Article July 25, 1931 Issue

Testimonies

ADOLPH H. WELKER

Christian Scientists are grateful for the privilege of giving testimonies relative to the healing and protecting efficacy of prayer as taught in Christian Science. Testimonies given at the Wednesday evening meetings held in all Christian Science churches are given to glorify God, and with the intent to benefit the "simple seekers for Truth, weary wanderers, athirst in the desert" (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, by Mary Baker Eddy, p. 570), seekers who attend these meetings in happy anticipation of gaining more wisdom, understanding, and encouragement to continue on their journey to the "house not made with hands."

Truth demonstrated in experience is Immanuel, "God with us," a proof that the talent of spiritual healing has been exercised. By giving testimony of this experience, one proves his use of the talent, and thereby gains a greater appreciation of the benefits derived therefrom, and a greater sense of confidence and spontaneity when the next trial appears for solution. The giving of testimonies, therefore, not only serves to help those who are eager to hear them, but enables the giver to realize the value of the benefits gained. It opens greater channels for Truth and Love to enter thought, and obviates the possibility of the talent's being lost in desuetude.

Many instances of complete demonstration over some belief of sickness or other discordant condition have resulted from the giving of testimonies of gratitude which expressed joy and thanks for an improvement already manifested, even though only a slight one. An illustration of this is offered by the experience of a consecrated young student who was endeavoring to overcome the tobacco habit. While the truth had been earnestly and patiently applied to the condition for a considerable length of time, a persistent craving for tobacco still remained, although the use of it in various forms had become very obnoxious and satisfaction in its use was falling away. This condition continued until the student, in giving a testimony at a Wednesday meeting in a branch church, expressed gratitude for such relief as had already been obtained; and this resulted in a complete and permanent healing.

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