Growth in Grace Requires Being Planted in Grace

True spiritual growth can only occur when one is firmly rooted in grace. Smith argues that many Christians struggle with growth because they attempt to grow into grace rather than growing within it. She uses the analogy of a rosebush planted in a stony path, which cannot thrive until it is transplanted into fertile soil. She writes, 'In order to grow in grace, it is necessary first to be planted in grace.' This idea is vividly illustrated by comparing the Israelites' wanderings in the wilderness to a Christian's futile efforts to grow without being rooted in grace.