Few of us would respond to this untimely snow squall by concluding that the age-old order of the seasons had come to an abrupt end. Neither would we assume that the earth was slipping off its axis, or that beyond the cover of low hanging clouds the sun was stealing away to take a better position in another universe. On the contrary, a glance at statistics would quickly reassure us that unseasonable changes have occurred before, and that their return does not signal the breakup of our solar system. Likewise the patience of God in the unfolding of his plan in our redemption does not invalidate his promises to us. The Christian life begins with faith, but that faith must lead to spiritual growth.
Faith leads to growth and growth leads to practical results in life and service.