Friday, March 17, 2006

Charity (part 4)

"Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things." (1 Cor. 13:7)

The Bible says 'all things' and I believe that. Some people think that there are cases (and hard ones of course) where charity just cannot possibly cut it. I believe the Bible is much more practical that what we are accustomed to. For example, the Bible teaches us that if we walk in the Spirit that we will not fullfill the lust of the flesh. In talking to other Christians it seems as though excuses are doled out about certain sins. They accept every excuse I mean everything from 'habits' to 'mental disorder' but never about 'not' walking in the Spirit. Well, the Bible says that charity does these 4 things to 'all things' - and no matter if I understand it or not, I believe that charity enables us to do these things to 'all things.' WOW, I feel like I am talking in circles ( LOL!)

Beareth - to roof over, cover with silence (endure patiently). (Strong) - Charity does not unnecessarily broadcasts someones fault or problem. Charity is interested in regularity rather than sensationalism.

Believeth - Not suspicious. There is such a thing as 'evil surmising' and 'doting' and these are highly unloving and unhealthy for the mind and spirit.

Hopeth - To expect (Strong). Charity has an element of earnest expectation that God is always good and in control, and that His Word is always true. I would differentiate this from 'positive thinking' as described by Peal and also from unfounded credulity.

Endureth - Persevere. Charity will cause us to endure trials for the sake of Christ and the souls of men.

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