It is clear from many considerations that the Lord saves mankind out of mercy alone, and that He does not demand any praise or thanks in return for His Divine benefits. It is clear from the state of souls, spirits and angels, who are not allowed to think, say, or do anything except by the permission and grace given by the Lord. Of their own power they can do nothing, and whatever is from them or pertains to their nature is evil, from which no praise, nor thanksgiving, can come. If a spirit has a mind to give thanks, he is entirely unable, except with clear permission and grace; thus praise and thanks are the Lord's. But these matters were clearer to me by the spiritual idea that the Lord does not demand anything at all from souls, spirits and angels in return for His Divine benefits. 1748, 27 May.