What Are God's Means?

LOLA LINSTEADER LESTER

One morning I asked myself: What simple truth, or combination of truths, do I need today that will enable me to express God's healing power in quicker and more permanent healing? This statement from Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mrs. Eddy came to thought: "Prayer, watching, and working, combined with self-immolation, are God's gracious means for accomplishing whatever has been successfully done for the Christianization and health of mankind."^{Science and Health, p. 1;}

Aroused by this counsel, I pondered it for quite some time. Prayer, watching, working, self-immolation—these four basic requirements for spiritual progress may be likened to a strong cord binding us to steadfastness of purpose and effort. They awaken and inspire thought, increase our spiritual understanding, give hope, light our path. They purify, point to wisdom, give direction, help one make right decisions, and advance us in the healing practice of Christian Science. As we study Mrs. Eddy's writings, we find ourselves hungering and thirsting for inspiring truths each morning as we start the day.

Understanding prayer dispels mental darkness and lifts thought into light. Prayer shows us the right steps we need to take in our walk with God. "The Christian Scientist wisely shapes his course, and is honest and consistent in following the leadings of divine Mind,"^{ibid., p. 458;} Science and Health tells us. Steps firmly taken at God's direction will not falter. We need to sweep away the false teaching that God is both good and evil and that He can be present at one time and absent at another.