Article December 8, 1951 Issue

HASTEN AND PREVAIL

ELIZABETH MYERS HARDING

That the Discoverer of Christian Science, Mary Baker Eddy, deeply appreciated the significance of David's victory over Goliath is indicated in a passage on page 268 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" which reads: "Belief in a material basis, from which may be deduced all rationality, is slowly yielding to the idea of a metaphysical basis, looking away from matter to Mind as the cause of every effect. Materialistic hypotheses challenge metaphysics to meet in final combat. In this revolutionary period, like the shepherd-boy with his sling, woman goes forth to battle with Goliath."

Every Christian Scientist is called upon to face the challenge of materialistic hypotheses. Indeed, there appear to be many champions of mortal mind's creating, striding about with impressive names or alluring appearances which would frighten or entice mankind. But whatever their name or nature, the method used by David to challenge the giant is effective because it is scientific. Goliath exemplified the thought which believes in a material basis as cause and effect. He placed his confidence of victory in his physical strength reinforced with a heavy coat of mail. Knowing he made an impressive and formidable sight, he presented himself morning and evening within view of the army of Israel. Mesmerized by this array of materiality, the men of Saul's army "were dismayed, and greatly afraid" (I Sam. 17:11), so that none dared go forth to meet the champion of the Philistines.

Many individuals today have joined these men of Israel and are filled with fear at the picture of chaotic world conditions, of dreaded diseases enveloping them, of seemingly hopeless financial situations, of involved human relationships in the home or in business. These are among the giants of today claiming to be invincible.

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