Article August 28, 1909 Issue

REGARDING TESTIMONIES

AUGUSTA REINSTEIN.

We often hear it said by Christian Scientists that while they are deeply grateful for benefits and blessings received, fear keeps them from so testifying at the Wednesday evening meetings. A little analysis will show that there is no reason for this condition of thought, and perhaps my own experience and method of procedure may be of some little assistance and encouragement. The great Teacher constantly sounded the key-note of harmony, saying, "Be not afraid;"while Paul writes, "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind;" and in Isaiah we are admonished: "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." We should fear only to do wrong.

We would consider ourselves lacking at least in good manners did we fail to acknowledge, by either spoken or written word, any gift or kindness. Then should we not be more rather than less gracious to the Giver of all gifts—to Him who gives our daily bread and what we need for all days? The knowledge that we are doing right should sustain us. It can never be difficult to do right. It can only be difficult, both before and after, to do wrong.

To prove to those who are fearful that the first attempt may not be easy, I will say that before my first experience I was able to eat but little dinner, and that when I reached the church I was greatly perturbed; but once upon the floor, a great calm descended upon me. I was conscious only of a desire to voice the truth, and in doing this we can always be sure of the guidance of God and the helpful thought of every earnest Scientist present.

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