“We all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image…”

2 Corinthians 3:18

In this verse from Corinthians, Paul is making a theological point that Christians are transformed into the image of Christ as they behold his glory. This process of sanctification is something that Christians struggle to grasp even today. However, this principle of beholding and becoming applies even more broadly than how it is being taught here.

The focus of our hearts will always be reflected outwardly, whether we want to admit it or not. The whole of scripture teaches this.

Speaking about idols, Psalm 115:8 warns, “Those who make them become like them; so do all who trust in them” (Psalm 115:8, ESV). In other words, what we set our focus on doesn’t just capture our attention — it gradually shapes who we become.

Proverbs 4:23 admonishes us, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

Beholding and Becoming Backed By Science

As with all Biblical principles, even science backs up these truths. New research on neuroplasticity has shown that the brain literally reshapes neural pathways as a result of repeated exposure and focus. Cal Newport’s book Deep Work speaks about this in-depth. Newport expounds on the scientific understanding of sustained, focused attention and how it strengthens neural circuits.

The implication of this for creatives is that whatever they’re repeatedly exposing themselves to may subconsciously be affecting artistic output.

Creative Examples to Follow 

Writers and film directors are some of the greatest examples of this principle. Authors like Lermontov and Tolstoy harnessed inspiration for their works from the wild and rugged landscapes of the Caucasus region. They didn’t just lounge around in the salons of Moscow writing all day. Their imaginations were shaped by what they filtered through the lenses of their eyes. They were immersed in something foreign to them. 

The filmmaker Christopher Nolan draws inspiration for his films from the deep wells of philosophy, physics, and literature to craft his mind-bending narratives. Similarly Denis Villeneuve (Arrival, Dune, Blade Runner 2049) shows his admiration for linguistics, philosophy and science fiction classics in his distinctive visual style on the big screen. Quentin Tarantino developed his signature style through years of obsessively watching classic cinema. His love for spaghetti westerns and kung fu films is evident in his storytelling and cinematography. Tarantino has famously said, “I didn’t go to film school – I went to films.”

Practicing the Art of Beholding

So how do designers, copywriters, videographers and photographers develop this discipline of beholding? Well, for starters, they can curate their creative diet. Do you want to make great films? You’ve got to study more than film. You’ll never make amazing films if you don’t have any ideas about what to make films about. Want to be an outstanding photographer? Then watch something else besides videos about frame rates or Lightroom editing. Great photographers understand what’s interesting about their environment and what subject matter deserves to have a lens pointed at it. 

Instead of focusing on trends in your creative space, look where others aren’t. Steep your mind in great books and beautiful landscapes. Talk to people who work outside of the creative field – construction workers, baristas, cashiers, mechanics and lawyers. Talk to people who are passionate about their craft, because that’s where you’ll find other masters of this practice of beholding. As you begin to see what others regard as precious, that’s where you’ll find your next logo, article or short film.  

Philippians 4:8 (ESV):

“Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”