The average individual for the most part takes for granted the world in which he lives; he is more interested in effect than cause, in his own reactions and achievements than in seeking reasons for them. He therefore does not expect to analyze, far less take masterful possession of, the events and circumstances that appear to make or mar his life. He who has faith in prayer will pray, and the more earnestly when in need; but the prayer of faith, though it bring comfort and deliverance, is not enough. Without the prayer of spiritual knowing, one with Principle, governed by law, fear is not banished, progressive overcoming does not take place.
The Christian Scientist learns that there is no haphazard, incalculable cause, producing unpredictable, uncontrollable effects. Such effects are but the outcome of mortality's belief in many minds and diverse wills; its acceptance of a universe liable to the lawlessness of phenomena which it does not comprehend and is ignorant how to control.
After her healing, through reading one of the miracles performed by Jesus, when she was thought to be on her deathbed, Mary Baker Eddy realized that mortal mind alone was responsible for the ills of the flesh. She was not satisfied, however, to leave it there. She must penetrate farther. She had discovered and proved for herself that the power of Christ-healing was still present; that there was a spiritual law able to offset the verdict of mortal mind. But she had not discovered the Science which would promote faith into spiritual understanding. And this she set out to do. She says in "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. 109), "I knew the Principle of all harmonious Mindaction to be God, and that cures were produced in primitive Christian healing by holy, uplifting faith; but I must know the Science of this healing, and I won my way to absolute conclusions through divine revelation, reason, and demonstration."
