Article August 11, 1986 Issue

"Count it all joy"

ELOISE M. HOTZ

Joy is an important quality of thought because it supports and promotes healing. The joy that is part of our being as children of God contributes to our ability to face any challenge with conviction, the conviction that it can be mastered. What an awakening to realize that joy isn't something we experience only after we have met a challenge; it actually is part of our defense and our method of overcoming any inharmonious condition.

I learned this lesson when I was facing a painful and persistent physical difficulty. For several days I prayed and studied, but the burden of physical discomfort weighed heavily, and I asked for help from a Christian Science practitioner. She answered my request with an outpouring of love and an explanation that I was in God's care, and she gently observed that I should find my joy and maintain it!

Find my joy? My first reaction was that she didn't understand the gravity of the situation. Then I reasoned, "You asked for help, expecting to be healed, so be obedient." Quickly these words from the first chapter of James came to thought: "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations." James 1:2. I opened my Bible and carefully and thoughtfully read that chapter in its entirety.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Poem
Joy, with gratitude!
August 11, 1986
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit