Living in The Parenthesis

A parenthesis is a peculiar thing. Parentheses are used by writers to set apart information which they want you to know but do not feel is essential. The material in a parenthesis could be dropped without doing damage to the overall story but it does make a contribution.

Not so with Scripture.  The Word of God is full of parenthetical statements. The Lord Jesus taught that every word of Scripture is given by God. In fact, he went so far as to say that even the “jot and tittle” (the smallest markings in Hebrew writing) would be fulfilled. (Please note that parenthetical statements do aid in understanding!) The Holy Ghost inspired not just the thoughts but the very words of Scripture. Here is the point: even God’s parentheses are important.

Life is full of parentheses.  College is a parenthesis.  It does not last forever (thank the Lord!).  It has a definite beginning and ending.  One may live without it but it is important.  Trouble is a parenthesis.  When we are in it, we think it will never end.  It will.

How do you live through the parenthesis?  One of God’s parenthetical statements holds the answer.  2 Corinthians 5:7 reads, “(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)”  It is interesting that the Lord would choose to put this wonderful truth in a parenthesis.  Life in the parenthesis must be lived by faith.  When we cannot see the other side we must trust that our God is putting every part of the story together…including the parentheses.

There are different types of parentheses and different lengths of parenthetical statements.  One thing is sure – the parenthesis you are in will not last forever.  The story will continue.  When you get on the other side it will be easier to understand the contribution it has made to the “tale that is told” of your life.  Until then, living in the parenthesis will require living by faith.