Gratitude

SHIRLEY FRANCES EDGAR

It is not long before the beginner in Christian Science realizes that gratitude cannot be truly expressed while error is permitted to lurk in his consciousness. Nor is it possible to feel truly grateful while we talk on the side of error. We must think, talk, see, and know only good, if we are to be sincere in our expressions of gratitude. By thinking error we are denying the ever-presence and omnipotence of God, good. And if we are denying God His rightful place and power, we cannot for a moment imagine that we are proving our gratitude to the Giver of every perfect gift.

A Christian Scientist soon learns that many avenues are open to him whereby he may thank God for his blessings. A smile, a word of cheer, a kindly deed, a soft answer when bitterness seems to have crept in, a silent rebuke in place of open criticism, and an unselfish act,—what are these but true expressions of appreciation? Our revered Leader, Mary Baker Eddy, tells us on pages 3 and 4 of our textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures," that "while the heart is far from divine Truth and Love, we cannot conceal the ingratitude of barren lives." And she continues: "What we most need is the prayer of fervent desire for growth in grace, expressed in patience, meekness, love, and good deeds. To keep the commandments of our Master and follow his example, is our proper debt to him and the only worthy evidence of our gratitude for all that he has done. Outward worship is not of itself sufficient to express loyal and heartfelt gratitude, since he has said: 'If ye love me, keep my commandments.'"

The First Commandment, "Thou shalt have no other gods before me," is the keynote of Christian Science. When we understand this "me" to be Spirit, it follows that if we are to obey it we must know no other life, truth, love, no other power or presence, but the spiritual. Any deviation from this course means failure to keep God's commandments. And if we are not consistent in trying to keep His commandments, it stands to reason that we cannot be consistent in expressing gratitude to Him.

Happiness and joy must go hand in hand with gratitude. We cannot express gratitude while harboring, at the same time, any sense of discouragement. Discouragement has been termed one of the most efficacious tools of the devil (error, evil), because it always works in direct opposition to good. A sense of unhappiness claims to be far-reaching in its baneful effects, and proves harmful not only to its victim, but to all who come in contact with him. It claims to block the avenues through which good may flow; it strengthens the belief in a power apart from God, and retards the progress of individuals. It has no part in God, and cannot, for that very reason, be a part of God's reflection, man.

We sometimes say, It is easy to be happy when there is no cause for discouragement. But we learn in Science that there is but one cause,—God,—and therefore but one effect, and that good. God being the only cause, it follows that we can have no cause for anything but happiness, since happiness is the natural result of good. All effect being good, what possible reason have God's children for discouragement? When error seems intent upon usurping the place of good, then is the time to take our stand and to declare with unflinching faith the ever-presence of God, good. "Rejoice in the Lord, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness."

Send a comment to the editors

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit