Getting Inspiration
Where do you take inspiration from?
Nature, Arts, Literature, Poetry, Acts of Courage, Good Words, the Example of Others, Scripture; there are many things that inspire us. Spring and summer tend to be seasons where we take inspiration. We see life popping up. We see hope in things that seemed dead coming back with freshness. After a long winter, we get inspiration for something new by watching the beauty of spring.
What is inspiration?
Inspiration is more than just enjoying something, or something that is generally encouraging. Inspiration is a spark. As we look at beauty, inspiration quickens us, influences us and prompts us to act.
Artists paint when inspired. Writers will write. We all can create something…a good attitude, a job done, a kind word spoken. Those are acts of inspiration. They bring life.
I love this definition of what it means to inspire.
Inspire: a divine influence directly and immediately exerted upon the mind or soul. To fill with an animating, quickening, or exalting influence.
We all need inspiration.
Without inspiration we feel stuck, we feel bored, have no ideas, or motivation for action. Inspiration affects our hope, our energy, our direction and purpose. Inspiration connects us to God and empowers us to live for Him.
How do we get inspiration?
1. From God
God himself brings inspiration. He inspires through His Word. Jesus spoke of the Holy Spirit quickening us and giving inspiration to us. Staring at the beauty of the Lord, we will have AWE for God, and we are inspired. In God’s presence and through His word, we get fuelled with a desire for the Lord that empowers our lives.
26 But when the Father sends the Spirit of Holiness, the One like me who sets you free, he will teach you all things in my name. And he will inspire you to remember every word that I’ve told you. John 14:26 (Passion Translation)
16 “Now may the Lord Jesus Christ and our Father God, who loved us and in his wonderful grace gave us eternal comfort and a beautiful hope that cannot fail, 17 encourage your hearts and inspire you with strength to always do and speak what is good and beautiful in his eyes.” 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (Passion Translation)
2. From Each Other
24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, Hebrews 10:24
7 Carefully consider all that I’ve taught you, and may our Lord inspire you with wisdom and revelation in everything you say and do. 2 Timothy 2:7
Stirring one another up and encouraging each other is another source of inspiration for us. The support of others gives strength. Testimony and examples of others help us stay focus of God.
My Inspiration.
As I gaze at God my heart delights in inspiration. I delight in His love. His inspiration gives the oil of grace to do the hard things. Inspiration to give thanks rises in me as I enjoy the sun, or the rain watering my garden. God’s inspiration changes my perspective and for that I am thankful.
How is God inspiring you today?
Lee-Anne deVries
Pastoral Care Ministry Leader