Article January 13, 1917 Issue

"Seek ye first"

AMY C. FARISS

It would seem impossible that a student of Christian Science could read and reread Mrs. Eddy's admonitions and inspired instructions in regard to the source of supply, and still go blindly on seeking to find daily provision through material means or human personalities. Yet so obstinate is mortal mind in letting go its grip on matter, that many trials may have to be borne before its hold is loosened and the real provider of all needs is seen to be God only.

Nothing could be more beautifully clear on this subject than our Leader's words in reference to the "fundamental error of faith in things material" (Retrospection and Introspection, p. 31), where she also says, "For this trust is the unseen sin, the unknown foe,—the heart's untamed desire which breaketh the divine commandments." Still with tenacious persistency the human mind tends to cling with its baneful grip to just this one thing,—faith in matter, belief that some person or some material circumstance must be depended upon, if relief is to be had from the strained condition which the human mind's own fear has brought about. Again and again the folly of this course may have been proven, and the needed help may have come from a few moments of uplifted thought, yet the lesson must needs be learned over, at least in some cases. One instance in particular the writer will venture to relate, in the hope that it may be of help to others who are finding trouble with their financial problems.

In this instance the student of Christian Science had experienced many proofs of God's unfailing care. Health and joy had beamed into her heart much as the sunshine penetrates the branches of some drooping plant and lights up its every leaf; wonderful protection had been vouchsafed her in cases of accident and in many other ways, yet the torment of worry cried aloud until lack threatened to be one of the difficulties to be overcome. The times in the past, when, after much unnecessary struggle, pure uplifted thought and simple trust had gained the ground, when gaunt dread had been dissolved and glad plenty was found to be the only fact,—these splendid victories were unavailing this time to keep eyes bright and lips smiling. At the first approach of the enemy, cowardly dismay seemed to creep closer and closer behind the trembling footsteps. Then an incident occurred which should have forever silenced doubt and blazed a path across all the stretch of shadows which the future might hold,—a path in which ever after her feet might tread securely.

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