Article November 7, 1925 Issue

Praise and Prayer and Song

BRIGMAN C. ODOM

Healing through spiritual means alone is still regarded with disfavor by many Christians. Christian Science, which is primitive or true Christianity, places spiritual healing first and foremost. This means of healing is ever at hand, and is available for use in destroying every form or phase of error. It comes to one as the result of right thinking and right doing. In "The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany" (p. 210) Mrs. Eddy writes: "The right thinker abides under the shadow of the Almighty. His thoughts can only reflect peace, good will towards men, health, and holiness."

Right thinking expresses itself in every natural way of communication or expression. Some of these ways may be a word, a look, or a smile; it may be a song, or other form of joy or rejoicing. All these varied expressions, including sacred music, whether instrumental or vocal, may be construed as praise or prayer. This prayer of song, or other similar expression of praise, when it is the true outcome of spiritual understanding, heals the sick, uplifts those in sorrow and discouragement, impresses favorably the wrongdoer or the sinner, and reforms him. It brightens and gladdens the heart of every one who hears it; it renews hope and courage, and makes stronger and better every one who finds pleasure in this method of worship.

On one occasion Saul was under some influence of evil: he was unhappy; he was in distress; and he sent for David to come with his harp and play. Saul was then refreshed; he was restored; he was healed. Paul and Silas prayed and sang in the prison at midnight, and were loosed from their chains. These show the power of sacred music as a means of approach to God; and it should not be surprising that many persons are healed everywhere to-day as the result of the spiritualizing of thought which it brings about.

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