A Lesson in Overcoming

L. R. E.

I feel I must not longer lag in my duty to our Journal and Sentinel, for surely I have received many blessings through their columns. I have very little, if anything, to say, that will interest those older in Science than myself, but there are so many younger than I, that I hope I may give forth a glimmer of light.

"To him that overcometh," etc. This seems to be an ever-present thought with me. I had the privilege of class instruction from one of our dear Leader's loyal students some nine months since. On taking up my daily work thereafter the last admonition given seemed to give me the keynote to commence my living (living before was existence only): "Whatever you do, if only sweeping a room, do it the best you can."

I did not stop to listen to error, which whispered, "Didn't you always do that?" I simply went to work disciplining self to do all things better. My heart goes out in gratitude, for this practical suggestion, which followed as faithfully as I knew how, led me to see the Light. It was, I saw, the commencing of the overcoming of which Jesus spoke. Only a little thing, but how great the results only those who have practised it know. I want to tell of just one little over coming. I have always been self-indulgent as to my duties, so it was with struggles (to sense) that many trifling things were overcome. I had not found it necessary to deny myself the pleasure and privilege of reading the Sentinel as soon as it came, even though other things needed immediate attention. The thought came to me that I was sometimes neglecting work that should be finished before indulging in the pleasure of reading this much appreciated and enjoyable visitor. After this I laid it (the Sentinel) aside tul work that needed my attention was completed. I must acknowledge in such a simple task as this, it was with difficulty that I conquered, so great was my desire to read and enjoy its contents. Out of such little things come the issues of life. I find the blessings appear proportionately as I really overcome (conquer the counterfeit self).

I have had but little to meet in the way of physical discord. My first demonstration was so remarkable to myself and child at the time it was made that I want to tell it. hoping it may help some who feel they lack sufficient understanding. I had read Science and Health for some time, but thought I did not understand it. I had never had a treatment and had talked very little with others about Christian Science.

My son (a youth of fifteen years) called to me from his bed one morning, saying he had a terrible earache. I said, "I do not know what to do for it, only to read Science and Health (medicine was not considered for a moment, for had I not turned to God?). The child got up and took the book and read, but impatiently said, "It does no good. Science may be good for some things but not for earache." He put cotton in his ear, and continued to groan. I finally said, "Come to me and I will see what I can do for you." I said, "Take the cotton out of your ear, and give me the book." He obeyed—no relief. The pain now had commenced to go down to the jaw and the suffering increased. I finally said, "You take the wheel and a dollar and go to Mrs. W. for a treatment." No, he would not consent to this. "Well, see here," I said, "God is just as near to me as He is to Mrs. W., and I want you to read this Christian Science Journal and give me the book." In less than twenty minutes he had perfect relief from pain, and furthermore has never had a return (now two and a half years), while before he had such attacks frequently, being supposedly the after effect of measles. One proof is worth a million speculations. I thankfully express my gratitude to Mrs. Eddy for the overcoming of all she has had to conquer of the mortal self that she might give us the understanding of Truth to live by, and I do not forget the helpful words of all who have endeavored to help me to a better understanding.—L. R. E., Chicago, Ill.

Send a comment to the editors

NEXT IN THIS ISSUE

Testimony of Healing

A Traveling Man in Christian Science

October 18, 1900

Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit