ACCOMPLISHED AND ANOINTED HARPIST/LYRIST

In 1 Samuel 16:14-23, we learn that King David was not only a skilled harp/lyre player. He played in a way that was both physically and spiritually therapeutic! “Whenever the spirit from God came on Saul, David would take up his lyre and play. Then relief would come to Saul—he would feel better and the evil spirit would leave him” (v. 23). David’s playing was two-fold. It gave the afflicted king physical and spiritual relief and had the power to cause the evil spirit to leave him.

In like fashion, Christian creatives must be alert to anointed music’s therapeutic power to relieve spiritual and physical suffering. It’s a divine art—a language of faith and an ignition button that revs up the spiritual engine and brings God into the scene. Consequently, God shows Himself in all His glory.

PROLIFIC POET AND VERSATILE LYRICIST, MUSICIAN AND PSALMIST

David was creative in his worship. He loved new songs (Psalms 33:3, 96:1; 98:1; 144:9; 149:1). More so, it had to be skilful singing and playing with understanding. Out of the 150 Psalms, it is said that 73 are David’s. Some are imprecatory prayers and laments; others are songs of praise to God and hymns of thanksgiving for answered prayers. In challenging circumstances, he not only wrote prayers, lyrics, poems and psalms that described his prevailing trials, but he also prescribed to his soul amazing faith-based comebacks and ultimately ascribed greatness to God alone.

David was not just an ordinary lyricist, poet and musician, he was a worshiper. His music gave voice to his belief, devotion and heartfelt prayers. His versatile shepherding skills found their way into his psalms and provided incredible metaphors for God’s tender care. Christian creatives can learn spiritual truths and passion for God from David’s multifaceted psalms and prayer life during varied phases of life.

THE MANIFOLD MUSICAL DIRECTOR

David was a multi-faceted music director of an exceptional orchestra. He played the role of the principal director and creative/arts leader. He had enormous influence over the orchestra’s creative direction and gained respect by being an example of creativity, competence and commitment. In 1 Chronicles 15, David prepared a place for the ark of God and pitched a tent for it. He called upon the priests and Levites to consecrate themselves in order to bring up the ark of the Lord to the place he prepared for it.

He also told the leaders of the Levites to appoint fellow Levites as musicians to make a joyful sound with musical instruments—lyres, harps and cymbals. Kenaniah was in charge of the singing because he was skilful at it. “So all Israel brought up the ark of the covenant of the Lord with shouts, with the sounding of rams’ horns and trumpets, and of cymbals, and the playing of lyres and harps,” (v. 28).

The number of people in the King David-led orchestra was staggering. “The Levites thirty years old or more were counted, and the total number of men was thirty-eight thousand. David said, “Of these, twenty-four thousand are to be in charge of the work of the temple of the Lord and six thousand are to be officials and judges. Four thousand are to be gatekeepers and four thousand are to praise the Lord with the musical instruments I have provided for that purpose” (1 Chronicles 23:3-5). Look at that! 4,000 skilful instrumentalists!

The musicians were jubilant and skilfully played their instruments and David danced before the Lord with all his might.

There is power in anointed music. God has used musicians time and again for His divine purpose—to bring people into His holy presence and to refresh them; to defeat the enemy and to destroy his works. Let all Christian creatives lead by example.

SUPERNATURALLY ENHANCED WARRIOR
Psalm 78:72 says, “And David shepherded them with the integrity of heart; with skilful hands, he led them.” Integrity and skill are a dynamic duo in creative ministry. A skilful hand means David had a high level of proficiency in performing various tasks assigned to him. Having integrity of heart means that he wasn’t perfect but his heart was not seared or hardened by sin.

David is described as a man who was after God’s heart. He did not treat God’s people anyhow but ruled with skillfulness and integrity of heart. While in the fields tending his father’s flock, David mastered the art of slingshot. The sling was all he had; all he knew how to use to keep the bears and lions away from his father’s sheep.

The sling was also an incredible and highly effective military weapon for him. 1 Samuel 17:50 says, “So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone, struck the Philistine down and killed him….”

Christian creatives must do their best to improve and perfect their competencies and knowledge in their God-given creative abilities. God is worthy of our very best; we must serve Him with purity of heart and with a sense of excellence in everything we do.

Creativity is a great word as it can be linked to both the creator and creation. It is the ability to make or otherwise bring into existence something new, whether a new solution to a problem, a new method or device, or a new artistic object or form. A good pass for this word is the great and powerful being from Genesis.

It was the year 4004 B.C. (as stated by James Ussher; author of The Annals of the World), before time and space existed. The earth was just a formless expanse, filled with emptiness and great darkness. Just then, with a magnificent burst of energy and power poised on this expanse, God spoke and by his words, creation began—time began and life emerged. All these He did orderly, from the light, day and night, to every sort of animal, Man and every creation.

The Lord God, as the ultimate creative, had fashioned the entire universe out of nothingness. His creativity breathed us into being and all of the world serves as its testament.

He created the entirety of heaven and its host, the earth and its fullness thereof, and of all creation, He created a ‘mini Him’—Man; made in His image and creative just like He is.

The Bible demonstrates to us that our creativity is a reflection of God as the ultimate creator. He equips and inspires us to live out of this image—to glimpse His Kingdom on this side of heaven. “For we are His workmanship [His own master work, a work of art], created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared [for us] beforehand so that we would walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).

Here are some lessons gathered, to help creatives:

Know your identity.

The very first important thing to note as a creative is your identity. The value of identity is that, so often, with it comes purpose. You should understand that you are His spitting image, in His image and likeness were you created, and there is a purpose that comes with it—to look like him and act like him. If he created the universe out of nothing, it means you have the ability to make something out of nothing; that there’s a pool of possibilities as to whatever you put your mind to. Also, the quality of your thoughts determines the quality of your life.

Therefore, it is important to accept that we are supernatural beings, created to do even the things that seem difficult. Remember, as a man thinks in his heart, so is he!

Use your words.

Words are a powerful tool in creation. God created everything, and nothing was created except through His Word. This Word gave life to everything that was created. The words you speak to yourself, over your life, family, kids and situations are as important as what you do. They are powerful and very potent. The tongue has the power of life and death and those who love it will eat its fruits. Use your words wisely!

Make achievable goals.

We see how God completed creation in seven days with specific creations per day. The scriptures never recorded Him being overwhelmed by creation and it is wise to learn from His spread of creation across days and not try to make it all happen at once. A good way to do this is by writing out the vision and spreading it out in achievable and realistic goals. Write the vision, and make it plain on tablets, so that it can be easily achieved.

Examine and applaud yourself.

More often than not, a good way to be a great creative is by learning to acknowledge your progress.

It is good to give yourself some credit—a pat on the back or better. The scriptures mention severally that God saw that His creation was good. He wasn’t in doubt nor in limbo of his work, rather He saw the goodness of it all. If God, in whose image and likeness we were created, had no doubt about His abilities, why then should you?

You also have the ability to see His goodness in all and not just some, for every good gift and every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

Rest.

Since the fall of man, there’s been a proclivity in man to want to work hard, always operating as a cogwheel in a machine, running about completing projects, while missing the beautiful completeness of what has been done.

After a long week of creation, the All-Powerful God rested on the seventh day. We, who are created in His likeness, should plan to rest as planned. A wise man once said, “Take rest, for a field that has rested gives a beautiful crop.” Rest, for health, is wealth.

In conclusion, I believe God started creation through His Word (Christ Jesus) and created Man (Creatives) to continue the good work He started, so as to show forth His goodness. He wants you to shine His light in your sphere of influence and has enabled you with the wisdom needed and also a teacher of all things—the Holy Spirit. He doesn’t call anyone what He hasn’t made them, and He can always be trusted. I promise. The Dream you have in your heart is very valid and can become a reality—it matters and the world needs it.

Shine the light! You’re His spitting image.

Today, I want to share something truly special with you. If you haven’t experienced the five Christian movies I’m about to unveil, then you’re missing out on a cinematic journey that’s not just about entertainment, but about faith, hope, and the human spirit. These films aren’t just stories; they’re profound experiences that will resonate with your soul. So, whether you’re a devout believer seeking to strengthen your faith or simply a lover of great storytelling, consider this your personal invitation to embark on a journey through some of the most outstanding Christian movies to ever hit the screen. Trust me, if you haven’t seen these, then you don’t know what it truly means to watch a movie that leaves a mark on your heart. Let’s dive in!

Son of God

“Son of God” is a compelling Christian movie released in 2013. Directed by Christopher Spencer, it serves as a cinematic retelling of the life of Jesus Christ, focusing on his ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection. The film follows the life and teachings of Jesus, from His humble birth in Bethlehem to his ministry, where He performs miracles and spreads His message of love, forgiveness, and salvation. The film delves into the challenges and opposition Jesus faced, leading to His ultimate crucifixion and resurrection, which are pivotal events in the Christian faith.

The film is praised for its commitment to an authentic portrayal of the life of Jesus. It also boasts high production values, stunning cinematography, and a captivating musical score. This attention to detail elevates the viewing experience and makes it accessible to a wider audience. While the film is rooted in the Christian faith, its universal themes of love, compassion, and hope make it accessible and meaningful to viewers of various backgrounds and beliefs. It invites people of all faiths to engage with the story of Jesus.

The film also creatively uses a combination of powerful storytelling, strong performances, and visually stunning scenes to immerse viewers in the life of Jesus. It presents the familiar narrative in a fresh and emotionally resonant way, making it a must-watch not only for devout Christians but also for anyone who appreciates powerful storytelling and exceptional cinematography.

God’s Not Dead

“God’s Not Dead” is another thought-provoking cinematic gem from the year 2013. It challenges the very essence of belief and unbelief. Under the skilled direction of Harold Cronk, this film takes us on a riveting journey through the hallowed halls of academia, where faith and reason collide in a battle of epic proportions. The film revolves around the story of Josh Wheaton, a Christian college student who finds himself in a philosophy class taught by Professor Radisson. The professor demands that students sign a declaration that “God is dead” to pass the course. Refusing to compromise his faith, Josh embarks on a journey to defend the existence of God, engaging in a thought-provoking debate with his atheist professor. Meanwhile, the film also explores the lives of other characters who are grappling with their own faith-related challenges.

The film tackles important themes of faith, intellectual freedom, and the existence of God in a contemporary college setting. It sparks conversations about belief and atheism, making it a thought-provoking watch. It presents a diverse range of characters, each dealing with their own struggles related to faith. This diversity allows viewers to connect with various perspectives and experiences. The central debate between Josh and Professor Radisson is a highlight of the film.

It showcases the clash of worldviews and invites viewers to consider the philosophical arguments for and against God’s existence. The film also creatively weaves together multiple storylines and perspectives, making it an engaging narrative that keeps viewers invested in the characters’ journeys. It effectively uses the debate format to convey philosophical ideas in an accessible way.

I Am In Love With a Church Girl

“I’m in Love with a Church Girl,” is yet another 2013 Christian drama film directed by Steve Race, which presents a heartfelt story of love, faith, and redemption. The film follows the story of Miles, a reformed drug trafficker, who falls for Vanessa, a strong believer in the Christian faith. As their relationship develops, Miles is forced to confront his past and make difficult choices, testing his commitment to his newfound faith and love.

The film’s emphasis on the power of redemption and the transformative nature of faith offers viewers a hopeful and inspiring story of second chances and spiritual growth. The characters’ internal struggles and conflicting values create a compelling and relatable narrative that resonates with audiences, regardless of their background or beliefs. The film also realistically portrays the challenges faced by individuals seeking to reconcile their past actions with their desire for a righteous life.

The movie’s emphasis on emotional depth and sincerity, combined with its engaging storyline, allows viewers to connect with the characters on a personal level, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexities of faith and love. Moreover, the film’s use of atmospheric visuals and a compelling musical score enhances the viewing experience, creating a captivating and immersive world that draws audiences into the characters’ journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening.

The Christmas Candle

“The Christmas Candle” is yet another 2013 British-American Christmas drama film, directed by John Stephenson that offers a heartwarming tale of faith, miracles, and the magic of Christmas. The film revolves around the legend of a special candle that is believed to grant miracles to those who light it with pure intentions. Set in the 19th century in the fictional English village of Gladbury, the film follows the experiences of a young minister as he grapples with the town’s tradition and the impact of the candle on the villagers’ faith and lives.

The film captures the enchanting spirit of Christmas and conveys the message of hope, love, and the power of miracles during the holiday season, making it a must-watch for those seeking heartwarming and uplifting narratives.

It emphasizes the significance of community and the shared belief in the extraordinary, fostering a sense of togetherness and camaraderie that transcends time and place. The movie’s exploration of timeless themes such as faith, tradition, and the enduring spirit of Christmas makes it a captivating and meaningful viewing experience for audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The film’s picturesque depiction of a quaint English village in the 19th century, combined with its attention to historical detail and charming Christmas aesthetics, creates a visually stunning and immersive world that captures the essence of the holiday season. Moreover, it skillfully weaves a heartfelt narrative with poignant moments, evoking a range of emotions that resonate with viewers and leave a lasting impression, making it a captivating and emotionally rewarding cinematic experience.

Grace Unplugged

“Grace Unplugged” closes our Top 5 list of oldies. Released in 2013, this Christian musical drama directed by Brad J. Silverman presents a moving tale of faith, family, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. The film follows the story of Grace Trey, a talented young singer and songwriter, as she confronts the complexities of the music industry and the tension between her passion for music and her family’s faith.

The film delves into Grace’s journey of self-discovery, as she grapples with the allure of fame and the importance of staying true to her values and beliefs.

The film’s exploration of the dynamics within a family, especially the complexities of the parent-child relationship and the generational differences in values and aspirations, offers a relatable and compelling narrative for audiences of all backgrounds. It intricately weaves an engaging storyline with captivating musical performances, providing a riveting and authentic portrayal of the challenges and triumphs that come with pursuing a career in the music industry.

The movie’s emphasis on the importance of faith, personal conviction, and the strength derived from one’s beliefs makes it a thought-provoking and uplifting viewing experience for those seeking stories of self-discovery and spiritual growth. The film’s incorporation of an engaging musical narrative, along with its heartfelt storytelling and compelling performances, creates an immersive and emotionally resonant experience that allows viewers to connect with Grace’s journey on a deeply personal level. Moreover, it skillfully navigates themes of ambition, faith, and the challenges of balancing personal aspirations with familial responsibilities, delivering an emotionally authentic and relatable narrative that resonates with audiences and leaves a lasting impact.

There you have it! The Top 5 Christian oldies that you can happily immerse yourself in before the year ends. If you have watched them before, feel free to binge-watch all over again!.

Mary’s Stewardship of Surrender

Mary’s encounter with the angel Gabriel was a testament to her remarkable faith and readiness to steward the divine miracle entrusted to her. In her response, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38, ESV), Mary exhibited a profound stewardship of surrender. Her willingness to submit to God’s plan, despite the societal implications and personal challenges, showcased a rare depth of faith and trust in the Almighty.

Mary’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem, culminating in the humble birth of Jesus in a stable, reflected her stewardship of surrender. It was an acknowledgment that she was not just bearing a child but participating in the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan for humanity.

Mary’s unwavering faith and surrender became the cornerstone of Jesus’s value system, emphasizing the importance of humility, obedience, and trust in God’s providence.

Joseph’s Stewardship of Protection

Parallel to Mary’s journey, Joseph, a just and compassionate man, found himself tasked with stewarding the miracle of the Incarnation. Faced with the perplexing revelation of Mary’s pregnancy, Joseph’s initial intention was to quietly divorce her. However, an angelic visitation in a dream changed the course of Joseph’s actions. He embraced his role as the earthly father of Jesus, marrying Mary and providing a protective environment for the Son of God.

Joseph’s stewardship of protection extended beyond the stable in Bethlehem. Fleeing to Egypt to escape King Herod’s massacre of infants, Joseph ensured the safety of the Holy Family. His commitment to safeguarding Jesus mirrored the protective nature of God’s love for His children. Joseph’s role as a guardian became an indelible part of Jesus’s value system, influencing his teachings on love, compassion, and the protective nature of God.

The Trickle-Down Effect

The profound impact of Mary and Joseph’s stewardship extends far beyond the nativity scene in Bethlehem, creating a lasting legacy that has shaped the very fabric of Christianity. Their unwavering obedience, humility, and trust in God laid the foundation for Jesus’s own values and principles, which continue to resonate in the hearts of believers today.

Humility and Obedience

Mary’s humble acceptance of her role and Joseph’s obedient response to the angelic message forged a legacy of humility and obedience in the life of Jesus. This foundational aspect of His character was evident throughout His ministry. In washing the feet of His disciples, associating with the marginalized, and ultimately submitting to the will of His Father in the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus exemplified the values of humility and obedience that were instilled by His earthly parents.

Love and Compassion

The love and compassion that permeated Jesus’s earthly ministry can be traced back to the nurturing environment provided by Mary and Joseph. The stable in Bethlehem and the home in Nazareth were not just physical spaces but sanctuaries of love where familial bonds were cultivated. Jesus, having experienced this profound love, mirrored it in His teachings and actions.

His parables, healings, and interactions with people reflected the compassionate heart instilled by Mary and Joseph.

Trust in God’s Plan

Mary and Joseph’s unwavering trust in God’s plan, despite the societal challenges and personal struggles they faced, became an intrinsic part of Jesus’s character. This trust manifested in His resolute commitment to fulfilling His mission on Earth. The teachings of Jesus often emphasized the trust that believers should place in the heavenly Father. The Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus spoke about God’s provision and care, echoes the trust ingrained in Him from His upbringing.

Sacrificial Living

Joseph’s protective stewardship and Mary’s sacrificial acceptance of her role set the stage for Jesus’s sacrificial living. His ultimate act of love on the cross, where He willingly gave His life for the redemption of humanity, echoed the values of sacrifice instilled by His earthly parents. The concept of sacrificial living became a central theme in Jesus’s teachings, urging His followers to love sacrificially and lay down their lives for others.

Empathy and Inclusivity

The empathy and inclusivity that characterized Jesus’s interactions with diverse individuals found its roots in the inclusive atmosphere created by Mary and Joseph. Their acceptance of Jesus as the divine gift extended beyond their immediate family to embrace all of humanity. This value resonates in Jesus’s ministry, where He welcomed and embraced people from all walks of life, breaking down societal barriers and exemplifying the universal love of God.

Forgiveness and Redemption

The forgiveness and redemption preached by Jesus find their origins in the forgiving and redemptive nature of Mary and Joseph’s stewardship. Mary’s acceptance of God’s plan and Joseph’s decision to protect and raise Jesus despite the societal norms foreshadow the themes of forgiveness and redemption that Jesus later expounded. The parables of the Prodigal Son and the Woman Caught in Adultery illustrate the transformative power of forgiveness and redemption embedded in the values passed down to Jesus.

The trust that guided Mary and Joseph through arduous journeys and unforeseen challenges beckons us to place our uncertainties in the hands of the unwavering and faithful God.

As we grapple with the demands of our time, the call to trust in divine providence reverberates, assuring us that the same God who orchestrated Bethlehem’s starlit night orchestrates the intricacies of our lives.

As the narrative of Mary and Joseph unfolds, it invites us to a sacred stewardship—a responsibility not just to gaze upon the past but to walk in the present with a resolute commitment to values. In the echoes of Bethlehem’s night, may we hear the call to steward the miracles in our lives with a surrender that transforms, a protection that guards, and a commitment to values that mirror the transformative love of Christ. Their legacy, woven into the very essence of Christmas, becomes an eternal invitation—a beckoning to shape our stories in alignment with the divine narrative, ensuring that the transformative love they embodied continues to radiate through the lives of believers, transcending time and echoing through eternity.