We creative types feel very strongly about the art that we create. We face subjective criticism all of the time, but yet we press on because we mostly feel that what we create is right according to us.

But what if, in a quiet moment alone with God, we knew without a doubt that the Holy Spirit told us that He wanted us to refrain from a certain subject matter or artistic expression because it did not glorify Him? What would you do?

I'm not talking about God saying "Don't paint landscapes anymore", or "don't draw anime characters". I mean, what if God spoke to you in a way that you KNEW He was really speaking to you, and that He said something artistic that you do is in opposition to His wishes.

What would you do?

Many years ago, I used to always draw female comic book characters in revealing clothing and in a sensual manner. This, of course, is how we always see female characters in every comic and graphic novel all over the world, so I drew what was most popular. As I grew closer to Christ, I heard His voice clearer and clearer. I began to hear God reveal to me that He'd rather I not draw women in this manner.

Hearing His voice is one thing, but ACTING on what you hear from God is another.

What if God told you that doing design work for the local nightclub was not pleasing to Him?

What if you KNEW without a doubt that God asked you to refrain from doing illustrations for a secular band that plays explicit lyrics? What would you do?

Hearing God is one thing. Knowing that His will directly conflicts with yours is called a challenge to your belief. This is the point where you prove or disprove that Jesus is Lord over ALL your life, even your passion for your art.

Jesus as Savior of the artist: An artist accepting salvation is the easy part.

Jesus as LORD of the artist: An artist allowing Christ to be Lord of all, including that artist's passion for his art, is more.