Churches of Christ, Scientist, situated in communities where there have been a number of violent crimes have sometimes organized committees to pray about this problem from the standpoint of Christian Science. The question presents itself, Is such a committee praying because of fear for the safety of the church members, or is it praying to rejoice in the omnipresent reign of all-loving divine Principle and its harmonious government of all being?
There is a world of difference between the two approaches. The first way is a way of fear, fear motivated. And Mrs. Eddy tells us: "Christian scientific practice begins with Christ's keynote of harmony, 'Be not afraid!' Said Job: 'The thing which I greatly feared is come upon me.'" Science and Health, pp. 410-411;
The second way is that of joyful realization—of perceiving the spiritual counter fact of the problem and affirming the power of a loving God to govern all being harmoniously.
