In our last visit we looked at Job 1:4-5 and chapter 8:4. We spread out what we found in those passages about Job and his children. Now let’s sort and structure this information into an outline.
Under the title: Parental Care for the Spiritual Welfare of Adult Children, I came up with three points: 1. the relationship of the kids to each other. 2. The relationship of the kids to God. 3. The spiritual responsibility Job took for his kids.
Let’s amplify these points. Under point one I noted, the kids shared what they had with each other and they seemed to enjoy each other. Under point two, their relationship with God, they seemed to be careless and needed their father’s encouragement to purify themselves after their parties. Under point three Job felt a spiritual responsibility to send his kids to be purified after their parties, and just in case they didn’t, he made an offering for them himself.
The fourth step in the “4S” study approach is to summarize what was found into some practical applications. For example: Parents should never get to the place where they are unconcerned for their children’s spiritual life, even when they are independent adults. Children should seek their parent’s wisdom and counsel and be appreciative of their parent’s concern for them. Having a good time as siblings sharing food and drink together is okay, but always guard against carelessness. Carelessness often leads to sin or compromise. Finally, spiritual restoration should be encouraged whenever needed.