We use that word quite often when we say things like, "I'll be there in a jiffy." "I'll have it done in a jiffy."

What we mean is that we will get something done very quickly. But where does this word come from? The history is quite interesting.

"Jiffy" began appearing in the English language in the late 1700s. It means an instant or a very short time. One old theory connects the word with slang for lightning, or something that happens in a flash.

In other words, if you could do something "in a jiffy," you could do it as fast as lightning.

And we love that idea today, don't we?

Fast food. Fast internet. Fast (and free) shipping. Fast answers. We celebrate efficiency and speed. If something can be done in a jiffy, that's a good thing.

But here are some things that should never be done in a jiffy:

Listening to someone's pain.

People don't typically need an answer nearly as much as they need someone willing to sit and listen. That takes time.

Making life-changing decisions.

Some decisions deserve prayer, reflection, wisdom, and maybe a good night's sleep before you try to move a mountain, bet the farm, or go for broke.

Building trust.

You can't manufacture genuine trust in a hurry. Trust is built one conversation, one promise, and one faithful action at a time.

There are plenty of things in life that are better done in a jiffy, like making your bed in the morning, saying a kind word to someone who you know is struggling, or answering an important call before it goes to voicemail.

But people aren't one of them.

Slow down.

Take the necessary extra time. Listen a little longer. Pray a little deeper. Give someone your full attention.

Because when it comes to people, sometimes the most loving thing you can do is not doing it in a jiffy.