Collaborative Work

One day I was outside taking slides of my paintings; they're used for entering art competitions, and just to remember them by, if and when pictures are sold. A neighbor's young child came over to see what I was doing, and since "everyone is a critic," he offered his opinion -- happily, it was favorable. This little fellow then asked with a bit of wonder in his voice, "Did you do them all by yourself?" I smiled at his amazement and nodded. Yet I hadn't really done them "all by myself." You see when two or more artists work on the same project, it's called a collaborative piece. And I'd been getting help for years and years. The Great Creator himself has offered his guidance, encouragement, and inspiration, as have the many teachers he's sent to me over the years. So, I sign each work not only with my name, but also with the Christian sign of a fish - to honor the fact that it is a "collaborative piece."

Ecclesiastes 4.9 - Two can accomplish more than twice as much as one, for the results will be much better.

Micah 7.7 - As for me, I look to the Lord for his help.

Psalm 121.02 - My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.

Galatians 2.9 - The same God gave us each our special gifts.

1 Corinthians 7.7 - Each has his own special gift from God, one of one kind and one of another.

Ephesians 4.7 - Christ has given each of us special abilities - whatever he wants us to have out of the rich storehouse of gifts.

Colossians 1.29 - This is my work, and I can do it only because Christ's mighty energy is at work within me.

2 Timothy 2.15 - Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who has no need to be ashamed.

Acts 20.24 - Life is worth nothing unless I use it doing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus.

Ecclesiastes 5.20 - To enjoy your work and accept your lot in life - that is indeed a gift from God. The person who does that need not look back with sorrow on his past, for God gives him joy.

Ephesians 3.20 - Now glory be to God who by his mighty power at work within us is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of - infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, or hopes.

Hebrews 4.9 - There is a full complete rest waiting for the people of God. Christ has already entered there. He is resting from his work just as God did after the creation.