IT is prophesied in Isaiah regarding Christ Jesus, "He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth." Because Jesus knew that he had the support of Spirit and spiritual law, he went courageously forward in solving mortal problems and lovingly meeting human needs; and Christian Scientists, his humble followers, aspire to do the same, from the same spiritual basis.
Now in order to express courage, which a dictionary defines as "active fortitude; strength of heart," this Christian quality must not be thought of as merely personal and liable to fluctuate according to circumstances. Spiritual courage is ever stable and undaunted. We cannot conceive of God, Truth, becoming discouraged or doubtful, and Truth, through its witnesses, triumphs over error. On the other hand, doubt and discouragement are accomplices; subtle, treacherous, silent suggestions of the carnal mind: always traitors to Truth. Faith in God, good, and courage are loyal allies.
In "The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany" (p. 131) Mrs. Eddy writes, "That which refines character at the same time humbles, exalts, and commands a man, and obedience gives him courage, devotion, and attainment." The Christian Scientist, then, is not fighting only for his own rights; he is commanded to fight obediently for the Cause of God, good, on earth, and no soldier is required to march out alone; his comrades are with him. Even though a Christian Scientist be waging his fight with sickness or some other problem in a remote corner of the globe, he is not fighting alone. Not only is God, good, with him, but the spiritual courage and fidelity expressed by Christian Scientists all over the world strengthen the hands of every unseen warrior, through the unity of good. Paul was on his way to Rome when he beheld some of the Christian brethren coming towards him, and seeing them, "he thanked God, and took courage." What need is there, then, for discouragement, since we can always reach out mentally for the courage that is at hand? How reassuring it is to know that courage does not have to be evolved from some trembling human heart! One has but to realize that God Himself is inspiring and renewing his courage, because he is fighting for the Cause of Truth on earth; and the promise stands, "Deal courageously, and the Lord shall be with the good."
