The Purpose of Divine Favor — The Interior Castle

Teresa opens the conclusion of the seventh mansion by warning that sublime favours do not remove every weakness: the soul may still suffer brief disturbances when venomous creatures from the moat regain power, yet trials deepen humility and gratitude for grace received. She insists these souls are not free from all imperfection, though God gives special help against wilful venial sin and mortal sin is rare among them. Recalling Solomon, she urges holy fear: blessed is the man who feareth the Lord, for gifts without reverence can ruin a soul as riches ruined the king.

The favours themselves strengthen courage to suffer, as Peter was strengthened by Christ's look yet still needed the cross. Teresa asks why God grants spiritual marriage: not for private delight but so love may prove itself in deeds. True spirituality joins humility, virtue, and prayer; zeal for God's honour must accompany interior peace.

Both Martha and Mary must entertain our Lord together: contemplation without active charity is incomplete, and busyness without prayer is hollow. Christ's food is that we draw souls to Him in every possible way, by prayer, example, and counsel, not by our importance but by love. Teresa closes by begging sisters never to grow weary of good works, for our Lord does not measure the greatness of tasks but the love with which they are done.