Article July 4, 1977 Issue

What God gives can't be given up

Inalienable Rights

MARYANN McKAY

We could define "inalienable" as that which cannot be surrendered or taken away. But Webster supplies us this interesting statement, which goes a step further: "that is 'inalienable' which one cannot give away or dispose of even if one wishes."

Think of the possibilities implied by that statement—especially in light of Mrs. Eddy's words, "God has endowed man with inalienable rights, among which are self-government, reason, and conscience." Science and Health, p. 106; Whatever God has given cannot be surrendered under any circumstance!

We can never be without God's gifts or give them up even if we suppose we can turn our back on them or believe we do not want them or refuse to express them. What are these spiritual gifts? Joy, eternal life, real substance, genuine love, are among them. As we better understand these gifts we see them more concretely expressed in our lives. Spiritual joy is evident in happiness and wellbeing, in enthusiasm for good and inspiring activity. The understanding of divine Life gives us undiminished health, overflowing strength, vitality.

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Freedom Right Now!
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