Article November 11, 1939 Issue

Progress and Experience

SVEND PONTOPPIDAN BROBY

WITHOUT experience there can be no progress. The student of Christian Science welcomes experiences; he knows that they are milestones on his road from sense to Soul. It soon becomes apparent, however, to the one earnestly striving for an increasing understanding of God, good, that there are experiences which should be avoided. Why? Because they do not contribute to one's well-being or advancement.

Whatever tends to perpetuate the belief in matter should be regarded as an enemy, because it beclouds the spiritual sense of good and brings one farther into mental darkness. Fleshly appetites, such as the craving for intoxicants, the unnatural habit of smoking, or the indulgence of sensuous pleasures, all must give way to that which satisfies one's spiritual aspirations. Mary Baker Eddy writes on page 296 of the Christian Science textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures": "Progress is born of experience. It is the ripening of mortal man, through which the mortal is dropped for the immortal. Either here or hereafter, suffering or Science must destroy all illusions regarding life and mind, and material sense and self. The old man with his deeds must be put off."

One meets occasionally a young student of Christian Science who, having experienced a quick healing of some physical ailment, either through his own study or through the help of Christian Science practitioner, seems quite satisfied with the immediate result of having been restored to health and usefulness, but cannot see the necessity for daily study or consecrated mental work in order to learn more of the truth which healed him. Perhaps this is not to be wondered at when we remember that mortal mind, so called, is not interested in learning of its own unreal nature, but wants, rather, to keep what it is pleased to call its freedom to do as it chooses.

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Article

The Remedy Is Spiritual