Article May 9, 1925 Issue

"Ask, and it shall be given you"

ETHEL M. MC CANDLESS

In the first chapter of James we read, "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." In one of her earlier messages to The Mother Church, Mrs. Eddy says (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 127): "One thing I have greatly desired, and again earnestly request, namely, that Christian Scientists, here and elsewhere, pray daily for themselves; not verbally, nor on bended knee, but mentally, meekly, and importunately. When a hungry heart petitions the divine Father-Mother God for bread, it is not given a stone,—but more grace, obedience, and love." This vital message of our Leader was also read at the laying of the corner stone of the extension of The Mother Church, thus emphasizing its import to Christian Scientists.

While looking up some references on the subject of prayer, the writer was much impressed by the above message; and especially did the word "importunately" stand out. The word means "urgently," or "to urge persistently." As the definition was pondered and the message read over and over again, it became clear to the writer that she had not been doing what our dear Leader had requested. The questions, therefore, presented themselves. Are you always consciously desiring to know more of God, good? Are you longing "importunately" to know His will and how to obey it? And she knew she was not.

Then how was this to be attained? The answer came, Pray for it. Then she turned again to the message and read, "If this heart, humble and trustful, faithfully asks divine Love to feed it with the bread of heaven, health, holiness, it will be conformed to a fitness to receive the answer to its desire." So, one must be prepared to receive the answer to his desire; and this preparation is made through prayer.

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

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Article
Self-Knowledge
May 9, 1925
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit