Mathematics has always fascinated me. It has always kept my mind busy on thinking the how’s and why’s of it. It makes my brain active and working that delays the reality of forgetfulness as I advance in age.

In my elementary education, I was introduced to mathematics by learning basic arithmetic, a branch of mathematics. In it were the four basic arithmetic operations – addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.  As I progressed in my intermediate and secondary years of studies, I came to know also algebra and trigonometry. All of these molded my mind to appreciate the practical applications of mathematics in the reality of life.

The first basic operation I learned in arithmetic is addition.  It is the process of uniting two or more numbers into one sum, represented by the symbol + (plus sign). The goal in this process is to get a result called the sum or total. However, addition has rule to be followed to obtain correct results. The sign (positive or negative) of the numbers to be added must be considered first. The rule is: To add integers (or whole numbers) having the same sign, keep the same sign and add the absolute value of each number. To add integers with different signs, keep the sign of the number with the largest absolute value and subtract the smallest absolute value from the largest absolute value. Failure to follow this rule will give incorrect result.

Matthew 6:33 says “³³ But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (NKJV). Note that the phrase “shall be added to you” is at the last part of the verse, which indirectly indicates order of priority. To enjoy the benefits of God’s providence, a Christian must first set his or her priority on things about God and His righteousness before everything else. His or her focus must be on what will glorify the name of Christ and not on worldly material things. Expressed in arithmetic terms, to have additive result of God’s provisions, a Christian must first put Christ in his or her life (positive or negative sign). Otherwise, a Christian will get a subtractive result that instead of getting more, he or she is getting lesser.

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