Testimony of Healing December 24, 1938 Issue

One of the first applications of Christian Science I made...

Marion Bernice Watson

One of the first applications of Christian Science I made when beginning its study was in connection with schoolwork.

During my first year in high school, it was announced that a scholarship would be awarded the student obtaining the highest marks in his class, and gold and silver medals to the two coming out first and second in the entire school. Naturally, it seemed desirable to strive for a prize. But analyzing the question, I realized that no material reward was worthy the aim of a Christian Scientist. Why, then, should I seek to win? It became clear to me that I should endeavor to excel, not for any personal recognition, but that God might be glorified. And how, in this, was God to be glorified? Through the expression of His qualities! Surely the ever-active, all-knowing Mind could not be glorified by neglect of one's human lessons, by doubt of one's God-given ability to do them, or by the fear which would keep one from doing his best at the time of examination.

An article in the Christian Science Sentinel which I pondered, stated, in effect, that the Christian Scientist approaches his work expecting perfect results. I knew that if I were complying with this, I should be just as happy while I was preparing for the perfect results as I should be in attaining them. Moreover, did not the Bible say, "Am I a God at hand, saith the Lord, and not a God afar off?" It seemed much more sensible to think of God as being right there, willing to help me to do well, than to look ahead to something indefinable.

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