Testimony of Healing October 18, 1952 Issue

"Except the Lord build the...

Arthur Y. Scott with contributions from Mary C. Scott

"Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it" (Ps. 127:1). The Psalmist undoubtedly realized the necessity for divine guidance in human affairs. Every individual may avail himself of this guidance; but the student of Christian Science who honestly studies and practices the truths of the Bible, as revealed through the writings of Mary Baker Eddy, brings it more effectively into his consciousness and thus into his human experience. Although one may at times ignore this spiritual influence, the Father's plan for His beloved child is always operative; and it is comforting to know that this will eventually be realized by everyone.

As a young man I was extremely ambitious to reach the top in whatever project I undertook, and I found that Christian Science gave me an ability to do so. On two or three occasions in different firms I rapidly reached a high executive position, but always at this point, for one reason or another, it was decided that I was not required any longer, and I was asked to resign. At those times I felt a great sense of injustice, for I had put a tremendous amount of effort and thought into my work. Looking back, I realize that I was being taught a lesson, for I needed to exchange a sense of personal pride and achievement for a humble and sincere acknowledgment of what Christian Science was doing for me.

Mrs. Eddy uses the word sincerity several times in her writings, and two statements were particularly helpful in my experience. In her Message to The Mother Church for 1900, she writes (p. 9), "Sincerity is more successful than genius or talent," and in "The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany" she says (p. 203), "A deepsincerity is sure of success, for God takes care of it." In some measure spiritual attainment is taking the place of human ambition in my life. This fact has resulted in a complete change in my business activity, has brought me increased supply, and has given me more freedom to pursue the study and practice of Christian Science.

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