Did God Not Say That?

It's better to meditate on what God's word actually says, but it can also be useful at times to meditate on what God's word does not say.

Here's what I mean. Recently, I borrowed Anna's Bible and happened upon a note (from a Beth Moore Bible study I believe) she had handwritten beside Philippians 4:6-7.

This is how the verse appears in Scripture:

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God.  And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

This is how Anna's note, casting the verse in the negative, appears:

"Do not be calm about anything, but in everything without prayer and without humility, without any thankfulness, do not tell God what you need.  Then, you will not have any peace, nor understanding or clarity, so your heart will be open to all and your mind will be like the sea tossed to and fro by the wind."

God's word, as inspired by His Spirit, is like a jewel. It is a wonder to behold, but turning it can give another perspective that's beautiful as well.  I think that's what's going on here.  The Spirit meant every word He inspired, so we do well to pour over each word and think deeply on what He meant.  But there are times when we can benefit by thinking over what He did not say as well.

Question:  What does your favorite verse look like in the negative?