Now when Job's three friends heard of all this evil that had come upon him, they came each from his own place… And when they saw him from a distance, they did not recognize him. And they raised their voices and wept, and they tore their robes and sprinkled dust on their heads toward heaven. And they sat with him on the ground seven days and seven nights, and no one spoke a word to him, for they saw that his suffering was very great.
–Job 2:11-13
I read a survey once in USA Today that was conducted among parents. The question was asked, “Do you think you’re doing a better job raising your children than your parents did?” And overwhelmingly, these parents said that they were, in fact ,doing a better job than their parents.
Yet, when you examine the facts, you discover that while the average parent 30 years ago spent 2 or 3 hours a day with their children, the average parent today spends less than 15 minutes a day with their kids. And do you know how love is given and received by people today? Time.
That’s why I love today’s passage. When Job had lost everything – his family, his possessions, and his home – his three friends came and just spent time with him. They wanted him to know that someone cared for him!
Love is expressed in sacrifice for others. That’s why spending your time with those you love is so very important. So whether it’s your family, your friends, or just someone who needs you to be there, sacrifice your own time for the sake of others. When you do, you may just realize it was the best possible use of it!
FOR SO MANY PEOPLE TODAY, LOVE IS EXPRESSED IN TIME. SO INVEST YOUR TIME WITH THOSE YOU LOVE SO THEY’LL KNOW THEY’RE IMPORTANT TO YOU.
