Article October 16, 1937 Issue

Motives and Methods

GRACE BISSELL BARBER

To one whose motives are right, error must present itself in very subtle ways in order to be accepted as truth. We need right methods in our endeavor to accomplish good, as well as right motives. Error would attempt to impede the progress of students of Christian Science by blinding them to the nature of error, which may include self-will. Only by setting self-will aside and humbly praying, "Not my will, but thine, be done," can God's purpose be revealed.

Mary Baker Eddy, the beloved Leader of the Christian Science movement, was successful in bringing its varied activities into being because she was truly humble, always listening for the "still small voice" to direct her. In no other way could The Mother Church, the Publishing Society, the Board of Lectureship, and the periodicals, including The Christian Science Monitor, have been established in all their order, harmony, and efficiency.

Mrs. Eddy told all her students to follow her only in so far as she followed Christ (see Message to The Mother Church for 1902, p. 4). Jesus prayed continually to be shown the Father's way. He was "the best man that ever trod the globe" (Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mary Baker Eddy, p. 52). In his agony in the lonely garden of the Mount of Olives, in the night shadows, when, heedless of his travail, his disciples were sleeping, he prayed the prayer of humility. The suggestion came to him that he did not need to drink the bitter cup. "Remove this cup from me," he prayed; but he instantly knew that this suggestion was an attempt to frustrate his mission for humanity's redemption, and to deprive him of the imminent fruits of his holy life. The result we all know. His glorious victory over "the last enemy" was followed by the glory of his ascension.

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The Place of Christian Science Organizations at University or College
October 16, 1937
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