidence and stealing joy from the creative process. This episode tackles this universal struggle head-on, offering both spiritual wisdom and practical strategies to break free from the comparison trap.Drawing from Galatians 6:4-5, we explore the biblical perspective on comparison and discover a powerful truth: God has custom-designed your artistic journey unlike anyone else's. When we fall into the habit of measuring ourselves against others, we're essentially telling God that His unique design for us isn't enough. This realization alone can be transformative for artists struggling to find their place in a crowded creative landscape.The comparison cycle is insidious—beginning with a casual scroll through social media and potentially spiraling into creative paralysis or self-doubt. I share my personal struggles with comparison throughout my artistic career and how recognizing these patterns

Send us a textEver wonder if your artistic struggles mean you've missed God's calling? When marketing feels overwhelming, business challenges mount, and self-doubt creeps in, it's easy to question everything. I've walked this path myself—the last two years brought some of my biggest professional challenges as shifting markets and changing landscapes left me wondering if my trajectory had changed.These tactical troubles—marketing confusion, business overwhelm, inconsistent studio time, pricing frustrations, and imposter syndrome—can feel like flashing warning signs telling us we're failing. But here's the transformative truth: your struggles don't indicate failure; they signal growth. You're learning, developing, and expanding—exactly as you should be.Scripture offers us powerful anchors during these storms. Romans 11:29 reminds us that "God's gifts and his call are irrevocable." He hasn't changed His mind about your creative calling just because thin

Send us a textThe creative process isn't just something artists do on the side—it's the fundamental mechanism through which the kingdom of God operates. In this profound exploration of prophetic creativity, Matt Tommey shares revelatory insights from his 30+ years as both a professional artist and worship leader.Matt unpacks a transformative understanding of creativity as "seeing and agreeing"—perceiving what God is doing through the Holy Spirit and aligning our hearts with that movement. This process becomes the channel through which heaven literally enters earth, whether through music, visual art, business, or any creative expression. When we grasp this principle, mountains move and lives transform.The connection between faith and creativity emerges with startling clarity as Matt suggests replacing "faith" in scripture with "creativity." Creativity becomes the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Our creative expressions—whether songs, paint

Send us a textFear can paralyze Christian artists, trapping them in a destructive pendulum swing between two extremes: the fear that God won't provide financially on one side, and the fear that success will breed pride and damage their relationship with God on the other. This powerful episode tackles this common struggle head-on, offering liberating truth for creatives caught in this cycle.Drawing from a thoughtful question submitted by a Foundations Course participant, Matt reveals how the enemy strategically uses this pendulum to keep believers stuck, perpetually swinging between scarcity mentality and success anxiety. The solution? Understanding the profound difference between fear-based religion and grace-filled relationship with the Father.When we recognize that fear drives while the Holy Spirit invites, everything changes. Matt unpacks God's original intention for His children to walk in abundance in every area—unlimited relationship with Him, hearing His voice, walking in authority, and livin

Send us a textWhat's holding you back as a Christian artist? For many believers, the greatest barrier isn't lack of skill or opportunity—it's an internal battle between what Matt Tommey calls "sin consciousness" and "sonship consciousness."Drawing from the transformative work happening in the Foundations course, Matt explores how our internal focus shapes everything in our lives. When we fixate on our failures, shortcomings, and perceived inadequacies, we create a world of limitation. But when we shift our focus to our identity as beloved children of God, everything changes—including our art.Through a series of penetrating questions, Matt helps us examine whether we're living from a place of fear or freedom, duty or delight, hesitation or confidence. Are you beating yourself up because of unwanted thoughts? Do you approach God primarily with apologies rather than gratitude? Do you feel unworthy of God's blessing in your creative life? These indicators reveal whethe

Send us a textWhat if your greatest artistic and business breakthroughs aren't hiding in the latest marketing strategy but in the secret place with God? This paradigm-shifting episode reveals a powerful truth I received during an exclusive marketing mastermind event that completely recalibrated my approach to creative success.The divine whisper was clear: "Be focused on pulling on my glory, not pulling on the levers of business systems." This counterintuitive wisdom unlocks the supernatural paradox that has transformed countless artists' journeys—lasting success flows from intimacy with God, not just strategic business actions. As creatives, we're often tempted by quick fixes and industry hacks that promise visibility and profit. But Scripture consistently points us toward a different path. Matthew 6:6 reveals how secret prayers yield public rewards. Psalm 91:1 shows that dwelling in God's presence provides divine covering. And Psalm 37:4 demonstrates how delighting in the Lord s

Send us a textDo you find yourself growing impatient with God's timing in your artistic journey? You're not alone. That frustration—wanting success now, progress immediately, recognition instantly—is something almost every artist battles.Through personal studio revelations and spiritual insights, this episode explores how God uses the textured, broken places in our lives to create the most beautiful aspects of our art and testimony. Just as a painter uses texture to hold color and create depth, God uses our challenging seasons to reveal His glory in ways that smooth paths never could.The enemy wants you to believe you're behind schedule, too old, or somehow disqualified from your artistic calling. But God's timing—whether in sudden breakthroughs or extended journeys—is perfectly aligned with His purposes for your life. When we release our timetables and focus instead on faithful daily actions, we position ourselves for sustainable growth rather than exhausting spurts of striving.Those wint

Send us a textCan pursuing your dreams as an artist coexist with the biblical principle of laying down your life for the sake of the Kingdom? Join me as we explore this profound question through the heartfelt inquiry of Janie, a student grappling with her artistic calling and faith. Uncover the powerful realization that your unique talents and creative passions are not only compatible with your spiritual journey but are essential expressions of God's kingdom. By embracing our identities as beloved children of God, we can transform our understanding of self-denial—not as an abandonment of our dreams but as an alignment with divine purpose. Discover how religiosity doesn't demand the suppression of individuality but celebrates the vibrant diversity of artistic expression in both the church and broader community. This episode is a call to all artists and creatives to recognize and embrace their God-given dreams and assignments beyond traditional settings. Let us empower you on your artistic journey, en

Send us a textThis episode explores the transformative process of renewing your mind and what that truly means for believers and artists. We dissect common misconceptions about renewal, emphasizing that it's an active partnership with the Holy Spirit rather than a passive occurrence.• Addressing misconceptions about renewing your mind • The importance of cooperation with God in the renewal process • Understanding renewal as a pathway to aligning with God's will If you’re looking to deepen this journey, check out the Foundations Course available now! Join us inside the Created to Thrive Foundations Course and Community for just $27/mo at http://www.matttommeymentoring.com/foundations

Send us a textFacing life's challenges with humility can transform not just our circumstances, but also the very fabric of our hearts. Join me as I recount how difficult seasons in my life uncovered deep-rooted fears and hangups, leading to profound growth and maturity. By embracing humility over pride or self-pity, and drawing on biblical wisdom from James 4, we align with God's grace and unlock a path toward personal healing. We’ll discuss the pitfalls of victimhood and explore how faith, trust, and a mindset of gratitude can guide us through trials. Through scriptures like Psalm 37 and Romans 8:28, discover the assurance of God's ever-present guidance and the strength to overcome obstacles.Artists, this one’s for you. Finding your footing in the creative world requires more than just talent; it requires community and connection. With encouragement as our foundation, we delve into the importance of building supportive networks and nurturing your creative spirit. As you embark on your artistic