Ever since Mary Baker Eddy discovered the Science of being and founded the Christian Science movement, earnest seekers of Truth have found the study of spiritual metaphysics of paramount importance. They have learned that through this study spirituality can be gained and a degree of genuine peace and contentment experienced. They have found that because of their wholesome living their sense of the physical universe gradually but steadily fades away and is replaced by a tranquillity that more and more approaches heaven.
Spiritual metaphysics is a Science, and the application of this Science is an art of the highest order. Thus we see how necessary it is that the errors and pitfalls presented by the so-called carnal mind should be carefully recognized and avoided, for they tend to nullify every effort Spiritward. A progressively clearer understanding of metaphysics and a closer identification with its precepts make it increasingly obvious that there is actually no carnal or mortal mind to present these obstacles.
Until, however, that status is reached it is important to consider the errors which so easily seem to beset us, to see them for what they are or pretend to be, and to nullify them with the understanding of the truth. Mrs. Eddy states in her textbook, "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (p. 252), "A knowledge of error and of its operations must precede that understanding of Truth which destroys error, until the entire mortal, material error finally disappears, and the eternal verity, man created by and of Spirit, is understood and recognized as the true likeness of his Maker."
