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Living in Indianapolis, it is amazing that Scott McElroy and I have not interacted at some point.  We know a lot of the same people, have both done radio, reviews, and writing.  His resume gives him a lot of credibility in regards to working with God in creative aspects: he is a published author, was a radio personality for 20 years, does painting for church services, and is a nationally recognized voiceover artist.

McElroy lets us in on a secret: the book itself took ten years to write and publish.  Throughout this period, he describes a series of highs (three year gig for Animal Planet) and lows (divorce).  His realization is that our efforts apart from God will see limited
success, and that by partnering with Him, we are able to realize that we can do more than we ever thought possible from a creative standpoint.  Since God is Creator, and we were made in His image, part of our mission on Earth must then also be to create.

“Collaboration with the Holy Spirit gives our work a depth and authenticity that resonates in the hearts and minds of those who experience it.”  This central theme is McElroy’s starting point.  He then lays out a plan by which this can occur.  Developing and maintaining a relationship with God is crucial.  He gives us both historical foundations for his theory, and talks with current singers and artists to gauge their experiences in these areas.  He discusses the pitfalls and hindrances to the creative and collaborative process, but also offers insight on how to overcome them.

Finding Divine Inspiration is a great place to start for those who are wondering where God can use their artistic skills, for those who have become frustrated with their work, or those who need a reminder of God’s use of the arts throughout history.  My only real criticism is that the book could have used a better editor.  There are several grammatical errors, and a few redundancies that could have easily been corrected.  This will not bother anyone other than nitpickers like me, however.

Brian A. Smith
30 December 2009