Article July 15, 1985 Issue

Our defense against manipulation

WILLIAM A. WILLIAMS, JR.

All of us feel influences daily that would attempt to manipulate us. Commercial advertisements on television, political speeches and promotions, and propaganda emanating from governments often seem intended to influence us to behave or think in patterns that may not be in our own interest or in the interest of our society at large.

Sometimes manipulation can be on a much more personal level. Relatives or friends, although well-meaning in their intentions, may attempt to influence us to rely on other than Christianly scientific means in dealing with a problem that we are trying to solve through prayer. At other times we may be confronted with pressure to consume alcoholic beverages, watch questionable movies, engage in immoral activities or unethical business practices. Often these attempts to manipulate us are presented in a friendly, humorous, or appealing way that may make us appear ungrateful or unfriendly if we do not yield to the pressures. Other times they are deliberately done in a way to embarrass us if we do not conform.

In these circumstances we may naturally feel a sense of frustration and conflict. We desire harmonious relationships, but at the same time we know that only moral and Spirit-based behavior and attitudes can bring spiritual regeneration and healing into our lives.

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Article

The sunshine of prayer