1 Corinthians 13:7
Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
1 Corinthians 13:7: "Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things."
This verse highlights love as steadfast and hopeful. “Beareth all things” suggests enduring difficulties without breaking; “believeth all things” implies a generous trust in others and in God’s redemptive work; “hopeth all things” signals hopeful anticipation for the best outcomes aligned with God’s purposes; “endureth all things” reiterates perseverance through trials. In Corinth, where relational strain could be high and skepticism common, love remains the core resilience that sustains community. The verse envisions a posture of unwavering commitment, not naive optimism, but trust rooted in God’s faithfulness. It captures the attitude that love sustains through adversity, forgives, and refuses to abandon hope, even when circumstances are discouraging. This is the heart of mature, gospel-shaped community life.
Theologically, the verse encapsulates love as future-oriented and redemptive. It trusts God and others in light of the gospel, anchored in the hope of God’s promises. This perseverance echoes Paul’s broader teaching on endurance in the faith and the ultimate hope of the resurrection. It also aligns with Christ’s own example—enduring the cross for the joy set before Him (Hebrews 12:2). The verse thus portrays love as a powerful, non-responding-to-crisis force that chooses trust, faith, and patience.
In daily life, practice patient trust. When relationships falter, be willing to endure, forgive, and keep hope alive for restoration. In difficult work or ministry contexts, choose to persevere, extend trust where appropriate, and maintain a hopeful outlook that God is at work. Be careful not to confuse “believeth all things” with naïveté; exercise discernment and wisdom, but still opt for trust and grace where possible. When facing long-term challenges, cultivate resilience by leaning on community, prayer, and Scripture. Let love translate into continued commitment to the good of others, even when it’s costly.
Cross-References: Romans 12:12; 1 Thessalonians 5:13; Galatians 6:9; James 1:12; 2 Corinthians 4:8-9