Article January 9, 1915 Issue

Right Thinking

SAMUEL JOHNSTONE MACDONALD

The more thoroughly the student of Christian Science studies the writings of our revered Leader, the more profoundly impressed he is sure to become by her wonderful spiritual insight and marvelously incisive analysis of the word of Truth. On page 235 of "Miscellaneous Writings" is a marked instance of this. Speaking of Christian Science, she says, "It touches mind to more spiritual issues, systematizes action, gives a keener sense of Truth and a stronger desire for it."

Every earnest student experiences the truth of this clear statement, and becomes necessarily ambitious to make greater progress. To systematize thought and action is surely the proper method of attaining progress, and therefore the student's early attention should be directed to the best means of accomplishing this. One method we find ready at hand in the apostle Paul's letter to the Philippians. This may be called, indeed, a prescription for right thinking, and as such it should be taken in regular and systematic doses.

Let us first examine the prescription itself carefully. It cannot be read and pondered too often: "Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." Here is a comprehensive, all-embracing prescription for right and fruitful thinking; how, then, can it best be taken to secure the highest results? Little good will result from it if it is followed only occasionally and in a haphazard, half-hearted manner. This is surely an instance where Christian Science should, and must, systematize thought by stimulating one to patient, conscientious endeavor. Earnest and sincere study will surely give "a keener sense of Truth and a stronger desire for it."

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Article

Reliance on Principle