"We should examine ourselves and learn what is the affection and purpose of the heart, for in this way only can we learn what we honestly are." Mrs. Eddy writes these words for our instruction and guidance on page 8 of the textbook, Science and Health. Self-examination or introspective thinking is the practice of viewing objectively our own motives, of ascertaining our aims and purposes, of weighing the spiritual content of our daily lives.
Mrs. Eddy has made available through her discovery of Christian Science a scientific, demonstrable knowledge of God and of man in His image, spiritual and immortal. Divine Science reveals divine Principle, which defines all being; definite laws, which demonstrate the operation of divine Principle in human affairs; and fixed rules, by which all are enabled to prove man's perfection as God's own likeness here and now. An understanding of Christian Science brings health, supply, happiness, and harmony into daily experience. The attainment in some degree of a workable knowledge of Science, one which encompasses the whole of life-experience, requires systematic study and constant practice. As in any worthwhile study, frequent reviews or examinations reveal spiritual progress. They may also uncover areas in which there is need for greater activity and growth.
A pattern for introspection or self-examination may be found in the Bible in the twenty-first chapter of John. After his resurrection Jesus met seven of his disciples on the shore of the Sea of Tiberias. During the early morning breakfast with them, the Master questioned Peter three times, saying, "Lovest thou me?" In this question Jesus twice used the verb "love," meaning to love deeply, a pure spiritual affection. Peter twice answered the question using the verb "love," meaning to be fond of, a lesser degree of love. The third time Jesus put the question he used Peter's word, and Peter again protested his human devotion and fondness for his Master.
