Understanding Faith
by Dr. Ernest Holmes
We wish a faith based on the knowledge that there is nothing to fear! “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” The thought of faith molds the undifferentiated substance, and brings into manifestation the thing which was fashioned in the mind. This is how faith brings our desires to pass.
When we use our creative imagination in strong faith, it will create for us, out of the One Substance, whatever we have formed in thought. In this way man becomes a Co-Creator with God. There will never be an end to any of the eternal verities like Truth, Love, Beauty. There will never be an end to God, nor to any of the attributes which are coeternal and co-existent with God. If we are wise, we shall cultivate a faith in these realities. This is not a difficult task, but a thrilling experience.
Spiritual Substance is all around us, waiting to be formed. Thus we see what Jesus meant when he said: “And I say unto you, Ask and it shall be given unto you.” The Law must work in compliance with our demand. The Divine Urge within us is God’s way of letting us know that we should push forward and take that which is awaiting our demand. If the good were not already ours in the invisible supply, it would be impossible for us to procure it in any manner. “He openeth his hand and satisfieth the desire of every living creature.”
No Confusion
History has recorded many instances of healing through faith.
This is an undisputed fact. Yet we cannot believe in a Divine Power that responds more quickly to one than to another. We are compelled to see that prayer is not an end of itself; it is a means to an end. Like the practice of the Science of Mind, it is a way. The principle governing faith is, that when the one praying becomes convinced his prayer will automatically be answered. Jesus announced the law of mind, saying: “It is done unto you as you believe.” The Universe exists by Its own self-pronouncement, by Its own affirmation. It only knows “I AM.” It knows nothing else. Therefore, wherever prayer, in faith, touches Reality, prays aright—prays according to whatever the Truth is—then prayer must be answered.
Holmes, Ernest (1998-08-24). The Science of Mind: The Definitive Edition (pp. 157-158). Penguin Group. Kindle Edition.
Ernest Holmes, Founder of Religious Science and author of many books, including “The Science of Mind.”