Article November 18, 1950 Issue

RADICAL RELIANCE IMPLIES UNRESERVED OBEDIENCE

LESTER G. BESOLD

"Only through radical reliance on Truth can scientific healing power be realized." This statement by Mary Baker Eddy on page 167 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" is vital to everyone who seeks the understanding of Christian Science and its resultant healing. Radical reliance on Truth implies the acknowledgment of no authority or power apart from divine Mind. Then, as one admits that God alone governs, he must obey unconditionally the law of divine Principle, Love. The rules to be followed are plainly set forth in the Bible and in Science and Health. Any deviation from these fundamentals weakens or nullifies demonstration.

What are some of the requirements for radical reliance? To consider this question first from the standpoint of physical healing it is necessary to admit that man is God's own image, that God is adequate to care for His children and sustain the harmony of their existence, and that He does so because He loves them. As these facts are understood, the desire for material remedies disappears. The student soon learns that Christian Science permits no reservation on this point. Resort to material means, for whatever reason, would rob one of his faith in God and dethrone Deity.

Does one pray to God for healing in Christian Science and at the same time limit his prayer with the thought, If I am not healed at once, I shall take a pill, or, If I am not able to heal myself quickly, I shall call a practitioner? Such wavering faith is practically defeated at the outset, for it does not recognize the healing Christ sufficiently to bring it into human experience. Adulteration of full dependence on God's omnipotent love for His children must be uncovered and rebuked. The light of an honest and pure desire to glorify God will reveal these subtle suggestions and destroy them. Jesus said (John 11:42), "I knew that thou hearest me always." He had no doubt as to God's ability to answer righteous prayer.

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