Article May 10, 1930 Issue

Perseverance

LOUISE VAN DER WYCK

The book of Job opens with the narrative of a naturally good man enjoying a happy, prosperous life. Not having discerned, however, the unchangeable and permanent nature of good as the normal expression of the divine Principle of creation, which is Love, and in consequence the nothingness of the claims of mortal mind called "animal magnetism," he continues to be overwhelmed by its suggestions until, through faith, perseverance, and spiritual understanding, his real manhood is revealed to him.

When temptation comes to Job in the form of sickness and loss, his grief is very great and he sits among the ashes. But in his extremity, step by step, he clings increasingly to God, and this makes the power of God available to him.

"Whence then cometh wisdom? and where is the place of understanding?" Job asks. His willingness to listen for God's instruction is immediately rewarded by the statement: "God understandeth the way thereof, and he knoweth the place thereof. ... Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding." Evidently he obeyed his spiritual vision, and, consequently, his thoughts were purified of self, pride, anger, and self-pity; and his heart was filled with sincerity, meekness, and love, the fruits of spiritual understanding. He ultimately hears the voice of God more distinctly, for we read: "Then answered the Lord unto Job out of the whirlwind, and said, Gird up thy loins now like a man: I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me. ... Deck thyself now with majesty and excellency; and array thyself with glory and beauty. ... Tread down the wicked in their place."

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