Editorial April 3, 1902 Issue

"Lord, Save Me."

Editor

THUS cried Peter when he was overcome by fear and doubt. Until so overcome he could walk alone, even on the water. So says the record. (Matthew, 14 : 28—31.) So long as he kept down fear and doubt, relying on God as the divine Principle by virtue of whose power he could walk uprightly, he needed no personal help, not even the helping hand of Jesus who was near by. Herein is a wonderful lesson. It will be observed that Peter's fear and doubt began when "he saw the wind boisterous." The still wind and placid water caused him no alarm, no fear or doubt.

Peter typifies the experience of mortals in their growth from material into spiritual conditions. When the wind and waves are quiet all goes smoothly; but with the appearance of rough winds and waves, fear and doubt take possession, and the disciple who is yet in the belief of personal, human power rather than in the understanding of the divine All-power, cries out to personality for salvation, instead of trusting to his understanding of divine Principle — God. Principle obeyed, saves; personality obeyed, at its best, may temporarily relieve, but it cannot save. Jesus quieted Peter's fear by giving him a helping, fleshly hand; but Jesus did not, by that kindly and sympathetic act, teach Peter the Principle whereby he could save himself. Peter had to learn of this saving Principle for himself, taking Jesus as his guide and teacher thereof. Jesus' human help destroyed Peter's fear for that once, but it was temporary, not permanent help. Peter had yet to work out his own salvation. So must it be with all.

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April 3, 1902
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