Reading 262-130

TEXT OF READING 262-130

Text

Date: 7/30/1942 Sex: M ReadingID: 1510

This psychic reading given by Edgar Cayce at the office of the Association, Arctic Crescent, Virginia Beach, Va., this 30th day of July, 1942, in accordance with request by those present.

[Edgar Cayce; Gertrude Cayce, Conductor; Gladys Davis, Steno. Esther Wynne, Hannah Miller, Frances Y. Morrow, Florence Edmonds, Helen Ellington and Hugh Lynn Cayce.]

Time of Reading 11:25 to 11:45 A. M. Eastern War Time.

1. GC: You will have before you members of Group #1, present here, and their work on the lesson GOD - LOVE - MAN. You will give a further discourse on this lesson and suggestions in completing it.

2. EC: Yes, we have the group as gathered here; as a group, as individuals, and their work on the lesson GOD - LOVE - MAN.

3. In giving further discourse on the subject, much might be given. In the declaration that is made in the subject there should be the defining of what this group interprets as God, in their own experience.

4. It is true that God is love. Is it true that He is to each as a father? Is it true that He is to each as law? Is it true that we each know that influence, that law, that love, as a personal thing in our own experience; and thus a personal God, - not a personality but as a God that is known of self, that may be demonstrated in the life of the individual?

5. As may be interpreted by the individual from that which is the ACCEPTED word of God, given through those that were raised or edified by their close walk with Him, as individuals qualified by Him to give their interpretation of Him in man’s experience, - love is qualified as an attribute of that force, power or influence known as God.

6. Thus, as man makes application of love in his daily experience, he finds God a personal God, - whether indicated in relationship to that force He calls God, or worships as God, or whether in relationship with his fellow man.

7. These should be the questions, these should be the answers in the experience of the individuals as comprise this group, if they would give this as a complete study or lesson to others.

8. This has been begun well. Then complete same, in the outline as indicated.

9. And let the next lesson be: MAN’S RELATIONSHIP TO MAN.

10. And the affirmation:

11. FATHER, GOD! LET ME, AS THY CHILD, SEE IN MY FELLOW MAN THE DIVINITY I WOULD WORSHIP IN THEE.

12. LET ME IN MY DAILY LIFE BE A WITNESS TO HIM, WHO EXEMPLIFIED FOR MAN, TO MAN, MAN’S RELATIONSHIP TO GOD, AND THE MANNER OF RELATIONSHIP THAT SHOULD BE AS MAN TO MAN.

13. FOR WE ASK IT IN HIS NAME, JESUS THE CHRIST.

14. Ready for questions.

15. (Q) Any message to the group? (A) As ye have given unto others, so do thyself. Study to show THYSELF approved unto God, workmen not ashamed; rightly emphasizing the virtue, the faith, the love, the patience, in thy daily life and in thy dealings one with another; keeping self unspotted from condemnation; keeping self from condemning self or others. [See lesson MS under Reports of Reading 262-130.]

16. We are through for the present.

[GD’s note: With the publishing of the book THERE IS A RIVER, Edgar Cayce’s time was so filled with appointments that he was unable to give further readings for the Group. See Reports for work done by the Group subsequent to his death, etc.]

Reports

Reports & Follow-up

R1. 7/13/50 Rev. Joseph B. Clower, Minister of the First Presbyterian Church, Morganton, North Carolina, wrote to Norfolk Study Group #1:

Dear Friends:

Volume No. II of the devotional book, A SEARCH FOR GOD, reached me last week.

I appreciate very much your thoughtfulness in making this book available to ministers and especially to me. To most ministers it will be just another book, however helpful it may prove to be; but to me it came as a reminder of the many profitable and helpful associations with Edgar Cayce and his family and close associates.

Cordially yours, Joseph B. Clower, Jr. Minister

R2. A SEARCH FOR GOD BOOK III - Lesson II: [For Lesson I see RIGHTEOUSNESS VS SIN under Reports of Reading 262-129.]

I Introduction II God III Love, God is love (a) God’s love for man IV Man, God’s manifestation (a) Man’s love for God (b) Man’s love for man V The world’s great lesson VI The New Age VII Closing

AFFIRMATION

LET THAT LIGHT BE WITHIN ME IN SUCH MEASURES THAT I, AS A CHILD OF GOD, MAY REALIZE HIS LOVE FOR MAN. MAY I LIVE THAT, THEN, IN MY LIFE DAY BY DAY.

THIRD SERIES - LESSON TWO - GOD, LOVE, MAN

In this experience in the earth it is most important that we consider the purposes of God and our need of Him. Just why has God taken thought of us? Why is it necessary that we take thought of God? Why do we need God? We only have to look about us to know that it is time to understand “the mystery even the hidden wisdom of God.” (I Cor. 2:7) The natural man cannot understand the things of God because they must be spiritually discerned. Therefore, there is a greater need for meditation, for the manifestation of universal love in our dealings with our fellow man. The basic truth for each to learn is: In as much as I have done it unto the least of my brethren I have done it to my Maker.

GOD - God is Spirit, everywhere, permeating everything. God is Creative Energy, the maker of all that is in the universe. When man creates it is the God force within that is the thought, the plan, the execution. God is mind, force, life itself. He is the I AM. He is God, the Father, to those only who know him. “The Lord, thy God is one Lord.” (Deut. 6:4) In Him we live, move and have our being.

God is not a person but very personal to us as we manifest Him in our lives. To come to this realization activity is necessary, for the Lord our God is a living active God. He is then personal to us only as we become like Him in word, thought and act.

“Before I knew God the Father, He was only to me a God outside of my understanding. I sought to know Him and He revealed Himself to me. I came to realize that as I showed mercy, I manifested the attributes of the Father, and if I would know the Father better I must be a friend to others. When I counted my hardships as opportunities, my disapointments as stepping stones then I was learning the way of righteous living.”

God is spirit and has given to his children the power to spiritualize the physical body and thus become one with Him as they were in the beginning. He did this through love and it is through love that we can reach the estate to be one with him. Thus love is is the link between us and God or man and God.

GOD’S LOVE FOR MAN - The soul of man is a manifestation of God. In the beginning God made the souls to be His companions, endowed them with divine attributes and gave to them free will. They, still in spirit, chose self aggrandizement to the extent that they became entangled in matter. (Rev. 12:7) Then God in His mercy, in His love said: “Let there be light” and sent into the world the perfect man. He too, was encased in matter, but perfect; for God Himself over saw the making of Adam, who was the first begotten of the Father. Adam likewise fell. He, too, was of the earth, earthy. On and on the sons of God looked upon the daughters of man and lusted, until the first Adam learned through experiences what it meant to disobey. “Though He were a Son, yet learned He obedience by the things which He suffered.” (Heb. 5:8) Then He, the last Adam, became a quickening spirit. So we in like manner in order to become one with the Father even as He, the last Adam, must through suffering learn obedience. We too must raise the body in which we chose to become incased, a perfect spiritual body.

He has borne with us from the beginning. He has remembered that we are dust. He has sent the rain and the sunshine and caused the earth to bring forth. For this often we return no thanks, but carefreely accept His mercies and continue ruthlessly to rob our fellow man.

He sent His Son, that in His life and sacrifice we might get a physical manifestation of LIGHT through LOVE. That as He in His service to His fellow man might show to us God; and that we might also manifest divine attributes.

To understand our relationship to the Father we must be familiar with the attributes of His perfect manifestation, Jesus, the Christ. He chose the hard way of life. He loved His enemies. He bore temptations and endured persecution. He knew the laws of God yet never used them for His own glory. Thus He became the pattern for those who likewise would know the way. Are our activities based on such selflessness?

Jesus, the Christ, the perfect manifestation of God in the flesh, showed the world through service and unselfish love what God expected of His children if they would be one with Him. He made the sacrifice once and for all, that those who would be like Him might find the way easy through Him. We are in like manner to offer ourselves a living sacrifice for others. Therefore He is the way for those who would have life and have it more abundantly; and they who would have life must give life.

The Holy Spirit now manifesting in the world is the Christ’s promise fulfilled to the world. “I will pray the Father and He will give you another Comforter that will abide with you forever, even the Spirit of Truth.” (John 14:16) “The Comforter which is the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, He will teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance whatsoever I have said unto you.” (John 14:26) The Holy Spirit is God in action. His Spirit bearing witness with our spirit when He meets us in the Holy of Holies. His coming may be as a rushing mighty wind or as a gentle vibration, but to the soul who is seeking, He is recognized. There is no greater ecstasy that we can experience than that which comes with the realization that we are counted worthy of this heavenly visitor and the promise of His eternal presence abiding with us. Father, Son and Holy Spirit, these are one.

God knows our personal needs in the same manner as life is manifested in a grain of wheat. Until we become a god, a savior to some one else in purpose, in activity we do not take hold of that personality.

What a close union there is between God, the Father and His children. He has hidden nothing from them. They are warned of dangers, and comforted in sorrows. In Him all law is observed in loving obedience.

LOVE - Love is God and all unselfish love springs from Him, no matter where it is manifested. It is in all because the attributes of God are in His manifestations. It is not only a privilege, but a command, that we love one another, that we love our enemies. “He that does not love his enemies has not even begun to develop.” (P.R.)

Love is a fulfillment of the law. The admonition, “Love thy enemies” is another way of saying, fulfill the law through love. Hate, malice and enmity are breakers of the law. No state is safe with law breakers. No soul is safe that is surrounded with that force that is at enmity with God.

In the light and understanding of God, we as children of God may realize God’s love for man. It is too wonderful for man, as man, to comprehend, for he is blinded by greed, self indulgence and hate. He has gone into his house and shut the door to wisdom which only through love can open. We cannot serve two masters. It is either we serve God through service to others, or serve where self alone is benefitted.

It is therefore most important to go beyond weak human power and let in the light of the Holy Spirit that we as children of light may realize God’s love for man. It is written, “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither has entered into the heart of man the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.” (I Cor. 2:9)

Man through his experiences in this war-torn world is coming to realize the great need of God in his daily life. Both officers and men are expressing how they have felt the protective power of God while in action. An army officer acknowledged he was converted in a strange way. It came about while carrying out his duties as censor. Many of the letters written by the men to their parents and wives expressed great faith and showed their religion was a living thing.

God’s love has kept this world in place. We too have our part. There is much for us to do now in showing His love to our fellow man, and thus hasten the great day of brotherhood on earth. Then let us in sincerity pray:

Our Father which art in HEAVEN. Hallowed be Thy NAME. Thy kingdom come. Thy WILL be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily BREAD. And forgive us our DEBTS, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into TEMPTATION, but deliver us from EVIL. For Thine is the KINGDOM, and the POWER, and the GLORY, forever - Amen.

MAN - MAN’S LOVE FOR GOD - Man is the manifestation of God. The light that lights every man that comes into the world is exemplified in Jesus the Christ who is the perfect manifestation of God. This light that is within will bring up to the realization of God’s love for man. It is only when we live it that we have this light in its fullness. We become aware of it when we forget self and live the fruits of the spirit in praise, thanksgiving and service to others. Thus in humbleness we shed and share love with others in the Christ name.

“There came a time in my life when all my material possessions were swept away, even my means of support. I could not understand it; because I was trying to live a spiritual life. One day as I sat reading my Bible, these words came to me: ‘Seek ye first the kingdom of heaven and all things will be added unto you.’ From then I began to take stock of myself. Had I always sought the kingdom first? Had I let God come first? What is the kingdom anyway? I began to seek, supported with these words, ‘If with all your heart you seek me, ye shall find me.’

“I sought with all my heart. In the stillness of the night I would cry out for help. I awoke one night to pray and I felt a strong vibration sweep over me. It seemed to be everywhere. As the Presence lingered there came peace and joy. I realized the Presence of the Most High, and had an experience of what it means to have perfect peace. I learned that it is not a far off, but within our very being. It is only after all a state of consciousness. This brought me an understanding that has comforted and sustained me in many trials.”

THE WORLD’S GREATEST LESSON - The world needs to know God as its Father. This is the lesson it must now learn. How this is to be accomplished is up to the individual. Each of us must decide if he wants to learn this lesson or remain chained in materialism. If the latter, then God Himself cannot help him.

Many are seeking God. Some obedient to His commandment, “That ye love one another.” (John 15:12) Others still cling to self. It is the purpose that counts. Whether we choose the long way through hard experiences to come into the knowledge and fellowship is well for us if we will learn in no other way.

The world has over and over again chosen war to cleanse itself. War abolished slavery, minimized oppression, bigotry and greed. Each time through suffering it has come out, if not always a better world, certainly a wiser one. Many paid for it with their lives, but they came into the consciousness somewhere, somehow, of the futility of sin and error.

To be away from God is to be in darkness, ignorance and sin.

To seek the light of understanding is a lesson worth more than all the knowledge the world can give. It is wisdom indeed. It is the ability to use knowledge aright. It is life, peace and joy.

Is there any way to help the world to come into this realization? The Master said, let your Light so shine that others seeing your good works may be constrained to glorify your Father which is in heaven. (B.R.) Each of us knows what the light is that may shine within him. We know that it may be love in the face of hate, mercy when all about is persecution, liberality when men everywhere are obsessed with greed, and in the face of all turmoil and trail be at peace.

The God of peace will keep us and cause our efforts to be crowned with success. Our light cannot be put out if we seek to know His Face.

THE NEW AGE - “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.” (I Cor. 2:9)

The new age is as near or as distant as we make it. But will surely come. We must prepare ourselves to meet the Redeemer as a bride prepares herself to meet her husband, by being pure, lovely, lovable, selfless, self-sacrificing. We cannot enjoy the perfect unless we ourselves are perfect. Is the new age physical or spiritual? Both. We have first to spiritualize the physical before we can take it with us into spiritual realms. That is what Christ did. He is still the Way.

The new age will be no experiment, but a reality, a truth. “In that day I will make a covenant for them with the beast of the field and with the fowls of heaven and with the creeping things of the ground, and I will break the bow and the sword and the battle out of the earth, and will make them to lie down safely.” (Hosea 2:18)

The great will be at peace with the humble. The weak ones in Christ will be strong. It is now dawn for those who will make for themselves ready for the new age. “And he said unto me seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book; for the time is at hand. He that is unjust, let him be unjust still; he that is filthy, let him by filthy still; he that is righteous, let him be righteous still; and he that is holy, let him be holy still.

Behold I come quickly, my reward is with me to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.

Blessed are they that do His commandments that they may have the right to the tree of life and may enter through the gates into the city - The Spirit and the bride say come, and let him that heareth say come, and let him that is a thirst come, and whosoever will let him take the water of life freely - Surely I come quickly.” (Rev. 22:17)

CONCLUSION - Finally let us be of one mind, for mind is ever the builder. Our mind uses its spiritual ideals to build upon, or material desires as destructive channels. It is the interference of material desires that prevents our mind from keeping in perfect accord with our Ideal.

We often may use physical emergencies or physical conditions as excuses, or as justifications for choosing to do this or that. Ought these things to be so, according to our Ideal? It is therefore most important for us to know what is our spiritual Ideal. Who and what is our pattern?

Throughout the experiences of man in the material world, at various seasons and periods, teachers or “would be” teachers have come setting up certain forms or certain theories as to manners in which an individual should control the appetites of the body or of the mind, so as to attain to some particular phase of development.

There has also come a teacher who was bold enough to declare Himself to be the Son of the living God. He set no rules of appetite. He set no rules of ethics, other than “As ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them,” and to know “Inasmuch as ye do it unto the least of these, thy brethren, ye do it unto thy Maker.” He declared that the kingdom of heaven is within each individual’s consciousness, and to be attained, to be aware of - through meditating upon the fact that God is the Father of every soul.

Jesus, the Christ, was this teacher. In Him, and in the following of His examples in the earth, is LIFE - He came to demonstrate, to manifest, to give life and light to all. Here, then we find a friend, a brother, a companion. As He gave, “I call ye not servants, but brethren.” To as many as believe, to them He gives power to become the children of God, the Father, joint heirs with Him, in the knowledge and in the awareness of this Presence abiding with those who set this Ideal before them. WHAT, THEN, IS THIS AS AN IDEAL?

As concerning our fellow man, He gave, as you would that others do to you, do you even so to them, take no thought, worry not, be not over anxious about the body, for your Father knows what you have need of. In the place we are, in the consciousness in which we find ourself, is that which is TODAY, NOW, needed for our greater, better, more wonderful unfoldment. Today HEAR His voice, “Come unto me, all that are weak or that are heavy laden, and I will give you rest from worries, peace from anxieties. For the Lord loveth those who put their trust WHOLLY in Him. (P.R.)

This, then, is that attitude of mind that puts away hates, malice, anxiety, jealousy. It creates in their stead, in that mind is the builder, the fruits of the spirit, - love, patience, mercy, longsuffering, kindness, gentleness. And against these there is no law. They break down barriers, they bring peace and harmony. There is no longer a desire to find fault because someone “forgot” someone’s judgement was bad, someone was selfish today. These we can overlook, for so did He. In His own experience with those that he had chosen out of the world, if He had held disappointment in their leaving Him to the mercies of an indignant high priest, a determined lawyer and an unjust steward, what would have been our hope, our promise, today?

He, with the ability to destroy, thought not of such but rather gave Himself, that the Creative Forces, God, might be reconciled to that pronouncement, that judgement, and thus mercy, through the shedding of blood, came into man’s experience.

Let us keep our hearts, minds and purposes attuned to that voice within; knowing that our body is indeed the temple of the living God. There is our altar. There He has promised to meet us. Be mindful of the service, of the assurance, of the manner of offering we make there to Him. “As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he.” (Prov. 23:17)

Let us study then to show ourselves approved unto God, in Jesus the Christ; rightly stressing each phase of our life; not to that only of spirit, nor of mind, nor of matter but each consistent with the other, that we present our body holy and acceptable as a gift unto Him, who hath NEED of love, even as we have need of love.

R3. MAN’S RELATIONSHIP TO MAN - LESSON III (Third Series)

OUTLINES

I Introduction II The Brotherhood of Man III Our Daily Life a Witness (a) Of our relationship to Man (b) Of our relationship to God IV The Growth of Man’s Relationship to Man V In His Name (or The Power of Christ) VI Conclusion

INTRODUCTION - In the beginning it pleased God to make souls to be his companions. These made of the Breath of God possessed divine attributes, so, in the beginning all power was given in heaven and in earth to the sons of God.

We, among the souls of this creation misused our divine heritage and sought self satisfaction through manifestation in the physical world. This brought a warring between our physical and spiritual natures, and there was spiritual darkness.

God did not, however, forget his creation, but prepared a way back through One who was tempted in all ways like unto man, yet, whose soul never failed in the purpose for which He came into Eden.

For what purpose did He come? For self? No, that purpose had already failed. He came to show man’s relationship to man and to God. He, Himself, exemplified man’s true relation with man when He, for man, overcame the world and was of love able to declare that when we follow in His spirit, it is the way out of darkness into light.

THE BROTHERHOOD OF MAN - He - “hath made of one blood all nations of men.” The sooner we learn this the better it will be for us. We have taken our own time to accept this truth and apparently do not now feel too keenly the necessity for applying it in our dealings with our fellow man. Intolerance today, as in the middle ages, is blocking the influence and progress as Christian nations. “There is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcised, nor uncircumcised, Scythian, bond nor free, but Christ is all, and in all.” Why can’t we learn this? Is it because we have been brought up to believe that in the sight of God one people is more highly favored than another? Without an understanding of a kind heavenly Father, it might so appear. God has always blessed those who could be used as a blessing to mankind, although they at times may not have known that they were being used. An example is the Jewish people. While they in many instances have rebelled and made selfish application of their opportunities, the world, through them, has received great Light.

God has never made a people or an individual more learned or superior in nationality for the glory of themselves; rather he has given to them an opportunity to show more of His love, His mercy, and His truth to their fellow man, and in so doing exemplify that he the brotherhood of man and the Fatherhood of God are one.

“Though He had the power within Him to come down from the cross, though he had the power to heal, He had the power to prevent His own death for it had no claim upon Him, yet quickened by the Father, His life lived among men, His dealing among men brought to man hope, patience, love, long-suffering. This, then, brings the law of God made manifest. He became the law by manifesting the same before man, and thus as man, even as you, becomes one with the Father.

For until you become in purpose, in activity, a savior, yea, a god unto thy fellow man ye do not take hold upon God (as a Father), that is life, that is the being of life.” [1158-11, Par. 12-A]

OUR DAILY LIFE A WITNESS (a) Of our relationship to Man (b) Of our relationship to God

As we apply the truth that we know, we grow toward the whole Truth. The seed of truth sprouts, grows, and becomes a plant, and the plant is nurtured an cultivated day by day as we put our ideals into practice in our dealings with our fellow man.

It takes much self analysis and prayer to always see the divine in others. In this we become more like - “Him, who exemplified for man, man’s relationship to God and the manner of relationship that should be as man to man.” [262-130]

Many difficult problems will arise as we try to apply the truth, so it is necessary for God to train those whom He would call into service. We should realize that obstacles then are only stepping stones. When we do not put into practice that which we know, the result is unhappiness and turmoil. So often we have to call ourselves to attention and demand self to see the divine in others, to see in them that which we see in that we worship. Each day is a test, but we will not get discouraged as we seek to attain our ideal unless we forget our purpose and begin to entertain selfish IDEAS.

“Take no thought, worry not, be not overanxious about the body, for He knoweth what you have need of. In the place where thou art, in the consciousness in which you find yourself, in that which is today, now, needed for thy greater, thy better, thy more wonderful unfoldment. Today hear His voice. He lovest those who put their trust wholly in Him. This is the attitude of mind that puts away hate, malice, anxiety, jealousy, and creates in its stead - the fruits of the Spirit, love, patience, mercy, longsuffering. These break down the barriers and bring peace and harmony.” [357-13]

As concerning our fellow man, He gave, “As ye would that men would do unto you, do ye even so unto them.” This builds a spirit within us to overlook the faults of others. We see less cause to complain of others as we become ourselves more perfect.

“In His experience with those whom He had chosen out of the world, if He had held disappointment in their leaving Him to the mercies of an indignant high priest, a determined lawyer, an unjust steward, what would have been thy hope, they promise today?” [357-13]

Again, “Oh that men would learn the lesson that good - God - needs never be attempted to be justified, but glorified in the experience of every soul. Individuals need never to attempt to justify themselves for their hope, their desires, if they know the author of that they desire, and know whether it is for self, self indulgence, self aggrandizement, or for the glory of God.” [2775-1]

Let us seek to become aware of God and our near relationship with Him. Be aware of the blessing, the opportunities that He has put in our way. Opportunities are expressions that God is mindful of us. We are wise if we embrace them, not for self glory, but for the glory of our Maker. “The first awareness of which each soul should become cognizant is that God is conscious of it.” [2650-1]

If we would become aware of this how much difference there would be in the choices made day by day. How mindful is He of us? He has not willed that any soul should perish. (II Peter 3:9)

As we get apart and wait on the Lord more and more we establish this close relationship. The relationship of Father and son is very near when the son is worthy of the love of an all-wise Father. Nothing is impossible for that son, and no good thing will be withheld from him. In fact it yet remains to be seen what one can accomplish who will give himself wholly over to the will of the Father.

Before we question the acts of our brother, let us first seek the motive that prompted the act. It would make us more fit to sit in judgement, if we dared to do so. Do we know the cause that prompted a crime, or even the cause for the thought that preceded it? Do we know the cause for the flower to bloom or the grass to be green? Since we of ourselves know so little how can we judge the activities of another?

The power of discernment is ours to have, but it must be righteous judgement, that which comes as the fruits of the spirit, through the awakening of the soul forces. Then there will be no criticism of another, for in Him we will so clearly see our own weakness that our judgement is transformed to love, patience and humility.

1256-1 - 8/26/36: In the spiritual forces and study, know that to know the world without one must first know the world within. For of the earth is the physical man made, but of the UNIVERSE is the mind and soul infinite. Thus the study of self becomes the first and foremost in the experience of him that would be a good neighbor, a good father, a good friend. And in him that would be the greater in ANY experience or capacity is the ability to serve those that are

• as self - the image of the Maker. For as ye do it unto the least of thy brethren ye do it unto thy God.

Then, to be to thy neighbor that as ye would have thy Father, thy Brother, thy God be to thee, is indeed being a channel through which the glories of that ye may worship as thy ideal may act in such a manner as to make the leaven - as He gave - that leaveneth the whole lump.

Know thyself if ye would know thy God, if ye would be of a service to thy brother.

THE GROWTH OF MAN’S RELATIONSHIP TO MAN - [Based on [3976] series]

“And the Lord said unto Cain, ‘Where is thy brother’? and he (Cain) said ‘I know not, Am I my brother’s keeper?’ And God said, ‘The voice of thy brother’s blood crieth to me from the ground.’” (Gen. 4:9-10)

For many thousands of years groups, nations, individuals have asked the same question, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” And how often it has been answered in the same spirit of Cain. The weak have been oppressed, the poor down-trodden, the widows and orphans neglected, nations have warred against nations, man has been made to fight for principles in which he did not believe. All because this question has not been answered in God’s way.

Yet, with all the selfishness and sin, the Light of the Prince of Peace shines more and more into the world, humane societies and hospitals, orphanages, and government relief are growing in number and popularity every day. It is a long call from Cain to the organization of the United Nations. Not that mankind is free from selfishness, but a development is slowly but surely at work.

The admonition of the Master, “Love your enemies, love them who despitefully use you and persecute you” is being manifested every day by those called of the Lord, those who should have the spirit of the Christ. Regardless of the scoffers, more love, more kindness, more patience, more sympathy are being manifested today than ever before in the world’s history. Not that perfection has been attained, nor even a full awakenment, but many are on the way to the realization of the Perfect Day.

We have those interpretations that have been made by various individuals throughout time, as to what would or does constitute world peace.

In the study of the history of various groups, in their varied activities through the earth, these in the most part have sought that which would satisfy or gratify the ideas and ideals of the few, - or those that were set in power from various sources, or by circumstance as had arisen in the affairs of men in varied portions of the earth.

Today we find a world at war. There is no individual but what is and will be affected by the outcome of the conflicting emotions that are prompting the activities in all the sphere’s of man’s experience in the earth.

Then, through whom, from whence may man gather an idea, an ideal to which he - as an individual or as a group, or as a nation - may adhere with impunity; to which purpose, to which ideal, to which surety he may put his faith, his confidence?

As has been indicated, it is not in individuals or in personalities. For, these have failed - and are in the present causing those conflicts which have set the world on fire; causing death, destruction. And fear has crept into the heart even of the elect.

Unless these days be shortened, - as has been given, - the very elect may be shaken, may tremble at the destruction, the littleness to which human life is held in the ideas of groups or nations, or those purposes that have been set.

Then, there must be the looking to HIM who has overcome the world; who hath known death, who hath known wars, who hath known trials, who hath known tribulations ;who hath met man on his OWN consciousness of physical, mental and spiritual emotions; Him who hath given, “I come not to bring peace alone but a sword - to those who have forsaken the way of life”; Him - who came that man might have life more abundantly; He who, though capable of defying man, said in the hour of trail, “My hour is come - the prince of this world cometh, but he hath no part in me - My peace I give unto you; not as the world knoweth peace, but my peace.”

Then, we find, peace in the world must begin first within the heart and purpose and mind of the individual, prompted by that something which answers within, - even as has been given, “My spirit beareth witness with thy spirit, as to whether ye be the children of God or not.”

As man looks upon the world today, there comes that understanding, that manner in which choice and judgments may be drawn; even as He gave to that one who had announced by the authority of the prophets, “Behold the lamb of God, that taketh away the sins of the world,” who comes to bring peace into the hearts of those who seek to do righteousness in the earth. And yet because they had fallen into that answering as of self to fears within, he began to doubt - as apparently no measure was being attempted, outwardly at least, to relieve him of his bonds; and he asked, “Art thou he that was to come, or shall we look for another?” The Master’s answer is the judgment of today, even as then. There was not the Yes or the No answer, but “Go tell John that the sick are healed, the poor have the gospel preached, the lame walk, the blind see.”

Not merely the physically lame, not merely the physically blind, not merely the physically sick, - but it was that which answered to the whole purpose of man’s experience in the earth, which was completed in Him; that makes it possible for as many as believe to become the children of the living God.

Then, thinkest thou that ye can treat thy neighbor, thy brother, with aught but the spirit of truth, the fruits of the spirit that He gave, and find other than that ye measure out? For, with what measure ye mete it is measured to thee again. As ye do it unto least ye do it unto thy Maker.

Whose spirit, what manner of peace, then, seek ye as individuals? That ye may gratify the appetites of thy body? That ye may satisfy the lust of the eye? That ye may know fame or fortune? These fade, these pass away.

Only that which enables the individual also to bear the cross, even as He, will enable that individual to know that peace which encompassed Him in such a measure that He broke the bonds of death, overcame hell and the grave, and rose in a newness of life; that ye - here - and now - might know that peace in these troubled periods.

What CAN you do, then, as individuals, that this plague of war, this injustice to man be taken away, - this plague of death and fear of destruction?

YE MAY STAND - EVEN AS HE - BETWEEN THE LIVING AND THE DEAD!

Let those that die have that purpose even as He, “It shall NOT BE IN VAIN!”

Let those that live LIVE unto God; magnifying, spreading the fruits of brotherly love, kindness, patience; that this plague of war may be stayed.

Ye cannot pray “Peace - Peace” when there is no peace in thine own heart and soul! But by knowing (for His spirit answers with thy spirit) that each day, each person ye meet is GLAD that you are alive! GLAD that YOU have come in touch with them; for you have brought - and bring - hope to their lives, just in the passing!

This means, then, that you may so live the life as He emulated in the earth, that ye radiate life, joy, peace! that which casteth out fear, - by living, by being, by doing unto others, for others, that ye would like others to do unto you.

O, ye say, this is not new! Neither is thy present disturbance, nor thy present hope, nor ANYTHING! For, even as he said, “There is nothing new under the sun.” What is has been, and will be again. Only as ye USE that birthright, that purpose, that WILL within thine own consciousness to do justice, to do right, to LOVE good, to eschew evil, may ye as individuals, as a group, as a nation, stand between the living and the dead - and STAY the sin that maketh man make war - of any nature - against his brother.

Thou ART thy brother’s keeper! Act that in thine own heart. Who IS thy brother? “Who is my mother? They that do the will of the Father, the same is my mother, my sister, my brother.”

If ye do the things of the Devil, are ye not his? If ye do he things of the Lord (He is God), are ye not His?

Then study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman not ashamed, rightly dividing the words of truth, keeping SELF unspotted from the world.

In this ye may build, here a little, there a little, line upon line, precept upon precept.

Fear and doubt cast away, trusting in the Lord. He alone can save.

Study to show thyself approved unto God. KNOW, as has so oft been indicated, oft what may be good for one may be questionable for another. But know that the Lord knoweth His own and calleth them by name.

Then let each one, as a son, as a daughter of the living God, feed HIS LAMBS, feed HIS SHEEP.

With what? The spirit of truth, the spirit of peace! APPLY that NEW commandment as He gave, “Love one another.”

In all groups, all organizations, it is not what this or that name or group may do, but as ONE. For, the Lord thy God is ONE! And the Christ, the Savior, died for all - NOT for one! No sect, no schism, no ism, no cult. For, the first to meet the Lord in peace was he that was also crucified. That should, in each heart, make those who have named the Name, and who claim God as the Father, Jesus Christ as the elder brother, know that no sacrifice is too great in order that the glory, the honor of the Lord may be demonstrated, manifested among men.

What is the test? The spirit, the fruits of the spirit, - that brings hope, kindness, longsuffering, patience into the experience; not merely the offering of self as one who would make of self a martyr, no. For, remember, the Lord COULD, the Lord might have kept away from the Cross. But for thy sake He bore the shame, though without sin. Remember ye what the thief said? “Rail not, for we but meet our own sin (or self), and He is without sin.”

Then, make not of thyself a martyr, but as one that stands between the living and the dead, to glorify the Lord!

All is answered in that question asked, “Art thou the Christ, or must we look for another?” What was the answer? Not “Yes, I am he that ye announced some three and a half years ago at Jordan,” - no. “Tell him the sick are healed, the blind see…” This is the answer for meeting EVERY problem, every question as to the economic condition of the nations. For He gave, “Let him that hath two coats give one to another. Let him that is forced to do this or that go the whole length. These are the basic principles upon which world order, world economic and social relations may be established, manifested among men.

For, while all have fallen short of the glory as manifested in Him, know that God - even as the Christ on the day of His crucifixion - is not a respector of persons, nor of their employment. For, what good thing did the thief on the cross but to warn his brother thief, “We are meeting our just dues”? recognizing his shortcomings, - hoping, - doing something ABOUT same!

Let ye as individuals, as a group, do something ABOUT the problems. Not as to direct, not as to sit in high places; for no individual is in ANY place or position save by the grace of God.

Who then CAN stand before the Lord? Only those who have the pure heart, the pure purpose. To them there is peace, even in the midst of strife, even in the midst of bloodshed.

Racial hatreds is answered only in that the Lord is not a respector of persons. “He that doeth the will of the Father, the same is my brother, my sister, my mother.” Those, to man, represented the closest relationship, - blood of his own blood, materially.

Then, mentally, spiritually DO SOMETHING ABOUT those of the races that are misunderstood, or who have been neglected here or there!

Nationalism should be the feeling for the own self, but not unto the detriment of others. For, though He were the Son, He took upon Himself the form of man, became as naught, subject to all the trials, all the sorrows of thine own self.

Then, what right has any man to set state or nation above that principle of brotherly love?

But always “Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and unto God the things that are God’s.”

Religious differences are the swords brought into man’s material understanding. And more wars, more bloodshed have been shed over the racial and religious differences than over any other problem! These, too, must go the way of all others; and man must learn - if he will know the peace as promised by Him - that God loveth those who love Him, whether they be called of this or that sect or schism or ism or cult! The Lord is ONE! [[3976] series]

The Prayer is, “Let me as Thy child see in my fellow man the divinity I would worship in Thee.” [262-130]

We are children of the promise if we do not allow selfishness, unkindness, evil thoughts and those little worries of the day to separate us.

What you sow, you reap. This is an unchangeable law. By living and acting this in our lives in relationship to others the law may be turned into a law of grace and mercy.

Children of the Promise must always look for the God-like qualities of the Christ in our fellow man. As we learn to do this, more and more the flaws in our brother will fade away, and we will behold only that which is Good.

[GD’s note: Most of the work on this lesson was done by the Group following Edgar Cayce’s death. The names of Eula Allen and Ruth Denney were drawn by lot to substitute for Edgar Cayce and Gertrude Cayce, so that the number of members would still be twelve. Esther Wynne stimulated the Group to meditate and submit names for the fourth lesson. Many titles were submitted and the one drawn from the basket for the fourth lesson was: THIS DAY CHOOSE THOU. See 262-130, Par. R4, below.]

R4. THIS DAY CHOOSE THOU - Outline

I Introduction II The Wisdom of Choice Shows Growth Physical, mental, spiritual III Choice is Determined Through Exercise of Will IV Life is Determined Through the Elements of Choice a. Selfishness (personal glory), possessions b. Self-aggrandizement (power) c. Self-promotion (gain in wealth, advancement, etc.)

or:

a. Selflessness b. Humility c. Love

V Now is the Acceptable Time

1. Procrastination builds karma
2. The worlds needs, now men who are unafraid
3. The field is ready

VI By Their Fruits Ye Shall Know Them

1. temptation or test, succumbs to
2. Baal or God, The ideal
3. Works, good

VII Conclusion On what has our nation been built? On what does our individual destiny depend? Joshua’s promises and prophesies On what must the world still depend? (a) Promises of blessings, (b) prophecies of destruction?

[GD’s note: After Edgar Cayce died, Esther Wynne wanted the the Group #1 to continue forming lessons to make up SFG Book III. We meditated and submitted titles and drew out of the the hat THIS DAY CHOOSES THOU, which happened to be title submitted by Hugh Lynn. Eventually the group “gave up” attempting to “do” Book III.]

I INTRODUCTION - As perhaps never before in history man is being called to “stand forth and be counted”, on the side of creativity or destruction. The average person does not always realize that choices made daily, almost moment by moment, are part of this ever present responsibility to “choose you this day whom you will serve.” (Josh. 24:15)

The thought which places another individual before self, the small denial of some physical desire which unfits a person for better service, the magnification of a good quality seen in another person, all of these are little choices but very important in relating self to the positive rather than the negative side of life in the earth.

It is the will, a divine heritage, which must be exercised daily. The pattern of the mind may be destructive. The will must oppose this pattern and hold to ideals and purposes. For example, in times of war men are trained for fighting. Fear and hate are magnified until it becomes natural to think and speak and act destructively towards one’s fellow men. Only the will can turn a life from such a path. Even when the time of war has passed, men will continue to enjoy excitement of argument, contention, fear and hate in the daily patterns of their lives. Only careful self observation and thoughtful weighing of positive and negative function in even the smallest decisions will bring balance.

Only through recognizing himself as a co-creator with God can man begin to sense the importance of his choice.

“THIS DAY CHOOSE THOU”

II CHOICE SHOWS GROWTH - Physical, mental spiritual - We learn through the choices that we make when they are selfish or for the purpose of self-glory they lead us into many bypaths of frustration which bring to our consciousness doubts and turmoil. How great a price we pay! When our choices are selfless, with no ulterior motive other than to bring a blessing to others, how far-reaching is our spiritual growth!

1575-1: “There is constantly before us, day by day, good and evil, life and death. And the choice is to be made by self. Good and life represent creative forces, evil and death represent selfish motives, selfish desires, a lack of incentive for creative influences.”

529-1: “If the basis of mental reaction to any soul or body is founded in those things that have their inception and are grounded in other than spiritual things, that builded in the physical experience must become contention, strife, worriment, and those things that make many souls afraid. But if those forces and influences are to be used rather as a development for the soul, the birthright of every individual into those forces that make and build that which will bring - FROM the fruits of the spirit - those experiences in the lives of such souls that are hopeful, helpful, THEN there will come peace and harmony.

“Do not just sit still and wait! Do something about self and self’s abilities to make for greater mental and physical reactions, about those things that are to be met in the experience - at this time!”

“Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only” was not given of old as a trite saying, but then, as now, it is an expression showing the result of choice. Activity is found only in a purposeful life, either for good or the opposite.

As what we think we become, just so that which we choose to be we express through our activities. We cannot hide behind, “I didn’t know”, for knowledge of all things is deeply seated in the subconscious of all and only needs the proper stimulus to arouse it to activity.

As we speak we tell the world what we have thought for ages. Therefore, until we would choose wisely, let our “yeas be yeas, and our nays be nays.” In little words are hidden thoughts that could wreck an empire, or when rightly used save one from destruction, even souls made in the image of God.

Our choice shows growth, mentally, physically, spiritually.

“The law of One was manifested in the man Jesus and is signified in the Christ Consciousness. (Get the difference.)” [1010-12]

“This day I have set before you good and evil. Choose thou whom thy people, thy mind, thy body will serve. Present thy body a living sacrifice which is a reasonable service. (Josh. 24:15; Rom. 12:1)

“Be not broken on the wheel of strife nor yet be thou over anxious, for these are but the wayside of those who would be led astray. Keep the counsel of Him who gave, ‘Come unto me, and I will make thy burden light, for my yoke is easy - but learn of me.’” [Paraphrase of Mat. 11:28—30] [254-35, Par. 23-A]

III CHOICE IS DETERMINED THROUGH THE EXERCISE OF WILL - “Choose thou. For, as has ever been there is no influence that may supersede the WILL of man; for such are the gifts unto the sons of man that they may make their souls such as to be the companionship with the All-Wise, All-Creative Forces, or separate from them. For, there is no impelling force other than that, ‘If ye will be my people, I will be your God.’ [440-16] It is always thus. And when faults arise, and when temptations come, these are from contemplating or on visioning from those things that would satisfy some activity in the carnal force of an individual.

“Material conditions may be changed by man, for man is a portion of his Creator, and may create for self that of good or evil. Choose, then, this day, whom thou wilt serve, even as was said of old - but let thy choice be even as He who led many - which was: ‘Others may do as they may, but for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.!’” [417-1]

Then choose whom ye will serve. It is not all that the Ideal should be our choice, as it is living and putting into practice the attributes of the Ideal. If the Ideal is love, then love should be manifested in our activities. If the Ideal is patience, then we should choose to be patient with others and in so doing, others may see the Ideal in us. That is what Jesus meant when He said, “he that has seen me has seen my Father also.”

There is no love without sacrifices. Neither is there any choice of a spiritual Ideal unless self is lost in Him.

If our will is one with God the Father, then there is harmony with all mankind, but if our will is governed by selfish desires, we are in a condition that wars against others, and seeks to gratify only self.

IV LIFE IS DETERMINED THROUGH THE ELEMENTS OF CHOICE - A. - a. Selfishness (personal glory), advancement b. Self-aggrandizement (power) c. Self-promotion (gain in wealth, etc.)

or:

B. - a. Selflessness b. Humility c. Love

“Knowledge and understanding are good to possess, but to use these in a manner in which self - the ego - is to be exalted, makes for confusion to those who would seek to know their place in using opportunities that are given them. And they too, who trust in themselves alone are not wise. If these are to be used for self-aggrandizement, self-indulgences, then they become rather as He gave of old: “Ye shall come and say, Did we not in thy name heal the sick? Did we not in thy name cast out demons? And He will say, ‘Depart from me, I never knew you!’ WHY? WHY? Because the desire, the purpose is that SELF MAY BE EXALTED. Rather than the humbleness of the heart before Him. For he that would be the greatest must be the servant of all. THESE be those things that ye must choose within thine own experience. For there is ever, as given of old, set before thee each day good and evil, life and death - choose thou!” [1599-1]

“In the spiritual forces and study, know that to know the world without, one must first know the world within. For of the earth is the physical man made, but of the UNIVERSE is the infinite mind and soul. Thus the study of self becomes the first and foremost in the experience of him that would be a good neighbor, a good father, a good friend. And in Him that would be the greater in ANY experience or capacity is the ability to serve those that are - as self - in the image of the Maker. For as ye do it unto the least of thy brethren, ye do it unto thy God.

“Then, to be to thy neighbor that as ye would have thy Father, thy Brother, Thy God be to thee, is indeed being a channel through which the glories of that ye may worship as thy ideal may act in such a manner as to make the leaven

• as He gave - that leaveneth the whole lump.

“Know thyself if ye would know thy God, if ye would be of a service to thy brother.” [1256]

V NOW IS THE ACCEPTABLE TIME

1. Procrastination builds karma
2. The world needs men who are unafraid
3. The field is ready

“He that would be patient with this soul, he that would cover a multitude of sins, find in the awakening of that within each entity that which may give that (the) glory (and the) power to the Father. For in Him is life, the life that perpetuates good through its shedding abroad; remembering ever that just being kind to the unfortunate, to those who do not understand, is shedding abroad His love, rather than proclaiming mighty words that become bombastic to many, rather that proclaiming those glories that can only be reflections, let thy yeas be yea and thy kindnesses (be) in His name.” [543-11]

Each moment of our lives is the accepted time. We cannot wait, for in the waiting we weaken our will and lose, perhaps, vital opportunities. There was no procrastination in the decisions of our Master in the wilderness, when He hungered and chose rather the bread of life, or when he had temptation for the moment, in which the powers of the world lay at His feet, and He chose rather to lift it up, even if it took the cross. He knew that all within Him was God’s power, and thus acknowledged “Of myself I can do nothing, but with My Father I can do all things.”

We are needing now as always men who are unafraid: Socrates who will drink the hemlock for truth’s sake; Cranmers and Riddles who would choose the flames of torture, rather than betrayal, this new found truth for what will we stand? What is our purpose, aim and Ideal in these trying times?

Are we afraid? Then know that somewhere along the way we have sinned. If we would walk in the Light, then “fear not”.

The Field is Ready. Never before have we had a greater opportunity to uphold righteous judgement - never were there so many in high places ready to help or be helped. Is it we, who falter, or is it the “powers that be” that is holding us back? Are we afraid for self that we do not rush to the cause for righteousness in more service, more prayer, more meditation, more healing, and more thanksgiving?

VI. BY THEIR FRUITS YE SHALL KNOW THEM

1. Temptation or test
2. Baal or God

To be one with Christ is the manner of relationship all men must ultimately set as an ideal. The tools used for the attainment are study, prayer, meditation and application.

These are the mediums through which we become aware of the Christ force that lies deep within each of us. In meditation the transition is made from the physical to the spiritual. So that we may be able under His guidance to move out of the desires of the flesh in to a perfect oneness with the Whole.

“As the activities of an entity involve spirit, mind and matter, these leave upon the skein of time and space the records of the individual activities.

“As there are many experiences in the material plane which would leave varied effect if choices were made differently under the opportunities for constructive influence. Therefore is an ideal life for each in every experience.

“What is that which makes this possible?

There is the way through the divine influences for every soul to manifest constructively. That is the ideal that should be the promptings for the activity of each entity.

“Where self acts without thought as to what is the motive or purpose, it makes for those experiences that become indulgences. But there is that promise which has ever been to man since in spirit, he pushed his individuality into matter and began to express or manifest PERSONAL influence…for self, for ease, for comforts, for those things that would enable the individual entity to in matter lord over others.

“Hence there becomes the more necessity for each in the present to hold fast to hold that which is good. Not good alone in the sense of laudation. Rather good in the sense of being creative in the mental and physical experience of individuals.

“For only that which is continuous in its creative influences…as Life itself…is everlasting. For that which is WAS and ever will be. Only the mortal or material, or matter, changes; but the expressions of same prompted by the Spirit of Truth live on.

“Then if one seeks as much into how Spirit works in and thru the emotions of the fellow man (not spirits, but the Spirit of Truth), this will not only bring into the experience peace, hope and understanding, but will make a growth beyond that as may be even reckoned - in words. For these as they become growing experiences exceed the abilities to be manifested in even word language. [1448-1]

“Then to make that for which each entity has entered into materiality again and again, as a soul, AWAKE to the abilities and possibilities of the individual seeking to manifest the glory of the Creative Forces, becomes in our ministry to our fellow man the channel through which the growth may come. Thus in that last understanding there will come the deeper conviction that He who has promised to meet us in the temple of our own body, as in the holy of holies within self where the awareness of the heavenly forces may be made manifest, may say, ‘Thou hast chosen well and thou may enter into the joys of thy Lord, as prepared for those that love His ways.’

“Let us hold fast to that we have purposed in our hearts to do - TO KNOW OUR MAKER AND OUR RELATIONSHIPS WITH HIM; as may be manifested in our reckoning and our dealings with our fellow man. For ‘Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me,’ saith the Lord of Hosts to each of us. In making manifest, then, let us hold to that which we have seen in our inner selves; for it is good; - and each entity is the sum total of that in its development which it has manifested as Creative Forces - or Divine Love - in its dealings with its fellow man.” [1448-2]

“Do not confuse, then, mental experiences that are innate and those that come through spiritual awareness or awakening within self with those that are of an earthly urge by having

• in the mental body, with the environs of a physical surrounding - experienced urges that may confuse; yet know all have their place in the experience of an entity, and individual, in the application of its abilities. Learn and practice, then, the first things first; as this: The entity, the soul, is supreme in itself as related to any circumstance or influence, whether an environmental, hereditary or a passing condition, through the will - that is the gift of the Creator. And if the entity in its seeking applies that which is shown within self it may never confuse self as to the correct, positive, direct manner in which to apply the impulse that motivates an activity towards the application of that gained within self. For it is not in knowledge alone but rather in the application of such understanding that the mental body, the soul body, grows. Hence, as has been given to all: Study to show thyself - thyself - approved unto thy Maker, divining the words of truth.

“So, in the application of that thou knowest does there come the knowledge, the understanding of what, of where, of how, the next step, the next activity, is to be taken.” [683-1]

VII CONCLUSION

On what has our nation been built? On what does our destiny depend? Joshua’s promises and prophecies On what must the world still depend? Promises of blessings, or promises of destruction?

In our government may we choose to support the principles that set forth our ideal rather that a party platform. The purposes of man, rather than his popularity. Choose to protect the oppressed, and not those in power. Always be led by the Spirit of Truth, and not selfish desires. In so doing we may help preserve the freedom of all men.

The reasoning of the wordly way may be convincing, but may we make our decisions through the counseling of the still small voice within. “They who are led by the Spirit, they are the sons of God.”

Spirituality and unselfish activity go hand in hand. They may not be popular in all social and economic walks of life, but how much wiser we would be is we would stand as Joshua of old, “Let others do as they may, but as for me, we will serve the living God.”

“Let not thine heart be troubled. Thou hast made the way open. Then keep the purposes that are willed in self and in self’s activity as related to the material, the mental, and the spiritual influences in thine activity.

“For He is the way, the life and the truth. No man may approach those things that will be for the constructive influence in his life if they are not founded in the principles He has given, ‘Love thy neighbor as thyself; do good to those that despitefully use you.’

“Feel in thine inner self that thou art being used, and willing to be used by Him - irrespective of the slights, the slurs that may be poked at thee.

“For what gaineth the soul that maketh or exalteth itself above its fellow man, by implication, by word, or by deed?

“But rather let thine yeas and thy nays be in the Christ Consciousness. Remember, there is within - rather - that guidance necessary. Thou hast named the Name, thou hast within thine experience the greater director - the Maker, the Creator of the worlds! And in Him there is hope, life, and without Him there is little! [378-47]

“Then do not confuse thyself with man-made experiences. For He has given as has been directed in those that should be thy studies, ‘Ask and it shall be given thee: seek and ye shall know what has been prepared for thee from the foundations of the world.!’

“Then let thy yeas be yea, thy nays be nay in the application of that He has given, ‘In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so I would have told you. I have gone to prepare a place, that as I am there ye may be also. Ye know the way!’ [1158-3]

“Then follow close in that way and manner as He hath given. For the law of the Lord is love, and it is in each soul that it finds the answer to those promises as He hath made. Those promises are for each soul. For He is the church, the bridegroom for each soul that seeks to know His face, and His ways. And He is not slack, as men, in keeping those promises to those who are faithful in meting to their fellow men those very influences that bespeak that the Spirit of Truth is directing! For as He hath given, ‘As ye do it unto the least of my children, ye do it unto me.’

“Hence thine applications become practical, everyday life, and not merely tenets or sayings - but LIFE! For He IS Life! and thy Brother!”

“Know, as has been given of old, the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; but the fear of man is the indication of weakness in the body-mind. [1158-3]

“As has been given, seek ye the Lord while He may be found. ‘Call and I will hear,’ saith the Lord. And this is a promise that each soul must make his own. Not merely by the calling, but as in an active service. For as He hath given, ‘As ye do it unto the least of these, my brethren, ye do it unto me.’

“Remember that given of old, and say not ‘Who will descend from heaven that I may know the Lord,’ or ‘Who would come from over the sea to bring a message;’ for ‘Lo, He is thine own heart.’ And His Son, even Jesus Christ, has come into the earth, dwelt among men, and has given ‘Ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place, that where I am, there ye may be also.’

“But, ye may say, this is of old, it was spoken to those present with Him in that hour of separation.

“Yes, but He hath promised, ‘If ye will love me and keep my commandments, I and the Father will come and abide with thee.’ And ‘Lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.’ “These ye know. Make them thine own. For thy body is indeed the temple of the living God. Seek not for signs. For, as He hath said, a sign is not given unto a wicked and and adulterous generation. But remember what has been given, that ‘If ye will be my children, I will be your God. Though ye go far, if ye call I will hear, and answer speedily.’ [531-9]

“Trust not in the short arm of material things but putting aside all those things that do so easily beset - doubt, fear, hate, jealousy, - so live before even those who question thee, even those who doubt thy purposes, that THEY may know ye walk and talk oft with thy Lord, the Christ. Not as one boasting of power, or as one boasting of companionships, but humble thyself even as He. Though He were the Son, know that there was the lonesomeness, the fear of those influences that beset those He loved. Yet knowing He hath entered into that glory, becoming the high priest of HIS people, they that seek Him daily, and having sat down on the right hand of the Father, then through Him ye have that promise, ‘Lo, I am WITH thee.’

“With this assurance, why should doubt and fear, why should the turmoils that arise bring consternation or trembling within thee?

“For He hath assured that He will give that peace within, not as the world knoweth peace, but that peace that comes from the knowledge that, ‘As I treat my fellow man, day by day, so am I treating my Lord, my Master - even my brother, Jesus the Christ.’

“Let not thy heart be troubled, neither be afraid. For as ye seek, as ye LIVE, so will it be measured unto thee and thine. For the love of the Father in the Christ casteth out fear, and brings that assurance of His abiding presence with thee.

“So surround thyself by thought, by deed, by act, WITH the consciousness of the Christ that NO MAN, no group, no THOUGHT, may hurt thee.

“Thy future life is in thine own making. For know, He, the Father, hath made thee a free-willed individual; choosing then (and choose YE) whom ye will serve.

“There is set before thee life and death, good and evil, choose THOU!

“As to what, as to which, as to where, as to how ye will choose, - this is within thine OWN consciousness. Choose thou.

“Let thy prayer ever be: LORD, MAKER OF HEAVEN AND EARTH!

GIVER OF LIFE AND LOVE THAT IS MANIFESTED IN JESUS THE CHRIST! BE THOU NEAR UNTO ME! NOT THAT I MAY HAVE OTHER THAN PERSONAL LOVE FOR THEE AND THY PURPOSE IN THE EARTH. MAKE ME A CHANNEL, O GOD, OF BLESSINGS TO OTHERS DAY BY DAY. IN HIS NAME WE ASK THIS.” [531-9]

Background

Background

B1. Subject of Reading 262-130 - “Norfolk Study Group #1.”

Mentioned Entities

Soul, Ideal, Jesus Christ, Purpose, Free Will, Holy Spirit, Law of Moses, Adam and Eve, Meditation, Prayer, Cain and Abel, Creative Forces, Entity (Cayce Term), John (Apostle), Crucifixion, Joshua, Search for God Study Groups, Temple of Solomon, Christ Consciousness, Destiny

Source: The Complete Edgar Cayce Readings, A.R.E. CD-ROM (2006). Reading 262-130, ReadingID 1510.