Paul, in writing to the Ephesians, did not minimize the spiritual equipment, the alertness, the wisdom, and the courage that would be needed for those who, having withstood evil, continue to stand with God. Not isolated and occasional is the call to men and to nations to stand with Principle. In private life, as in public, it is exacting, imperative in small things not less than in big. When imbued with patience, with courage, and with steadfast confidence in the supreme power of right to master wrong, men can know that they are doing that which is needed in order to stand. No combination of circumstances, no conspiracy of evil, can overthrow those who abide by the words of the hymn (Christian Science Hymnal, No. 134), "Held in Thy law, I stand."
The Revelator beheld a "mighty angel come down from heaven, clothed with a cloud: and a rainbow was upon his head, and his face was as it were the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire: and he had in his hand a little book open." In this vision of strength and enlightenment, John saw also the result of such divine equipment". He saw the angel stand upon the sea and earth. He saw spiritual supremacy in demonstration. In the consciousness of heavenly power, in the possession of the open book of scientific Christianity, men can stand unmoved in the face of the most aggressive, intimidating arguments of the enemy.
With earnest, significant words, Mary Baker Eddy asks the following question (Miscellaneous Writings, p. 99): "How many are there ready to suffer for a righteous cause, to stand a long siege, take the front rank, face the foe, and be in the battle every day?" Our Leader saw what the men and nations of the world must be willing to sacrifice and endure if good is to triumph over evil. She knew that vision and resolution, consecration and purity of purpose, alone would inspire them with that which knows neither hesitation nor surrender.
