Pastor Steve’s Blog June 2, 2019 How many of us know that life does not always come up roses? I think we all do simply because of life experience. It would be great if it did, but it doesn’t. The Bible also tells us that life doesn’t always come up roses where everything works out just the way we want it. Sometimes, life finds a creative way to discourage us. God, knowing that, has given us some Scriptures to encourage us. Here are a few. “We gladly suffer, because we know that suffering helps us to endure. And endurance builds character, which gives us hope that will never disappoint us. All of this happens because God has given us the Holy Spirit, who fills our hearts with his love.” Romans 5:3-5. “Love always protects, always trusts, always hopes, and always perseveres.” I Corinthians 13:7. Remember God loves you, even when you are discouraged. “Blessed is the man who endures trial, for when has stood the test he will receive the crown of life which God has promised to those who love him.” James 1:12. A thought to go with these Scriptures is taken from “God’s Little Lessons for Leaders: Honor Books, Tulsa, OK. “Prizefighter James J. Corbett made many memorable statements during his colorful career, but perhaps his most famous was when he was asked, ‘What is the most important thing for a man to do to become a champion?’ Corbett replied, ‘Fight one more round.’ Many successful people have had that perspective. Thomas Gray wrote seventy-five drafts of ‘Elegy Written in a Country Chruchyard’ before he was satisfied with his poetic masterpiece. S.N. Behrman, an American playwright, wrote plays for eleven years before he sold one. Somerset Maugham earned only $500 in his first 10 years as a writer. While working full-time in a factory, Enrico Caruso studied voice for 12 years before he became a successful performer. George Gershwin composed almost one hundred melodies before he sold his first one…for $5.00. During his first five years as a writer, Zane Grey couldn’t sell a single story. Don’t be discouraged if your dream doesn’t come true immediately. Continue to pursue your craft or talent. Study and learn. Grow by experience. Keep working. The victory goes to those who are willing to fight, ‘One more round!’”