Angels

CLYDE N. DIRLAM

At a time of widespread fear and economic distress, how comforting and assuring it is to realize and utilize the true meaning of the word "angels," defined, in part, by Mary Baker Eddy, Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, on page 581 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" as "God's thoughts passing to man; spiritual intuitions, pure and perfect." Comprehension of the practical value of this definition may be greatly enhanced by a study of the words of the same author as found in "Miscellaneous Writings" (p. 307): "God gives you His spiritual ideas, and in turn, they give you daily supplies."

It is here apparent that there is a certain prerequisite to the reception of that which is regarded as necessary to human existence. Careful consideration of the nature of God reveals the fact that He recognizes only that which is the reflection of Himself, Spirit, for in reality nothing else exists. Therefore, it is futile to expect God to be cognizant of human lack and to supply matter in alleviation thereof. God is always pouring forth, impartially and universally, an infinite abundance of spiritual good. It follows, then, that to receive this bestowal human consciousness must be conformed to spiritual truth. It must be purified, so as let God's reflection appear.

Man's sole duty is to glorify God through reflecting Him. Unless the capacity to discern spiritual ideas is developed, although the ideas are ever present they cannot be perceived and demonstrated. This unfoldment is necessary in preparing thought for the realization of the ever-presence of infinite good and an accompanying understanding of substance and supply as being separate from the foibles of matter and resting upon the unalterable foundation, God.

A question may arise as to the connection between spiritual ideas and the obtaining of the necessaries of human sustenance. These spiritual ideas, held to persistently and consistently, are expressed in human experience through bettered conditions and a surer sense of one's rightful place and work. When human consciousness is illuminated by an understanding of God, human effort becomes more intelligently directed. The ominous shadows of fear, struggle, chance, and disappointment are removed, and God-directed footsteps lead to that which is humanly necessary, whether it be a position, a business opportunity, or what not.

In pursuing this line of reasoning, one may obtain much assistance from considering the truth that God is the only lawmaker; that His law is omnipotent, is never suspended or thwarted; and that whatever material sense may try to say about displacement and inactivity is without origin, authority, or power. God's universe is one of harmony and order, and each of His ideas is always in its right place, expressing its divinely governed activity. Comprehension of the fact that this truth applies to the immediate present brings great illumination to every problem.

In proving the power of God to overcome the beliefs of lack or inactivity, the student always has two valuable allies—gratitude and generosity or willing giving. Gratitude is an attestation to the power of God, good, an acknowledgment of "God's thoughts passing to man." The contemplation of it affords strength and courage, and prepares thought for additional proofs of God's loving care for His children. When faced with a seeming lack of supply, it might appear to be unreasonable to think that one should have anything to give. However, the situation, examined in the light of the everpresence and omniactivity of God, Mind, reveals manifold opportunity for giving. Even a seeming shortage of the goods of this world cannot rob one of this privilege; for giving is primarily mental, and its expression may assume a form other than the bestowal of the material symbols of wealth.

There is always need for righteous prayer for humanity; and a kind word, an act of courtesy or helpful advice, given in the right way, is assurance that "God is seen with men to dwell;" and better than gold or silver, loving-kindness thus expressed not only alleviates, but heals. Encouraged by these mental comrades, "spiritual intuitions," the student is enabled to press on, knowing that angels are ever at hand to heal and to bless, and that his capacity to entertain them is measured by his practice of Jesus' admonition, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you." And he may rest assured by the words of the Psalmist, "He shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways."

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