The stereotypical view of artistry is of the chaotic genius giving birth to great works of art and music in fits of creative energy. One moment a blank canvas, the next a masterpiece; one instant an empty score, the next a symphony. However, an investigation into the facts does not support this view.

Beethoven, one of the world’s most famous composers, rose at daybreak and worked continuously until two or three o’clock, working on multiple ideas at once. He often worked on musical pieces that he began years before. For many of his ideas he sketched as many as 20 or 30 variants of a theme to arrive at just the right sound.

Well-known master painter Michelangelo produced more than 2,000 sketches and renderings of his work “Last Judgment” during the eight years it took him to complete his masterpiece.

In just these two examples we see that patience and consistent effort were combined to create incredible works of art.

The Christian life is similar in that patience and hard work are required to bring forth a beautiful walk of faith. “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure” (Phil. 2:12-14). You see, it takes a blending of the Word of God and patient striving on our part to become conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29; 12:2), and the end of that process is eternal life (Romans 2:7).

Anything of lasting value requires patient commitment and discipline to come into being. Christian, do not give up. Your life can be a masterpiece!

• Matt Clifton BulletinDigest.com