One of the problems in uncovering error, or animal magnetism, is to maintain a proper perspective, in which we hold steadfastly to the fact that God, good, is real and all-powerful but that evil is unreal and impotent. Individuals are at various stages of growth metaphysically. Some need to be awakened to the various modes and methods of evil and alerted to the way of handling these errors. Others may be oversensitive to error and need to be calmed and instructed on how not to be afraid of evil. In the one case the individual is asleep and needs to be jolted awake; in the other case he may be jittery and need to be reassured.
In our study of the Bible and the Christian Science textbook, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures by Mrs. Eddy, we can find just what we need at the point of our growth. The story of Nehemiah rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem is an excellent example of the need for watchfulness and alertness. It uncovers various types of evil thought that would try to tempt one into indolence or unwise action. It also shows the rewards of alertness and steadfast persistence. There were arguments of weakness and treachery, but the people had a mind to work; with one hand each held a weapon and with the other built the wall. Mrs. Eddy says: "Human sense may well marvel at discord, while, to a diviner sense, harmony is the real and discord the unreal. We may well be astonished at sin, sickness, and death. We may well be perplexed at human fear; and still more astounded at hatred, which lifts its hydra head, showing its horns in the many inventions of evil. But why should we stand aghast at nothingness?" Science and Health, p. 563;
One should never lose sight of the fact that evil is unreal, that God, good, alone is the one creative power and that His creation is good, the manifestation of Love. The battle between good and evil goes on in individual consciousness, and the student can gain adequate guidance and instruction from the teachings of Christ Jesus and the detailed direction given to us by our Leader, Mrs. Eddy. Jesus pointed out various and devious types of evil, the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, the wickedness and slothfulness of the unwise servants, the material mindedness of the disciples. Sometimes he chided them for their lack of alertness and understanding. When he came upon them asleep in the Garden of Gethsemane he said, "Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak."Matt. 26:41;
