Article June 13, 1903 Issue

The Ounce of Prevention

CLARANCE W. CHADWICK.

The twofold mission of Christian Science is not always apparent to beginners. They are very prone to magnify its curative features and even to go out of their way to tell their friends what Christian Science will do for them. It is a point that they are sometimes inclined to be over-zealous about, not realizing that the physical healing is but one step out of matter into the realm of reality. The next all-important step is to learn how to forestall disease, and then begins the practical application of a law which is found to be just as efficacious in preventing disease as in curing it.

The Master once said to his students, "If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them." We are all placed in just this position. We know a great deal of the letter of Christian Science, and when in need of physical help we are very devoted to our Science, declaring that we have lost all faith in medicine, and that we are very sure that Christian Science can help us. And Christian Science does help us, and in its infinite compassion it helps us again and again. But there comes a time when the desired help does not come so speedily, and we begin to wonder why.

The reason is pain to any one who has had this experience,—he has failed to make use of the ounce of prevention which would have been worth more than a pound of cure. In time of peace he has not prepared himself for war. Neglected opportunities now stare him in the face and he learns a severe lesson, but a most needed one. One makes little use of his talents if he sits idly by and only in time of dire distress applies Christian Science simply as a curative agent. It is the daily application of its teachings, especially in time of peace, that attests our love of God and our gratitude for what Christian Science has done for us. Christian Science is the panacea for all the ills that flesh is heir to, but it is not a medicine chest to be drawn upon at will. It is not a patent "cure all" system that can be bought or influenced by human will or wisdom. Christian Science reveals to us a Principle, obedience to which heals men physically, morally, and spiritually. Mere belief in this Principle does not heal or save us, but intelligent obedience to its demands accomplishes everything.

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