334. The operation of the Divine Providence is also said to continue to eternity because every angel is being perfected in wisdom to eternity, but each according to that degree of affection for good and truth in which he was when he departed from the world. It is this degree which is being perfected to eternity. What is beyond this degree is external to the angel and not within him; and what is external to the angel cannot be perfected within him. This is meant by the
Good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, which shall be given into the bosom of those who forgive and give to others. Luke vi. 37, 38;*
that is, who are in the good of charity.
* Original Edition as vii.
