Testimony of Healing October 11, 1919 Issue

For seven or eight years after I became a student of...

Jennie L. Barto

For seven or eight years after I became a student of Christian Science, my demonstrations were for the most part made so quickly and so beautifully that it was easy for me to say and to believe that I was a Christian Scientist. Then came a time when I was compelled to obey the command, "Be still, and know that I am God." During this testing season I seemed to lose everything that I had financially, every home tie was shattered, and I found myself among strangers, without money, home, or position.

One hard experience after another came to me and many times I was almost heartsick and discouraged. Had it not been for two or three friends who were loyal Christian Scientists, and who sustained me throughout in every way they could, I think I should have yielded to discouragement. Finally, I found myself face to face with the most appalling condition that had ever yet come into my experience. As I looked before me, and to the right of me, and to the left of me, I could see not one single step. The only way that seemed open was to turn and go back, and this way seemed to offer again all that I thought was lost. My little daughter was out of school and had been for some time, and for the first time in her life she was being denied not only the little luxuries that make child life so sweet, but also the necessities of life. The mother love went out for the welfare of my child and held me at the point of indecision for I do not know how long—perhaps only a moment, but if so, eternity must have unfolded to me in that moment of time, for although I could see not one step in the way which I chose, I chose again for Christian Science, and reaching out my hand in the darkness about me I cried from the depth of my heart, "O God, lead me as a little child." I spent most of that night praying that God would lead me, and He did, for the seemingly impenetrable wall before me became a wall of defense to the rearward. Thus I was enabled to prove true the words of our dear Leader, Mrs. Eddy (Science and Health, p. 444), "Step by step will those who trust Him find that 'God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.'"

I write this testimony with the faith that it will help some one to see the light shining through the clouds of mortal sense. These trials when overcome help us to be stronger and more loving and humble, and all must drink of this cup if we would follow in the steps of the Master and have that Mind is us "which was also in Christ Jesus."

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