Any worthwhile endeavor requires persistent effort if excellence of performance is to be achieved. To understand and correctly apply the truths of Christian Science, the student must press on in making its precepts practical in daily living in order to bring healing to himself and others.
Mrs. Eddy tells us in Science and Health (p. 462): "Whoever would demonstrate the healing of Christian Science must abide strictly by its rules, heed every statement, and advance from the rudiments laid down. There is nothing difficult nor toilsome in this task, when the way is pointed out; but self-denial, sincerity, Christianity, and persistence alone win the prize, as they usually do in every department of life." Paul, who contributed much toward the spread of Christianity, also must have seen the need for persistence in achieving his goal, for he wrote (Phil. 3:14),"I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."
What is the student of Christian Science striving for? Is it not for spiritual understanding, whereby he may become conscious of the true nature of God, man, and the universe—a wholly good God, and man and the universe His wholly good expression? Is not his goal the realization of his freedom to demonstrate this understanding and thereby glorify God, good? Understanding, realization, and glorification assuredly bring healing.
