Article October 30, 1937 Issue

Discipline

STACY H. MYERS

In contemplating the word "discipline" it is more than likely one would be led to an ordinary and uncomfortable sense of it. Perhaps it may appear disagreeable and tend to apply to some particular scene or event quite personal to the contemplator's experience. However, there is another phase of this word which means much to students of Christian Science. A dictionary definition may prove helpful: "The treatment suited to a disciple or learner; education; development of the faculties by instruction and exercise; training, whether physical, mental, or moral." This comprehensive definition should be sufficient to make the student of Christian Science realize the necessity of constant discipline. This true discipline is mental, and is accomplished by proper study and practice. To discipline thought necessarily involves constant watchfulness to discern whence it comes.

"The habitual struggle to be always good is unceasing prayer." So says Mary Baker Eddy, the Discoverer and Founder of Christian Science, in her textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. 4). This is a perfect rule whereby true discipline is attainable.

From the same source we find this complete definition of God (p. 465): "God is incorporeal, divine, supreme, infinite Mind, Spirit, Soul, Principle, Life, Truth, Love." This inspired definition enables students of Christian Science so to discipline their thoughts about God as to give them a better concept of Him and to obey the first and second commandments. By diligent study and practice the student soon learns that this definition of God clarifies the thought; that the understanding of the allness and ever-presence of God is to be enjoyed right here and now. Furthermore, it precludes the possibility of having "other gods before me," or of making "unto thee any graven image." Thus, as thought is uplifted, the graven images of materiality are proportionately destroyed, disease is healed, sin overcome, and idolatry reduced to nothingness.

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