Enliven Your Daysনমুনা

Immeasurably More

In this hectic culture of ours, it’s important to find things that bring us peace. Perhaps that’s why Anne Neilson’s paintings and home décor are so popular. It’s nearly impossible to look at her artwork and not feel a calming sense of safety and peace. After all, her work flows directly from her time in Jesus’ presence — and as a result, her paintings have made a big impact on people’s lives.

You might know Anne for her popular angel paintings and bestselling books. But today, we’re going even deeper. We’re asking her about the daily spiritual habits that ground her and her work.

* * *

God's Word is living and active and sharper than any double-edged sword. I stand on His Word for everything in my life and will never waver in unbelief. Now, I wish I could tell you that I wake up at 5 a.m. (or when the sun rises) and sit nestled in a chair, reading my Bible and journaling for hours. I go in spurts with that. What I do every day before my feet hit the ground is have a conversation with the living Lord Jesus, asking him to direct my steps.

Most days, I try to read a psalm or just let the Holy Spirit lead me in Scripture. I also try to journal my prayers. I might miss a few days, but I know that he is right there and continues to carry me, even in those gap-filled days. My phone sends me Scripture reminders at the appropriate times to remind me of God’s faithfulness. For example, every day at 3:20 p.m. (not a.m. because I am not a morning person), Ephesians 3:20 pops up on my phone. No matter what I’m doing at 3:20 p.m., I know that God will do immeasurably more than I could ever ask or imagine. Other Scriptures pop up, too, whether for my children or my marriage. I always try to pause and pray His Word over our lives.

—Anne Neilson, nationally renowned artist, as told to Rapt Interviews