Christian Science
Testimony
THROUGH CLOUDS TO
SUNSHINE
For some time past I have had a desire
to add my testimonial to the many others appearing in the
Journal, of the manner in which the blessed Truth of
Christian Science came into my life. Looking back on the
past, I cannot remember a time when I did not desire above
all else, power to consecrate myself to God. From a child I
was impressed with the thought of my total depravity. I grew
up under a continual dread of condemnation. I used to retire
by myself and read over and over again "Pike's Early Piety,"
and other books, urging young people to give their hearts to
God. When I was about twelve years old I attended a
watch-night service in a Methodist chapel in London,
England. The service was very solemn; the text taken from
Proverbs: "When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay
it." I remained on my knees in an agony of spirit, praying
that God would let me die rather than commit another sin
against him. The remembrance of the vows taken then has
continued with me through life. I continued for years
sinning and repenting until I came to Toronto to reside. I
was then led at once to listen to the preaching and teaching
of the "Plymouth Brethren." A present salvation was offered
to believers through Christ's finished work; also the
settled assurance and comforting truth that once a child,
always a child of God. Light broke into my soul. I
identified myself with them and remained with them over
sixteen years, until they were torn apart by divisions and
factions. I then began to see that it was possible to be an
ardent student of God's Word, well acquainted with its
prophetic teachings, and yet exhibit much of the works of
the flesh, and very little of the fruits of the Spirit.
About this time we, — myself and husband, — began
to doubt the Orthodox teachings of eternal torment. I
studied the Bible in order to satisfy myself as to its
teachings on that subject, using the various helps to
investigation. I found, to my intense satisfaction, that
such teaching was not there. When we expressed an opinion on
the subject, we were denounced as heretical, and considered
outside the pale of the church. We then went with a few
Christians who were in accord with us, led by Rev. Mr.
Brookman, formerly for twenty-five years a clergyman of the
Church of England; but doctrines did not satisfy me. The
constant desire for more light, for something higher, never
left me. I can now venture to say with the Psalmist: "He
satisfieth the longing heart, and filleth the hungry soul
with goodness."
About four years ago, my second
daughter was healed of chronic headaches through Christian
Science. She went through a class taught by Mrs. C. of
Flint, Michigan; and has been demonstrating Truth ever
since. She wrote me glowing accounts of the new-found
happiness and joy, but I was afraid of it. I thought I was
too well versed in the Bible to accept it at once. Did not
the apostles warn the early Church of the perilous times
coming in the latter days, when if possible, the very elect
would be deceived and led astray? After I began
investigating Christian Science I went through much mental
anxiety, seeing what then seemed to me to be much that was
contrary to the direct statements of the letter of the
Scripture. However, about one year and a half ago, I went
through a course of study with Mrs. H. of Chicago. For the
first month or two, all was bright and clear; but afterwards
seasons of darkness came over me. When I went home to
Toronto, I joined the devoted little band of loyal
Scientists. I have received much help from the meetings,
especially the students' meetings.
My experience, I presume, is much
like that of many other dear students. I have struggled
through many dark places; but have been cheered by many
flashes of Light; glimpses of the spiritual reality. I feel
that my footing is at last firm and secure, and I often
think of a friend (Scientist) who when asked by her pastor,
"Have you found God in your new religion," answered, "Why it
is all God." Previous to coming into Christian Science I had
much trouble from sickness, such as bronchitis, rheumatism
etc., but have never had to go back to material remedies.
When these claims have presented themselves I have applied
the Scientific statement of Being, and with that mighty
manna I have been able to drive back the enemy, both for
myself and for others.
"Through Clouds to
Sunshine" by Mrs. James Swift
The Christian Science Journal, June,
1893
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