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Almightiness consists much less in that which human beings…

“Almightiness consists much less in that which human beings imagine it to be, namely, changing things in accordance with one’s own will—Jesus proved, through his miracles, that he could do that, too—than in exerting an influence on the freedom of human hearts without overpowering them. Enticing…” quote by Hans Urs von Balthasar
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““Almightiness consists much less in that which human beings imagine it to be, namely, changing things in accordance with one’s own will—Jesus proved, through his miracles, that he could do that, too—than in exerting an influence on the freedom of human hearts without overpowering them. Enticing forth from them, through the mysterious power of grace, their free assent to the truly good.””

Hans Urs von Balthasar

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Grace influences hearts subtly, guiding free assent to good without coercion, unlike overt willful change.

In simple terms: Grace works quietly in hearts.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate humility and openness to grace.

Themes

theology grace free will ethics

Mood

reflective contemplative

Type

theological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal decision making
  • spiritual counseling
  • ethical leadership

Key Concepts

divine influence human freedom spiritual assent

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can one recognize gentle divine influence?
  • What role does free will play in moral choices?
A Different Perspective

Human resistance can limit grace’s effect.

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