Article August 1, 1936 Issue

Consistent Thinking

JEANETTE F. SUTTON

According to a dictionary definition, one is consistent when "living or acting conformably to one's own belief or professions." Naturally, consistency in word and deed must be preceded by consistency in thought. It is evident, then, that as Christian Scientists we should conform our thinking to the scientific truths contained in the Bible and in the writings of Mary Baker Eddy. In "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. 354) our Leader has reminded us that "consistency is seen in example more than in precept."

Christ Jesus, who exemplified consistency with Truth in everything he said and did, instructed his followers to "judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment." This text has special significance for the Christian Scientist, for his religion teaches him how to judge righteously, that is, to recognize that spiritual perfection is always the fact, everywhere, even when material appearances suggest the opposite.

Before she had gained much understanding of Christian Science, a mother was inclined to ignore the faulty disposition evidenced by her child, although she was very much aware of the apparent shortcomings of other children. Later, mortal mind, as is its wont, swung to the other extreme, and she saw the erroneous traits manifested by her child as very real and disturbing. Finally, after a period of spiritual growth, attained through study and demonstration, she grew to understand that, regardless of what mortal mind would have us believe to the contrary at times, all children are, in their real spiritual selfhood, faultless, loving, unselfish, and harmonious—true representatives of divine Love. This new understanding enabled the mother not only to aid her own child in overcoming the false beliefs which were seemingly holding him in bondage, but also to maintain thereafter a more loving and helpful attitude toward all children.

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