Born and raised, outside of Syracuse, I know the effects of snow. It truly is amazing, minute flakes, snowmen make. Children and the young-at-heart anticipate the first big snowfall. As soon as a measurable snow blankets the ground, they are outside bound. The top three activities enjoyed by young and old: making snowballs to pellet their friends, creating snow angels, and building snowmen.

Each snowman begins with a small snowball. When rolled in the snow, it gathers more snow, expanding in size at a rapid pace. The snowball effect is desirable when building stupendous snowmen. In contrast, the snowball effect, in relation to problems makes me run for cover! Troubles easily build from one to two, then triple and multiply unmercifully. I serve a merciful God, who turns a multitude of trials, into character building opportunities.

“Dear brothers, is your life full of difficulties and temptations? Then, be happy, for when the way is rough, your patience has a chance to grow. So let it grow, and don’t try to squirm out of your problems. For when your patience is finally in full bloom, then you will be ready for anything, strong in character, full and complete (James 1:2-4 Living Bible).”  We can experience the snowball effect, seeing patience grow into a wall of strength!