In his book, “Heart of the Artist,” Noland addresses topics that concern character building for ministry. It is very a practical guide to every-day living as a Christ follower. These can be things every Christian has heard before, but there is depth and importance to what the Lord speaks within Noland’s writing. A few of the main points he touches that I will reflect on are, servant-hood v. stardom, the artist in community, and the artist and sin.
Servant-hood v. Stardom A lot of times within the Christian faith there is this fine line that borders pride and humility. Even things intended for good can easily be turned into a prideful motive. So, where is the line? In ministry that are so many opportunities to serve, but what does it mean …show more content…
His argument for the claim comes from a perspective that an artist can easily tap into their emotions. It is like “putting gasoline on a fire,” when our sinful nature is combined with our emotions (270-271). Another point he makes, supporting his claim, is that we are likely to have vivid imaginations. Sin is not just an outward action, but it starts in the thoughts. So, someone who favors imagination is more likely to fantasize. Another point is the selfishness that is often attached to the spot-light. In this kind of position a person’s life is elevated. When this happens, there is a tendency to hide the mess-ups. We can be so full of pride that we refuse to get help from others for the sake of not hurting our …show more content…
I understand Noland’s points. In fact, I believe they are true. On the other hand, there is so much more to it. I believe that everyone is inherently an artist. To be an artist is to do something with the gift and skills you have been given, and everyone has a gift, no matter what it is. In every person there is leeway for temptation. Some may be more susceptible to sin in a particular area. For example, a person travelling on tour all the time could be more likely to fall into alcohol, drugs, and sexual immorality. Then again, someone who is in a leadership position could be more prone to pride, envy, or manipulation. We are all fallen beings and there are certain weaknesses to the seasons of life we are in. However, that doesn’t make one person more sinful than the next, it just makes them fallen. But His grace is greater, and His discipline is
Servant-hood v. Stardom A lot of times within the Christian faith there is this fine line that borders pride and humility. Even things intended for good can easily be turned into a prideful motive. So, where is the line? In ministry that are so many opportunities to serve, but what does it mean …show more content…
His argument for the claim comes from a perspective that an artist can easily tap into their emotions. It is like “putting gasoline on a fire,” when our sinful nature is combined with our emotions (270-271). Another point he makes, supporting his claim, is that we are likely to have vivid imaginations. Sin is not just an outward action, but it starts in the thoughts. So, someone who favors imagination is more likely to fantasize. Another point is the selfishness that is often attached to the spot-light. In this kind of position a person’s life is elevated. When this happens, there is a tendency to hide the mess-ups. We can be so full of pride that we refuse to get help from others for the sake of not hurting our …show more content…
I understand Noland’s points. In fact, I believe they are true. On the other hand, there is so much more to it. I believe that everyone is inherently an artist. To be an artist is to do something with the gift and skills you have been given, and everyone has a gift, no matter what it is. In every person there is leeway for temptation. Some may be more susceptible to sin in a particular area. For example, a person travelling on tour all the time could be more likely to fall into alcohol, drugs, and sexual immorality. Then again, someone who is in a leadership position could be more prone to pride, envy, or manipulation. We are all fallen beings and there are certain weaknesses to the seasons of life we are in. However, that doesn’t make one person more sinful than the next, it just makes them fallen. But His grace is greater, and His discipline is