Article September 27, 1924 Issue

"Ask, and it shall be given you"

JOHN ELLIS SEDMAN

Frequently the question is asked: Do Christian Scientists use petitions when they pray, or do they rely entirely upon denials of error and affirmations of truth? In answer, it may be said that Christian Scientists unqualifiedly accept Christ Jesus as their Way-shower and Exemplar in all things; and the great Master proclaimed in unmistakable terms the importance which he attached to the right kind of petitions. In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus not only said, "Seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you," but also, "Ask, and it shall be given you."

Christian Science makes plain the fact that since God is perfect, it is impossible for Him to change or to be changed. God is always sustaining and governing His creation aright; and since He knows all that can be known, He needs no information or advice. But so-called human minds and lives need to be transformed by the divine power. On page 360 of "Miscellaneous Writings" Mrs. Eddy writes, "Human lives are yet uncarved,—in the rough marble, encumbered with crude, rude fragments, and awaiting the hammering, chiselling, and transfiguration from His hand." An earnest, sincere turning to God in prayer, asking for His guidance and blessing, plays an important part in this transfiguring process.

When Solomon became king over Israel, he realized that the human mind could find within itself nothing that could prove adequate for the solution of the difficult problems which would devolve upon him as ruler over a great nation. He therefore turned to God, the divine Mind, for help. It is recorded that when God said, "Ask what I shall give thee," the young king replied, "Give ... thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people." Solomon's appeal was answered by an inflow of wisdom which not only blessed him and his people, but continues to bless us to-day through the pages of the Bible. Centuries later, James, a faithful follower of the Nazarene, gave to all mankind the inspired counsel, "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."

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