Creating with God

When I was dealing with a pretty big emotional trial, the local missionaries stopped by our home.

One of the sisters asked me, “What really brings you joy?” ⁣

It took me off-guard more than I expected. ⁣

I couldn’t quite narrow it down to just one answer.

Plus, I wasn’t feeling much joy at the moment.

Paul taught:

“Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.” (2 Corinthians 7:4)

But I wasn’t finding a lot of joy in my tribulation.

I stumbled out an answer to our missionaries and then one of them shared something that totally changed my perspective.

She basically said:

“I find joy in being creative!

“Yes, I love to paint and draw.

“But I also love creating happiness!

“God is so creative, and I find joy when I create with Him!”

We ended up having a beautiful conversation about the connection between joy and creation.

Something totally clicked in my mind.

I have joy when I create a life for myself where I can feel the Spirit and become more Christlike. ⁣

I have joy in my life when I create a marriage and home where we keep the commandments, show love, and have fun!

I have joy when I create breathtaking music that transcends any emotions words can capture. ⁣

I have joy when I create beautiful, strong friendships. ⁣

And ultimately, I have joy when I am going through difficult trials, and yet I still create moments of happiness and peace with my Savior. ⁣

“We can feel joy regardless of what is happening- or not happening- in our lives. Joy comes from and because of Him.” -Russell M. Nelson

When we create, I believe we find joy because we partner with Heavenly Father to bring goodness into existence.

So, what brings you joy?

What are you able to create?

Happy Studying!

-Cali Black