No better counsel as to a method of effective prayer can be found than in the eleventh chapter of Mark's Gospel, wherein is recorded the earnest appeal of the Master to his disciples for greater steadfastness, faith in God, and forgiveness, if there be "ought against any." As a fitting climax to his admonition for unwavering faith, he promised, "What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." Thus the fulfillment of a desire for good depends upon the acceptance of good as already in one's possession.
Sometimes a beginner in the study of Christian Science may become bewildered as the old order of prayer, that of the persistent appeal of blind faith, is replaced by the prayer of affirmation. This enlightened affirmation is a very potent factor, however, in the teachings of Christian Science, and quite in accord with the words of Jesus already quoted. Instead of merely praying "God help us," as most of us have done at one time or another, Christian Science shows us how quietly and confidently to affirm that God is helping us. This is a very different mental attitude, and brings the assurance that help is already operative.
Wonderfully compelling words on the subject of prayer are found on pages 14 and 15 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" by Mary Baker Eddy. One who will read these pages every day, striving to be obedient to their instructions, will not only learn the true way regarding prayer, but win the right of way to that daily communion with God which is imperatively essential, if one would deny self and follow the great Exemplar. Under the marginal heading "Effectual invocation," we read: "In order to pray aright, we must enter into the closet and shut the door. We must close the lips and silence the material senses. In the quiet sanctuary of earnest longings, we must deny sin and plead God's allness." This is sure and sufficient guidance for those who would honestly approximate the humility and consequent demonstrations of Jesus.
