When an individual is faced with an intricate problem in arithmetic, he can solve it only by applying his understanding of mathematical truths. He must reason correctly step by step until he arrives at the correct answer. The Christian Scientist's method of solving the problems of human experience also requires consistent, clear thinking, a step-by-step application of spiritual truth in an honest and sincere heart. Such mental activity is the opposite of blind faith; it is spiritually scientific knowing—thinking things through to the right conclusion.
Mary Baker Eddy writes in her book "Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures" (Pref., p vii): "The time for thinkers has come. Truth, independent of doctrines and time-honored systems, knocks at the portal of humanity." And farther on she writes, "The only guarantee of obedience is a right apprehension of Him whom to know aright is Life eternal." To know God aright requires correct thinking. To solve the problems of human experience, evidenced in such conditions as sin, fear, sickness, lack, and death, one must correctly use his knowledge of God as Spirit, of man as His spiritual idea, and of mortality as an illusion.
Christian Science requires of the student more than an intellectual acceptance or acknowledgment of spiritual truths. Human consciousness must become convinced of the facts of God's allness, of man's eternal spiritual nature, and of the nothingness of all material beliefs and conditions. Mrs. Eddy writes (Retrospection and Introspection, p. 21), "The heavenly intent of earth's shadows is to chasten the affections, to rebuke human consciousness and turn it gladly from a material, false sense of life and happiness, to spiritual joy and true estimate of being." In this activity of spiritual purification and realization right thinking plays an important part.
