Love, Art, and Being Present: A Christian Artist’s Reflection on Social Media

I’ve taken a step back from social media lately.

As an artist, I’m realizing how deeply what I take in affects what I put out. My work flows from what fills my heart and mind. When I’m experiencing the beauty of God’s creation, creativity, kindness, and goodness—I find myself able to reflect that same beauty back into the world. But when everything I consume feels angry, divisive, chaotic, and full of hate, my inspiration feels stifled. My creativity goes quiet.

I want to be more sensitive to what I’m allowing to shape me.

Most importantly, as a Disciple of Jesus, I’ve been feeling convicted about a few things—mainly how I’m called to love and how I’m called to live. Scripture reminds me that loving my neighbor isn’t about being loud, angry, or reactive. Love isn’t a clanging cymbal. It’s patient, kind, and rooted in truth. We’re called to love God and love others, to speak the truth in love, and to walk in obedience to Him(1 Corinthians 13, Ephesians 4:15, 1 John 5:3).

God also calls me to live in a way that brings His Kingdom to earth each day—to pursue peace, not chaos(Matthew 6:10, 1 Corinthians 14:33).

So what does that look like when the world feels overwhelming—especially when so much of what we “see” is filtered through social media?

For me, it’s meant stepping back and looking around at my actual, present reality. I realize my reality may look very different from someone else’s, but this is where God has placed me, and this is where I can make a difference.

I can be present.

I can offer a smile. Replenish food at my neighborhood food pantry. Make a meal for a sick friend. Volunteer to help others. Spread joy through my art—and encourage others to do the same. Be involved in a weekly Moms in Prayer group that lifts the next generation up to the Lord. Give my time and resources in Jesus’ name. Take walks in nature. Play. Laugh. Love well the friends and family God has placed right in front of me.

And I can stay grounded in God’s Word—through corporate Bible study and daily personal study—so my heart is anchored in truth and not swept away by the next slogan, trend, or piece of propaganda—“tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine…” (Ephesians 4:14).

This is the work I feel called to right now. Quiet, faithful, present work.

Creating from peace. Living from love.