Article January 19, 1935 Issue

Church Supply

JAMES K. WESTOVER

Hezekiah , who began his reign about 714 B.C., was one of the most prominent kings of Judah. Much of the creditable work accomplished under his direction toward the restoration of the temple service is set forth in the second book of the Chronicles. His father, Ahaz, had not done "that which was right in the sight of the Lord," and Hezekiah, although but twenty-five years of age, set about the very definite program of serving God after the manner of David, his illustrious forefather.

The people had withheld from the temple officials those portions of material substance which were required under the law. Hezekiah, however, reawakened the people "to give the portion of the priests and the Levites, that they might be encouraged." And they at once "brought in abundance the firstfruits of corn, wine, and oil, and honey, and of all the increase of the field; and the tithe of all things." When Hezekiah inquired concerning the results of this obedience, he was told that "since the people began to bring the offerings into the house of the Lord," there had been plenty for all purposes and a "great store" beyond actual needs. There was great joy in Jerusalem. Their prayer "came up to his holy dwelling place."

May we not, in the spiritual light with which Christian Science illumines the Scriptures, come to see in the life and experiences of Hezekiah a lesson of helpfulness and blessing applicable to our own present-day problems? Christian Scientists enjoy a unique advantage in solving the question of church supply. One outstanding feature of Mrs. Eddy's leadership was her ability to demonstate adequate supply for every legitimate need. She left an example of accomplishment through unshakable faith in God which is without parallel since the time of Jesus. Her earlier successes in handling the problem of supply, especially in connection with the building of The Mother Church edifice, served as an example in the more recent demonstration which resulted in the erection of the new Christian Science Publishing House in Boston. Our Leader taught the world, to a far greater extent than many realize, that supply, whether for the individual, church, or business organization, comes in abundance to those who turn to God with unclouded faith and clear understanding.

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