As we consider the topic of violence this month, it behooves us to remember that we need never give our consent to violence as a means of solving world problems. When the prophet Elisha brought the captured army of Syria to the King of Israel, the King asked if his army should “smite them.” But Elisha counseled that they be treated humanely, with the result that “…the bands of Syria came no more into Israel.” (II Kings 6) Rather than war, let us choose reason, conscience, and divine Love to bring peace and prosperity. The Reading Room thanks you.…

There are times when we may feel that those around us aren’t seeing who we are, the potential we possess, the abilities that are native to us. They fail to see our intrinsic worth. At times like this, it is vital to remember that God, divine Mind, knows us completely. In Isaiah, we find this precious promise: “Behold, I have graven thee on the palms of my hands;” (49:16) Acknowledging this perpetual identification and protection, we can confidently move through our days in the strength of knowing not only who we are, but also that God knows us. Becoming aware of our individuality as a child of God is the Reading Room’s assignment for us in June.…

There is a perception that some levels of wrongdoing are forgivable, while other crimes leave a permanent mark of guilt that can never be overcome. This crushing burden must be lifted in our collective thought. Great Bible characters, Moses and Paul, for instance, made remarkable changes in their lives to become the standard bearers of advancing spiritual thought. Moses killed an Egyptian as a young man, and Paul initially persecuted the Christians. They surely dealt with guilt over their past actions, yet God selected them as chosen vessels to carry forth His word to His people. With such examples of lives not only redeemed but illuminated with spiritual purpose, we too can recognize the change of heart in those who have made significant mistakes, and come to the realization of the Godliness they wish to express in their present experience. This is a challenging task to undertake, to see each person’s spiritual integrity, and remove our view of anyone as guilty and irredeemable. The Reading Room thanks you for exploring the redemption of guilt during this May. …

A balance is an instrument for weighing. We often refer to weighing the pros and cons of a decision to determine the best course of action. What we use to evaluate our options, to find the appropriate decision is crucial. When our balance is comprised of what is loving, honest, unselfish, and merciful, we are using an effective means of finding the best answer to any question we face. Let us all give thought to our criteria, our balance for weighing what is best to do moment by moment this month. The Reading Room looks forward to hearing your fruitage and discoveries.…

War and peace are opposing states. These contradictory ideas are continually in play in society’s search for stability and balance. We see this in the constant tension of those who serve in any form of community service that involves enforcing peace. Police officers are charged “to protect and serve,” but sometimes are forced to meet aggression with aggression. Soldiers face trauma and injury in their role to defend their country. These honorable people, dedicating their lives to face danger on behalf of others, deserve our full support. Psalm 91 provides a message of safety for the individual in a warlike situation. Join the Reading Room in prayer regarding the subject of war.…

An archaic definition of confusion is “to bring to ruin.” This apt description of confusion alerts us to its true motive – to hobble our experience and stop our progress. Confusion would rob us of our confidence, causing us to waver at crucial moments. Instead, anchor thought to the rock of Truth, and you will find the way clear to fulfill your God given purpose. Demonstrating our divinely bestowed right to clarity of thought and action is our privilege this month. The Reading Room thanks you for your prayerful attention to this topic.…

“…ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32) This profound statement touches every part of our lives. When we know what is true, lies cannot fool us. When we know our true wholeness, our health becomes more harmonious. When we know our genuine identity as God’s child, we find the fulfillment of the hymn’s promise, “..My path in life is free. My Father has my treasure, and He will walk with me.” (Hymn 148) We have the joyful opportunity to start 2024 knowing our true freedom.…

Repentance is the change we experience when we clearly see that our behavior or habits of thinking is limiting our life and sometimes is actually harmful. To clearly see sin for what it is can be a jarring experience, but from this realization comes the strength to move forward with purer convictions. Those touched by Christ Jesus’ healing and teaching surely felt a shift of thought as they turned from sin and turned toward the promise of spiritual satisfaction gained from right thinking and acting. We too, can experience this purifying process as we explore the meaning of repentance this month.…

The word authority simultaneously calls to mind responsibility. One cannot exercise authority irresponsibly, as it then ceases to be authority and is simply arbitrary power. When we turn to God in prayer, we can be certain that He responds to His child, providing protection and care. Gracious is the Lord, and righteous, yea our God is merciful, says the Psalmist. Ps. 119:5 As we become conscious of this principled, loving influence working on our behalf, we see our own lives reflecting this divine authority in our daily contacts. The opportunity to experience and exercise divine authority is our prayerful topic for us from the Reading Room.…

There is a traditional truism, “if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.” In hindsight, many victims of trickery recognize the tempting results offered to them if they would invest time and money in a questionable endeavor. Jesus’ admonition to his disciples comes to mind, “Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” (Matt. 10:16) We are to meet the world with the wisdom that discerns a lie, as well as the spiritual dominion that renders the lie ineffectual. The Reading Room has given us the topic of protecting ourselves and others from any fraudulent suggestion.…