Article July 11, 1908 Issue

"WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE."

ANNIE M. PAYNE

To estimate aright the meaning of the word possible as used in chapter 19 of the Gospel of Matthew, and on page I of our text-book, we must divest thought of the meaning attached to the word by human sense. With us it connotes choice and uncertainty. We say, for example, "It is quite possible for me to take this step;" but from this statement the listener derives no certainty that the step will be taken. There are many grounds for his uncertainty in the fluctuations of human action. A certain step may on further reflection appear undesirable; it may even, owing to unforeseen conditions, prove after all impossible. Or, although the step may be good and feasible in itself, it may yet find an obstacle in the speaker's own lethargy, self-indulgence, or some manifestation of willpower.

How different is it with the divine Mind! Here, as a little reflection shows, that which is possible must also be certain. In the first place, no things known to God can be undesirable, since no things which He cognizes can be outside the range of infinite good. No things with Him require consideration, as with the things of human sense. Each thing, idea, is already in its right place, and its relation to other things perfect. Further, all these beautiful, God-guarded things are possible in manifestation; otherwise the reflection of omnipotence would be lost. All-power is equal always to self-manifestation. Can the things then which, reflecting equally God's allness and His power, are hence forever possible, yet be liable to remain unexpressed, to suffer that uncertainty which attaches to human volition? Assuredly not! Hence the word "possible," best adapted to lead on the growing human thought, and therefore selected by the highest exponents of Truth, expresses to them, and will express to all who humbly follow the scientific trend of their thought, that divine and absolute certainty which knows neither choice nor failure.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Poem
"THY KINGDOM COME."
July 11, 1908
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit