Bear It

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I Corinthians 13:7 (NKJV) “(Love)…bears all things...”

Think

"Love bears all things." At first glance, it might sound like love is simply enduring hardship. But the Greek word stegō used here paints a richer picture. It means “to cover,” “to protect,” or even “to shield.” This isn’t just about putting up with difficulties—it’s about love actively providing a covering, like a roof that shelters us from the storm.

Think of a roof during a downpour. It doesn’t stop the rain from falling, but it shields what’s inside from being destroyed. That’s what stegō means: love doesn’t eliminate challenges, but it creates a safe space in the midst of them. Theologian Alexander Maclaren beautifully describes it as a love that “throws a cloak of silence over faults.” This isn’t about ignoring sin, but rather protecting others from unnecessary shame while gently working toward restoration.

True love doesn’t broadcast someone’s failures or delight in their struggles. It doesn’t air dirty laundry for all to see. Instead, it covers, protects, and guards the heart of the other. C.S. Lewis said, “To love at all is to be vulnerable.” And vulnerability requires the kind of love that says, “I’ll stand with you, protect you, and walk with you, no matter what comes.”

But this love isn’t easy. It’s sacrificial. It means setting aside pride, choosing forgiveness over resentment, and offering grace instead of judgment. It’s the kind of love Christ shows us—a love that bore the weight of our sins and shields us with his grace.

Here’s the challenge: look for someone in your life who needs covering. Maybe it’s someone who feels exposed by their failures or weighed down by shame. Be the one to shield them—not by excusing their struggles but by standing with them, speaking truth in love, and pointing them to Jesus. Because love doesn’t just endure—it protects, it covers, and it restores, just as Christ’s love restores us to the Father. That’s the love that changes everything.

Apply

Forgive and restore. Think of someone who may have hurt you or let you down. Instead of holding on to resentment, choose to forgive them and offer them grace.

Pray

God, teach me to love like you—shielding others with grace and covering them in truth. Help me to protect, forgive, and restore those who feel burdened by shame or failure. May my love reflect your sacrificial love and bring hope and healing. In Jesus’ name. Amen.