Human beings spend much time looking for better methods for accomplishing things. They constantly search for new, improved ways of doing almost everything from looking after babies to building bridges. Christian Scientists are no exception. They have the responsibility to follow Christ Jesus' admonition to be "wise as serpents,"Matt. 10:16; to manage all their affairs intelligently, and to make the most of the opportunities they have to benefit others through their understanding of God.
A By-Law in the Manual of The Mother Church by Mrs. Eddy says, "God requires wisdom, economy, and brotherly love to characterize all the proceedings of the members of The Mother Church, The First Church of Christ, Scientist."Man., Art. XXIV, Sect. 5; Sincere students of Science are constantly watching for more effective ways of fulfilling these requirements in their individual, personal lives, and collectively in their branch churches.
Opinions differ as to what is wise, economical, and loving. There is no formula, no outlined program that everyone can use. Men and women are individual, each with a unique purpose and destiny. So are the branch churches of which they are members. Certain human methods may be right for one in a particular set of circumstances and at a particular time, yet they may not be right for another. But Christian Science shows that human ways and means are never truly intelligent and effective unless they are prompted by God, divine Mind. Even the most ingenious methods anyone can contrive will not be truly progressive unless they develop from the understanding of God, eternal Truth. The Bible perceptively says, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom."Ps. 111:10;
