My college experience resulted in me tackling three majors (that’s a long story). I studied English, journalism and music. Many people whom I talk to about this assume that an English degree and a journalism degree would have a lot of overlap or similar classes. But actually they were quite different. One of the reasons why is that in the English major classes I was primarily consuming and the journalism classes involved more producing.

What I mean by that is a typical English class required reading a piece of classic literature, learning its relevance, significance and learning how to dissect it or analyze it. I was usually consuming something that someone else created, and trying to understand what it is and why it’s important. Homework included reading assignments and essays explaining my analysis. In contrast, a typical journalism class involved learning how to write a news article or interview someone, and the homework required me to then go write a piece of news or talk to a stranger. I was producing something new.

I thought a lot about this difference, and found over time that the consuming-type assignments were somewhat easier, but the assignments that required me to produce ended up being more rewarding. I try to remind myself of this, especially now, as there are near limitless things to consume, what with the Internet, Netflix and smartphones. It’s extremely easy to almost always be consuming. But God gave every human incredible power to create, and I don’t think He wants that to go to waste.

God gave humans the ability to invent, design and envision. Exodus 35:35 says, “He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple and scarlet yarn and fine linen, and weavers—all of them skilled workers and designers” (New International Version throughout). And this is just a sliver of the possibilities our minds are capable of. Producing can mean artistic projects, but it can also include much more, like making a video, teaching someone a skill, cooking, working on a relationship or even just giving encouragement (Romans 12:8).

Often, the most difficult part of producing is just getting started. At the marketing agency where I work, I often hear this phrase: “Don’t get it right, get it written.” It’s easy to get in your own way, overthinking things or worrying that what you’re producing isn’t perfect. But at some point you just have to jump in and try something. If what you create doesn’t turn out perfect (and I know from experience, it probably won’t), then it’ll be a great learning experience.

Of course, consuming has its place. Consuming God’s Word is how we hear from God, understand ourselves and develop discernment to make wise life decisions. But most things are better with balance, and being mindful of the balance between producing and consuming can make life more rewarding and productive. (At least it has for me.)

God gave us the ability to make new things because it’s one of His attributes, and we’re made in His image. Paul wrote, “You are God’s field, God’s building” (1 Corinthians 3:9). And elsewhere he adds, “For we are God’s handiwork” (Ephesians 2:10). God didn’t just make everything at the beginning of the world. He continues to work and create using us as materials. He’s reforming and refining each of us individually. And He’s working with us collectively as His Church and, eventually, to form His family.

So take a page out of God’s book (figuratively, of course) and start creating.

Your friend,

Kourtney Kovanis, Managing editor | kourtney.kovanis@gmail.com