Are you sure?
This bookmark will be removed from all folders and any saved notes will be permanently removed.
Giving of our substance
Originally published in The Christian Science Monitor’s Christian Science Perspective column September 10, 2025.
Could it really be true that “Giving does not impoverish us in the service of our Maker, neither does withholding enrich us,” as Mary Baker Eddy states in her textbook on Christian Science, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures (p. 79)? This statement was part of a Bible Lesson from the Christian Science Quarterly on the subject of “Substance.” I was praying to understand that this idea really is true when I was feeling unwell whilst on a city walking tour.
As I reached out to God in prayer, something came to thought that Jesus said to his disciples: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). Another way he said this was in the Lesson: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Initially, I felt like saying, “But it’s me that needs help.”
At that moment I was “absorbed in material selfhood” (Science and Health, p. 91). That is, I was focused on the fear and the pain I was feeling, thoughts which would seem to get in the way of us hearing and obeying what God tells us. But having heard God’s demand for unselfed love, I knew I could obey that demand and take a strong stand against being distracted by such thoughts that aren’t from God. Instead, I could discern my spirituality and capability to love my neighbor as myself, as Jesus directed.
Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.
