1 Corinthians 13:7 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 13:7 mean?

1 Corinthians 13:7 describes how love acts: it puts up with everything, keeps trusting, keeps hoping, and keeps going no matter what. The verse lists four ways that real love shows itself by not giving up, even when things are hard or disappointing.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, teaching them what true love looks like in everyday life, especially as they deal with conflicts and differences. In this part of his letter, Paul is explaining that love is not just a feeling but a steady, active choice to support, trust, hope, and endure for others, no matter the circumstances.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 13:7

• "Beareth" (στέγει, stegei): This Greek word often means to cover over, protect, or bear up under something. Here, it suggests that love puts up with difficulties or shields others from harm.
• "Believeth" (πιστεύει, pisteuei): This word means to trust or have faith. In this context, it shows that love gives others the benefit of the doubt and keeps trusting, even when it’s hard.
• "Hopeth" (ἐλπίζει, elpizei): This word means to expect good or to look forward with confidence. Love keeps looking for the best in people and situations, even when things seem bleak.
• "Endureth" (ὑπομένει, hypomenei): This word means to remain or persevere under pressure. Love does not quit, even when faced with ongoing trouble or pain.

Why 1 Corinthians 13:7 matters

• This verse clears up the idea that love is only about feelings or pleasant moments; Paul shows that love is active and resilient, especially when things are tough.
• The verse emphasizes that love is not naïve or blind, but it chooses to keep trusting, hoping, and enduring, even when let down or hurt.
• In the wider passage, this verse is part of Paul’s famous description of love, showing the Corinthians—and readers today—that love is the foundation for all relationships and actions in the Christian community.