Freedom Quote by Hans Urs von Balthasar
““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.””
About This Quote
Source Theology: Theo-Logic, 1975, theological treatise on grace and free will
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.
