Article October 17, 1925 Issue

The Will of God

ELIZABETH D. MERRITT

In the first sweet awakening to Truth which comes to each student of Christian Science, there is apt to be an impression that because he has actually beheld a genuine vision of the Christ he has arrived at the place where he is truly willing and able to lay down self-will in all its phases, and in humility accept the will of God. He is honest in praying, "Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven."

But here the questions arise: Is it possible for the student of Christian Science quickly to understand what this petition really means? Does he comprehend how much self-will claims to reign in his consciousness? Does he recognize the warfare in which he must engage before he can wholly eradicate this foe to his peace and happiness? To many Christian Scientists, even to those who for years have been endeavoring to demonstrate loving acquiescence to the Father's will, the answer to these questions must be in the negative.

In the light of the spiritual revelation which came to her, our beloved Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, was able to discern the real meaning of our dear Master's prayer, uttered to his heavenly Father when on the mount of Olives, in the hour preceding his betrayal, "Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done." On page 33 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" she tells us, "When the human element in him struggled with the divine, our great Teacher said: 'Not my will, but Thine, be done!'—that is, Let not the flesh, but the Spirit, be represented in me." Through this clear teaching we too are able to gain somewhat of an understanding of the real import of his words.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors