Negative Space

Negative space is a term used in a lot in painting, photography, graphic design, dancing, music and other arts forms. Negative space is the empty space around the object. When used as a part of the art form itself, it brings a richer experience and concept.

In the picture, the beige pieces are the positive space and the black is the negative space. Do you see someone’s name when you focus on the black portion in between? Yep, JESUS!

Where you don’t draw something or place something, is as important as where you do draw or place something. When you don’t play notes, is as important as where you do play. When we lead worship, often times, the most powerful moments are when we stop the music and sing acapella. The moments of silence between verse and chorus, when the voices echo in the sanctuary, are so amazing!

The same is true with the Scriptures. This is where the Holy Spirit speaks – in that still small voice, in between the words. When we slow down enough to taste and see what is in between and among the pauses in scripture, this is often where God reveals Himself personally to you and I in the most profound ways.

How would you read this? Godisnowhere

Do you see “God is now here” or “God is nowhere”? The space makes all the difference.

God, in Scripture, does not tell us everything we want to know, but He does tell us everything we need to know. Sometimes when I’m reading Scripture the negative space or the story behind the story is what most intrigues me. It seems as those these untold elements were withheld on purpose. Not because they weren’t important but because God loves us to be treasure hunters of His word, to dig and discover the jewels and nuggets under the surface. He wants us to seek Him. What you discover may astound you!!

Proverbs 25:2 (TLV) says “It is the glory of God to conceal a matter and the glory of kings to search it out.”

So . . . when you are reading the Bible, ask questions. Step back from the scene and see what seems to be missing. Place yourself in the negative space. What questions arise? What does it reveal about God? What is He saying to you? What you learn may challenge you, encourage you, or it might just make you think. Either way, the negative space of scripture might be a treasure hunt worth taking!