The resultant of the combined action of the two forces, divine grace and the human will, is by no means uniform. The perturbing element is contributed by man. The divine element is always the same; it moves us towards good; it is sufficient to enable us to carry out good deeds. God does not mock us by giving an insufficient grace and holding us responsible for unavoidable failure. Every grace is potentially efficacious, either in itself or in the further grace that it leads to. The first small grace contains an advancing series of greater ones, as the acorn contains the oak: faithful and diligent culture will bring the seed to its maturity. A heavenly inspiration is never so weak but that a man of good-will may find in it all the assistance that he needs. The enlightenment and grace that brought the Magi to Bethlehem, that converted the Samaritans and the thief on the cross, that secured the adhesion of Nathaniel and the faith of the Apostles at Cana, were to all appearance far less forcible than the graces that were lavished on others and resisted by them. Treasure up and act upon the earliest and weakest suggestions of grace. "Let not a particle of the good gift escape thee" (Eccli. xiv. 14). Never think of the obstacles that nature opposes to the supernatural. Let it suffice for you that God's grace has called you to a certain course, and be sure that His call carries strength with it sufficient to carry you through all difficulties.
