Numbers and life

Some years ago, there was a show on Brazilian TV in which a comedian mimicked a minister from the government who would often say, “What matters is numbers.” The comedian’s playfulness is a sign that humanity today seems to be worried about and bound to “numbers.” Numbers are often used to record past events and to make forecasts for the future. Impacts of natural disasters are estimated or measured in terms of financial loss or the number of lives lost. The global economy is based on numbers. 

We’re all used to dealing with numbers related to daily life, with regard to matters such as health, financial situations, family expenses, and life expectancy. The science of mathematics, for which numbers are indispensable, helps maintain our lives in order. In this line of reasoning, numbers are necessary to our lives. However, they can become a limiting factor for an individual. Why? Because we may see numbers as limiting, especially when we think of them to measure material possessions and supply.

We can be free from the limiting attachment to numbers by observing our surroundings from a new and spiritual point of view. Is this possible? Yes, and we can find in the Bible and in Christ Jesus’ ministry examples that illustrate how numerical limitations were overcome through a radical trust in God, infinite Spirit. 

Think of the multiplication of the loaves and the fishes, when more than 5,000 people were fed with what “numerically speaking” were only five loaves and two fishes (see Matthew 14:13–21 ). On that occasion, the disciples counted the food available and the number of people, and concluded that the numbers did not match. However, Jesus measured supply from a spiritual point of view, knowing that the substance of divine good cannot be measured or subject to any limitation. The resources of God, good, are unlimited and always meet the needs of every one of His children.

The widow of Zarephath had a similar demonstration when, from a handful of meal, she was able to feed the prophet Elijah, her son, and herself for many days (see I Kings 17:8–16 ). Under Elisha’s guidance another widow was able to fill several vessels with oil from just the small quantity of oil she had in a pot, and through the sale of the oil, she was able to pay off her debts (see II Kings 4:1–7 ).

All that comes from the source of infinite Life, God, is constantly and openly pouring forth to everyone.

These Bible accounts are proofs that everyone can be free from the subtle mental bondage that focuses only on what the numbers show. Let us consider some simple examples: Whenever we hear someone’s age, the aspects related to that person may come to our thought, such as his or her appearance and age-related problems. When we think about our own age, the same concerns might come up and fill us with fear. But when we cease focusing so much on counting age and provision numerically, we may feel freer from limitations and enjoy longevity and constant supply. What do we need to focus on? On filling our consciousness with thoughts grounded on the understanding that all that comes from the source of infinite Life, God, is constantly and openly pouring forth to everyone.

We don’t need to be deceived by thoughts that try to make us believe that the passing of time is a negative factor. In God, divine Life, we do not live in the past or in the future. We live eternally in the now. Maintaining the perspective of this divine dimension frees us from concerns and limitations.

Now is the time to perform our tasks free from probabilities based on numerical limitation. As in the now there is no passing of time, in divine reality we do not grow old, nor are we bound to a “numerical” life expectancy. Mary Baker Eddy, author of the book Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, mentioned on page 584 : “… Mind measures time according to the good that is unfolded.” Prayerfully acknowledging the infinite good that is constantly unfolding to every child of God brings perennial freedom and happiness. And, with a sense of gratitude, we can enjoy the blessings that praising unlimited divine Life brings!