June 6, 2023: Love Rejoices With The Truth!

Love... "does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth." (1 Corinthians 13:6, ESV)

In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul characterizes agape love by continuing to list the qualities of agape love.

Have you ever secretly or openly rejoiced when someone you dislike fell upon hard times or difficulties? You may have even said, "Serves him right! He deserved that." Let it be known that this is not how God reacts.

The word 'rejoice' is used twice in verse six. Rejoice comes from the Greek word 'chairo,' which means to be filled with joy and gladness. In the first instance, Paul says that those filled with agape love do not rejoice at people we dislike encountering difficult times. Love does not feel thrilled by others' misfortunes. Love does not rejoice at injustice, dishonesty, or wrong. The second part of the verse says that love rejoices with the truth or is delighted with the truth! Love is thrilled at the expressions of goodness and righteousness in people's lives.

How we respond to other people's misfortunes or their promotions is important to God. Do you rejoice at others' healings? Are you thrilled when others experience blessings? What about those you dislike? Are you secretly smiling when they encounter trouble?

Love does not rejoice at injustice or things done wrong. But, it does rejoice in thrilled ways at the truth. How you respond to other people's trouble or blessings says much about you and your level of spiritual maturity. Love rejoices with the truth!