Article April 8, 1933 Issue

Learning to Lean on God

EDGAR P. WEBER

"To those leaning on the sustaining infinite, to-day is big with blessings." These words, comprising the opening sentence on page vii of the Preface to the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy, are a source of great comfort to students of Christian Science.

To one who had read and repeated this statement many times, always with a limited view of its significance, there came a time when a mere repetition of the words no longer satisfied; for "leaning on the sustaining infinite," as he was wont to do in the limited application of his understanding, did not bring him the needed comfort and support. However, through a more thorough analysis of the statement, he found that the word "leaning," interpreted in its fullest sense, designated the way to partake of the promised blessings.

The common acceptance of the word "leaning" would indicate a reliance on something besides one's self for support, a relinquishment of individual effort, in part at least, and dependence upon another for help; but a more thorough study of the meaning gives another and more scientific viewpoint. "To lean" is defined in part as "to incline in opinion or desire; to conform in conduct; to tend;" and also "to incline or bend so as to receive support." Hence, as we follow the rules of Christian Science our application of this comforting statement is broadened. We learn that to lean "on the sustaining infinite" is to tend toward divine Principle, to incline toward Love so as to receive its blessings. In seeking human comfort and support we turn to one who we know is capable of helping us. How, then, can we place our confidence in and lean for support upon "the sustaining infinite" without gaining a knowledge of the nature of God?

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Article

International Neighbors