Divine Power and Human Limitation

But all things are similar: human things are one kind, while the examples of divine energy—terrible and strong and destructive to men—are another (Ps 143:4-5).

In this present life, according to the succession of one man, these things can be so, because those succeeding enter into the place of those departing; therefore we are all called by the name of Adam as if we were that same person, and God says, 'I made earth and man upon it,' counting all as one (Ps 144:1). But according to the life to come, these things are true for each one, with God being perpetually and eternally praised; and since it is not sufficient to praise for a little while, He adds 'unto the age and unto the age of ages.'

Since all that God has made remains for ever according to the Preacher (Eccl 3:14), every generation seeing His works praises them, seeing them to be surpassing all praise (Ps 144:4). And they declare Your power, by which You brought them into existence. This is the wisdom by which You have made all things; and Your power and wisdom is Your only-begotten offspring; for Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God.

They know that He has dominion over all, even if He does not yet manifest this to men who possess it receptively (Ps 144:9, 12). For men are small regarding the manifestation of the majesty of the divine kingdom within them; therefore, what is becoming for God is brought forth (Ps 144:12).

Saying 'the hands of God' (Ps 144:16), He means the opening of the provision of the food of created things; it is clear He is not presenting physical hands, but the creative power thus imitating. For if not through all things, He says, the Philanthropy is perceived (Ps 144:17), but many things that are pleasant and salvific, as well as many that are laborious and corruptible, come to those—such as the distinction of fruits, the destructive generations of beasts, and diseases.