"UNDERSTANDING is a well-spring of life unto him that hath it: but the instruction of fools is folly," we read in the sixteenth chapter of Proverbs. How often have men asked if it is possible to gain an understanding of Deity which is reliable because it is true! Faith in God they may admit as possible, since they may believe that faith can be bestowed on something concerning which one is not altogether certain; but understanding—that is different, they argue, for it implies sure or certain knowledge. Throughout the ages it has been that way with doubting humanity.
Christian Science assures mankind that it is possible to obtain an understanding of God, a knowledge of God, which is true, absolutely true. Indeed, it gives that understanding. Here is how "God" is defined by Mrs. Eddy on page 587 of "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures": "The great I am; the all-knowing, all-seeing, all-acting, all-wise, all loving, and eternal; Principle; Mind; Soul; Spirit; Life; Truth; Love; all substance; intelligence." A marvelously comprehensive definition that! And as it is understood the foundation is laid, not for faith that is wavering and unstable, but for faith that is unchangeable.
If one studies the definition just given, one sees that God is acknowledged as All-in-all, as the all-knowing One; the Being in whom all wisdom, love, activity, and knowledge dwell; the only real substance; the Principle or cause, the Mind, Soul, Spirit, Life of the universe; infinite Truth and Love. And each of the aspects of Deity the definition presents is of the utmost importance, since when understood it meets some human need, some human point of view.
