The Power of Play: Finding Joy, Color & God in the Moment
Somewhere along the way to adulthood, many of us pack away our playful spirit. We trade sidewalk chalk for spreadsheets, hopscotch for housework, and imagination for endless to-do lists.
But what if we didn’t have to?
What if play—true, unfiltered, joyful play—wasn’t just for kids? What if it’s a sacred invitation to return to ourselves, and to the One who delights in our delight?
Lately, I’ve been rediscovering play through my abstract work and color studies. These pieces don’t begin with a plan. They’re not trying to prove anything. They start with a brush in my hand, a swirl of color, and a quiet yes to the moment in front of me.
And you know what? Something beautiful happens every time.
Play Helps Us Stay Present
One of the gifts of playful creating is presence. When I begin a color study—like Serendipity, Daisy Daydream, or Rose-Colored Dream—I’m not thinking about what’s next. I’m not worried about the dishes, the inbox, or even the final product.
I’m simply there.
The swirl of a brush, the scratch of a pencil, the texture of paint—it anchors me. It’s worship in motion. And more often than not, God meets me right there in the mess and the color. In those sacred spaces, I remember that I’m not just a do-er. I’m a being. A child of God invited into joy.
There’s Science Behind It, Too
It’s not just wishful thinking—play actually heals us.
🧠 Neurologically, play activates areas of the brain related to problem-solving, emotional regulation, and creativity.
🫀 Emotionally, it lowers stress hormones and increases dopamine (the happy hormone!).
❤️🩹 Spiritually, play reminds us of wonder. Of beauty. Of the gift of this very breath.
As adults, we often think we have to earn rest or justify creativity. But scripture invites us to “become like little children”—open-hearted, trusting, and full of wonder. (Matthew 18:3)
How to Invite More Play Into Your Days
You don’t need a studio or fancy supplies to play. You just need a little willingness. Here are some joyful ways to reconnect with play:
🎨 Paint without a plan.
Put on music, grab a few colors, and see what happens. No rules. No judgment.
✍️ Try these art journaling prompts:
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“What does freedom feel like today?”
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“If I let my heart choose a color, what would it be?”
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“What am I holding that I can give to God right now?”
🌱 Reclaim something you loved as a child.
Was it coloring? Walking barefoot in the grass? Picking wildflowers? Doodling? Do it again—with no agenda.
✨ Set a 10-minute timer and…
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Finger paint.
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Blow Bubbles
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Arrange flowers in a mason jar. Tie with a colorful gingham ribbon.
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Make up a dance in your kitchen.
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Write a note to your younger self and decorate it like you’re in 4th grade again.
🕊 Add faith to the mix.
Before you begin, whisper:
“Lord, I give You this time. Meet me in the color, the quiet, and the joy.”
Let Holy Spirit play with you.
From the Studio: My Own Playful Pieces
Here are a few pieces that bloomed from intuitive color study and playful creating:
💗 "He Loves Me" – playful hearts radiating warmth, lightness and a sense of delight
🌼 "Flourish I and Flourish II" – spontaneous florals full of rhythm and joyful praise
🌀 "Peace on Every Side" – an invitation to embrace the unexpected with abiding faith
🌿 "Daisy Daydream" – intuitive play, capturing the refreshing spirit of summer
🌸 "Serendipity" – movement, discovery and a quiet unfolding
These pieces weren’t born from planning—they were born from letting go.
Let This Summer Be Your Invitation
As the season unfolds, may you find small, sacred ways to return to play. May you pick up a brush, a pen, or a handful of flowers, and remember that you were created not just to strive—but to delight.
Let this be your season of color, curiosity, and childlike wonder.
Because play isn’t frivolous—it’s formation.
It’s where we meet joy. And often, where we meet Jesus.
💌 I'd love to know...
What’s one way you plan to play this summer?
Drop a comment or reply to share—I’d be delighted to hear what brings you joy!
With wonder,
Lori