Daily Devotional | God as Artist

Michelangelo was perhaps the greatest sculptor in history. When asked to describe his craft, he said, “Every block of stone has a statue inside it and it is the task of the sculptor to discover it.” Artists take materials in the world and reshape them to create something new. Today, we are viewing God as an artist. But, unlike Michelangelo or any ordinary artist, God is not dependent on using preexisting material. He can create from nothing!

In Psalm 19, David proclaims: “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands” (v. 1). David looks up at the night sky and is awestruck by God’s handiwork. When we take the time to really look at the universe God made, from the smallest blade of grass to the largest super nova, we cannot fail to see God’s grandeur and His artistic prowess. Even though nature cannot speak audibly, it communicates to us who God is (vv. 3–4).

God’s artistry is also seen in Scripture. God’s Word is “perfect” and “refreshing to the soul” (v. 7). His commands are “radiant” and “pure” (vv. 8–9). They are designed to help us grow in wisdom and bring “joy to the heart” (vv. 7–8). God’s Word is not only true but also beautiful. God inspired the writers of the Bible to pen gripping narratives and majestic poetry. As David reflects on God’s Word, he realizes it is “more precious than gold” and “sweeter than honey” (v. 10). The artistry in Scripture reflects God’s nature as endlessly creative.

David desires that his own words and thoughts would be true and beautiful like God’s. He prays, “May the words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight” (v. 14).

>> Take some time today to look around at the world that God created. Where do you see evidence of God’s artistry? As you read Scripture, notice the beauty and the truth contained within it.

Pray with Us

Lord God, make Your words more precious than gold and sweeter than honey to us. Teach us the reward of obeying them. We rejoice that in the blood of Your Son we are blameless forever.

BY Ryan Cook

Dr. Ryan Cook has taught at Moody Bible Institute since 2012. He earned his bachelor of arts in Bible and Theology from Moody and his master of arts in Old Testament from Grand Rapids Theological Seminary. He has worked in Christian education and served as a pastor in Michigan for seven years. During his time as a professor at Moody, he earned his doctorate from Asbury Theological Seminary. He now lives with his wife, Ashley, and their three children in the Chicagoland area.