In September of 2018, I purchased a book entitled, “Courageous Creative,” by Jenny Randle. (I realize if you look on Amazon it says it wasn’t released until October. All I know is that I purchased the book in September. I may not have received it until October.) It is an interactive devotional, meaning that each day has a devotion and then a challenge to complete. I wish I could remember why I bought it – I want to have some awesome story – but I think I just really liked the title and the idea. I got three days in and loved every second of it. Then, life happened. The book got put away and sadly, much of my creativity got shelved as well.
In late December, I saw an ad for a group study of the book. It started in January and the author would be an active participant of the study group. I was so excited about getting back into the book and having time to truly work on the challenges. January came, the group started, and I was bubbling over with giddiness. Everyone in the group was kind, encouraging, and ready to stretch themselves to a new level. Jenny Randle was funny, supportive, and down to earth.
With just three days left in this marvelous book, I am looking back on all I have learned and experienced. The creativity challenges were just that – challenging. I had to learn to create “movie” of graphics and then do a voice over! I would love to tell you about each challenge, but spoiler alerts. What I will say is that any person who is creative, wants to be creative, believes they are not creative, or already works in a field where they use their creativity, will benefit from this book. There is nothing surface level about this book or its assignments. Each day requires the reader to think carefully on the study presented. Each challenge pushes one to do their absolute best because one can see and feel how important it is to use their gifts for the glory of God.
In the description of the book on Amazon is written,
“To every wounded creative or procrastinating dreamer…
Discover the freedom to create again. The world needs you to shine.”
By engaging all sides of the brain, encouraging and thought provoking lessons, and incorporating as much fun as possible, this book brings the reader to a place where they feel ready to create again. Even ready to shine. What a gift to be given just for being willing to engage. In my reviews, I stated,
“This 31 day interactive devotional was all it promised to be and more. My relationship with Christ has grown in ways I did not realize were missing until I started this book. My understanding of who I am in Him has increased my joy and my creativity. The creative challenges issued each day were never easy, but always fulfilling. Each assignment not only stretched my creativity, it pushed me out of my comfort zone in a way that was rewarding and taught me much about myself and my God. Everyone can not only learn from this book but grow as well. I cannot possibly recommend it any higher.”
One of the challenges that took me way out of my comfort zone and pushed me work hard:
I stand by each of those statements. God has used this book to not only increase my creativity and my joy in creating, He used it to reveal truths that have helped me to heal some pretty deep wounds. One night our assignment was to finish two statements. I let the first statement lead me to some pretty dark parts of my life. I almost felt defeated. I could feel the times that I have felt alone, unseen, and unheard. When I went to complete the next statement, God gently revealed to my heart that in fact, I was never alone. I was never unseen. I was never unheard. He was there every single minute of every single day. The truth of this ran through my heart, my spirit, and my soul.
I have not written about a book on my blog in some time, but this book was just that good. I am grateful to Jenny Randle for writing the book, organizing the group, and putting her time, energy, and prayers into supporting its members. I am grateful to my fellow creative ninjas for their incredible work, constant encouragement, and their prayers. I am grateful that God brought it into my path and ensured that I was a part of this life changing experience.
You can purchase the book at Amazon, Christian Books or Barnes and Noble. I have included links so that you can go now!
Amazon: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/courageous-creative-jenny-randle/1127747832?ean=9780736975049#/
Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/courageous-creative-jenny-randle/1127747832?ean=9780736975049#/
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