Learning about creativity from David

We have talked a lot about the importance of play and creative output for children.

Today I would like to share an example from the life of David about using creativity in dealing with trauma. David experienced a lot of trauma in his life. In the Psalms, we see how David deals with trauma. One example is found in Psalm 69: 1-3.
Save me, O God! For the waters have come up to my neck.
I sink in deep mire, where there is no foothold; I have come into deep waters, and the flood sweeps over me.
I am weary with my crying out; my throat is parched. My eyes grow dim with waiting for my God.

The description of trauma continues till verse twenty-nine when a dramatic shift occurs.
But I am afflicted and in pain; let your salvation, O God, set me on high!
I will praise the name of God with a song, And will magnify him with thanksgiving. . .you who seek God, let your hearts revive  . . . For the LORD hears the needy Psalms 69:29, 30, 32b, 33a

The writing of the psalm created enough distance from the trauma to allow David to express his pain and then see God’s salvation. Then a song of thanksgiving was used to magnify (enlarge) the knowledge of God’s character and power to save and revive. Children and adults can experience a similar journey from “I sink in deep mire” to  “LORD hears the needy” when they use creative output to pour out their concerns to God.