Raised in Christian Science, I found early that prayer brings effective solutions to many different problems. But when it came to studying this Science, I had many excuses. I studied only as a last resort. I wanted the benefits that Christian Science affords, but without the work.
Frequently I felt a little guilty that I didn't study more, but for the most part I was willing to go along with a lackadaisical approach. As a member of a branch Church of Christ, Scientist, I attended services regularly and served on committees, but I was not really giving much support to these activities. I subscribed to the Christian Science periodicals but seldom read them.
Then one day, while picking up the accumulated unread periodicals to dispose of them, I began to see that I was wasting many opportunities for my individual spiritual growth. I wanted to do better but seemed to lack the discipline to give study of Christian Science top priority.
Many times I had thought of calling a Christian Science practitioner for prayerful support in helping me establish a more regular delving into the teachings of Christian Science, but I was too embarrassed and ashamed to admit to anyone how little I was studying.
Now, praying that this resistance would be healed, I turned to Science and Health, searching for the help I needed. When I read Mrs. Eddy's words "Desire is prayer,"Science and Health, p. 1; I knew this was where I should begin.
I had long desired to know God better and to understand more clearly man's purpose and identity; and desiring to give more, I now turned humbly to God in prayer. I knew He was the giver of all the strength and discipline I needed, and I was confident that whatever I needed to become a better student could not and would not be withheld. God is not the great unknowable, and I knew that systematic study of the Bible and Mrs. Eddy's writings would enrich my whole experience.
At first it was a real challenge to read the Bible Lesson in the Christian Science Quarterly; every day. Setting aside a quiet time was not always easy. But with an increasing desire to better serve my branch church, I found consistent study became for me a rewarding necessity. To keep current with the Christian Science periodicals required a considerable amount of self-discipline, but soon this forced effort became a joyous, unlabored part of my daily activities.
Not only was I learning more of the truth of God and man but significant changes were taking place in my life. I was elected to the executive board of my branch church. This enabled me to serve more fully. A short while later I was accepted for class instruction. A more suitable home was found. Lack lessened and financial limitations were no longer controlling my activities. More harmony was expressed in every avenue of my experience.
Truly, through study and the spiritual enrichment it brought, I experienced the fulfillment of Christ Jesus' promise, "Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."Matt. 6: 33.
