THE TIME IS SHORT

1 Corinthians 7:29-31 But this I say, brethren, the time is short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none; and they that weep, as though they wept not; and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and they that buy, as though they possessed not; and they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away.

The time is short! What time is Paul referring to in the lesson text? Looking back at the preceding verse 26, Paul is referring to a present (time of) distress. History bears out the fact that, at this time Nero was planning, and putting into action, a grievous persecution of the church of Christ, not only in the city of Corinth, but also throughout the entire Roman Empire. In order for people to devote more time and attention to the impending crisis, Paul recommended, in verses 26-28 above, that it would be better if any marriage plans were put on hold. This was not a directly inspired command, but a suggestion of caution until the time of distress had abated.

This caution of the impending crisis probably referred to the persecution that was about to take place, and this would have a devastating effect on their lives. When applied to one's entire life, this caution deserves equal attention. Considering one's lifetime, we can also say that the time is short. Psalmists gave us their wisdom about the brevity of life. The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labor and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away (Psalm 90:10). Also, As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth. For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more (Psalm 103:15-16). To the Roman Christians, Paul wrote, And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light (Rom. 13:11-12). The apostle, Peter wrote this short, concise message, which confirms that our time on earth is short. But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer (1 Pet. 4:7).

Considering both the nearness of impending events that happen frequently during one's lifetime, as well as the brevity of one's life on earth, Paul cautions Christians not to be totally engrossed in either:the cares and troubles of the world in which we live, or in physical enjoyments it offers. All gifts come from God. These gifts sustain our life make it more pleasant. The gift of our talents and abilities are to be used - they are given for the benefit of each person in God's creation. These physical and material gifts are to serve one's needs, but we are not to serve them; they are our possessions, but we are not to be possessed by them. If allowed to do so, earthly desires and material things can consume one's total time and effort, at the expense of the thing that should be most important - preparing for eternal life.

Paul lists a number of things that can occur during life on earth that can consume us - things that steal ouir time that should be devoted to spiritual matters. Marriage relationships are specifically referred to in verse 29, and explained further in the remaining verses following the lesson text. However, the same teaching could very well include other family members such as parents, children, grandchildren, etc. Much of one's lifetime is spent providing for, and interacting with family. God requires devotion to family. It is also one of life's pleasures. However, if allowed, it can consume one's entire life, and leave no time for things spiritual. Our families require much of our time, however, God does not expect us to devote ourselves completely to it. Spiritual nourishment for self and family is not to go unattended. We should also set aside sufficient time to serve personal needs of fellow Christians, participate in congregational activities, and to share the gospel of Christ with family, friends, and neighbors. Our time on earth is short. It should be used efficiently and effectively with godly wisdom.

In one's life, there is a time to weep, a time to rejoice, and a time to buy (and sell). Although necessary, sadness and sorrow, joy and gladness can consume much of our time. Our profession, our business, our devotion to the accumulation of wealth, can also consume one's entire lifetime. Things of the world are given for our use, not our abuse. The time is short here on earth. Leave sufficient time to demonstrate love for God and love for our neighbor. It is God's law! Jesus recites it to us in Matthew 22:37-40.