WHEN Balaam the prophet replied to the messengers of Balak, king of Moab, "I cannot go beyond the word of the Lord my God, to do less or more," he expressed a vital conviction, and one we do well to ponder. In the three chapters of the book of Numbers which describe the dramatic coming together and parting of Balaam and Balak, we learn how clearly the former, who spoke of himself as "the man whose eyes are open," saw how impossible it was for him to take from or add to the word of the Almighty. In the teaching of Christian Science we see no less clearly that the image and likeness of God cannot change aught which comes from changeless Love. Christ Jesus repeatedly said that the words he spoke and the works he performed did not come from himself, and he encouraged his followers by assuring them that it should be given them what they should speak, and that they should do even greater works than he did.
The explanation of these so long uncomprehended statements of the Master, are made clear in Mrs. Eddy's use of the word reflection, concerning which she writes: "Compare man before the mirror to his divine Principle, God. Call the mirror divine Science, and call man the reflection. Then note how true, according to Christian Science, is the reflection to its original" (Science and Health, p. 515). In the measure in which we turn away from the false beliefs and desires of the carnal mind and seek to manifest the Mind of Christ, we shall demonstrate the harmony and perfection of man made in the image and likeness of God. As we reach out toward the apprehension of this truth, we grasp the reason why it is impossible for us to do less or more. Turning to God, the only cause and creator, we shall seek to show forth that reflected light which shines to the glory of God alone.
When climbing some lofty mountain, we are apt to find that the way to the top winds round and about many a minor summit. There are many obstacles to be surmounted; but if we are persevering in our task, we shall in due time gain the desired eminence. Self-denial, humility, unswerving obedience to the law of God, so far as we apprehend it, — these are summits in our path. Hope, faith, and absolute reliance on divine Principle must attend our steps. Pure aims and high resolves will enable us to remain steadfast in purpose; and as we rise above the false material sense of things, we gain a better understanding of what the word of God signifies to man. Spiritual sense teaches us how to listen, how to understand, and how to obey. As thought becomes more spiritual, we are better able to lay aside the bur den of fear and rise into newness of life. It is the material sense of things which induces mental apathy, together with that withholding of en tire loyalty and obedience to the call of Truth which leads one to do less than is demanded of him. On the other hand, a false sense of personality, if not persistently set aside, tends to bring us defeat and should be knowingly cast out.
