How can we practically "bear all things" in our daily relationships? The Call to Bear All Things “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.” (1 Corinthians 13:7) What “Bear” Means • The Greek “stegō” pictures a roof that shields from storm—love protects. • It also speaks of quietly enduring without giving up. • So to “bear all things” is to cover others with patient, persevering care. Habits That Help Us Bear All Things • Cultivate humility: “with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love” (Ephesians 4:2). • Keep short accounts: confess sin quickly and forgive quickly. • Pray for the person, not about the person—intercession softens irritation. • Remember your own forgiven debt (Matthew 18:33). • Speak less, listen more (James 1:19). Practical Steps for Every Relationship 1. Overlook minor offenses. – “A man’s insight gives him patience, and his virtue is to overlook an offense.” (Proverbs 19:11) 2. Cover faults with love. – “Love covers over a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8) 3. Carry burdens, not grudges. – “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) 4. Refuse gossip; protect reputations. 5. Speak truth seasoned with grace (Colossians 4:6). 6. Keep hope alive—expect God to finish His work in the other person (Philippians 1:6). Guardrails for the Heart • Stay nourished in Scripture daily; truth steadies emotions. • Practice thankful worship; gratitude drowns complaint. • Rest when weary; fatigue erodes patience. • Seek wise counsel when boundaries are needed—bearing is not enabling sin. The Example of Christ “Surely He took on our infirmities and carried our sorrows.” (Isaiah 53:4) Jesus bore our sin on the cross (1 Peter 2:24). When His life fills ours, His bearing power flows through us. Quick Summary to Remember Believe the best. Endure the worst. Cover with love. Carry the weight. |
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