the growth till the fruit is ready for harvets: all is done through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God (verse 11). The Father (verse 6) is ceaselessly at work for the glory of the Son; the Son (verse 11) is ceaselessly at work for the glory of the Father. In this setting the daily task of obedience remains hard, but not fruitless. We are often neglectful, frequently failing, ever inadequate; yet the end is secure, for God is at work.