Article November 21, 1970 Issue

The Rewards of Perseverance

JEANETTE F. SUTTON

Perseverance has its rewards. As a rule, when the spiritual verities of God's allness and man's perfection as His son are applied to a problem, it is soon resolved. On some occasions, however, evil may still claim place and power even though one persists in his application of these truths as Christian Science reveals them. At such a time one's fidelity to Truth and Love is tested. One may question why he is not healed, and be tempted to indulge such errors as rebellion, discouragement, or self-pity. This state of thought retards healing, for it would make a reality of what is unreal, and it indicates doubt of God's power to deliver from discord.

Error, or evil, in any form it may assume, is unreal and powerless because it is not made by God, good, the only creator. Error never attains reality or power, nor does it ever become part of man's spiritual being, which, as God's expression, is invariably perfect and harmonious. Perseverance in truthful affirmation, coupled with the exercise of patience and courage, brings sure reward, for this method makes one's thought receptive to the healing power of infinite, omnipresent divine Mind.

Mrs. Eddy writes in Science and Health: "'Work out your own salvation,' is the demand of Life and Love, for to this end God worketh with you. 'Occupy till I come!' Wait for your reward, and 'be not weary in well doing.' If your endeavors are beset by fearful odds, and you receive no present reward, go not back to error, nor become a sluggard in the race." She continues, "When the smoke of battle clears away, you will discern the good you have done, and receive according to your deserving." ^{Science and Health, p. 22;}