Above all, maintain constant love for one another, since love covers a multitude of sins. —1 Peter 4:8
Proverbs 10:12 says, “Hatred stirs up conflicts, but love covers all offenses.” And in 1 Peter, the apostle tells us that “love covers a multitude of sins.” Just think about that. When something is covered, it can’t be seen. Consider that if we apply love as a covering, we could actually love those who’ve hurt us. For sure, this is a hard thing. This is a God thing!
We are no more like our God than when we are operating in love—for our God is love (1 John 4:7–8). When we remind ourselves of the tremendous way that He loves us, it helps us, as sinners, to love other sinners! The Lord, who was sinless, loved us while we were still in our sin. It’s not easy, but that’s the call.
But wait . . . love doesn’t just cover, it covers a multitude. Love isn’t some flimsy, one-and-done thing. No, it’s ongoing, it’s unconditional, it’s unending, and yet it’s possible—all through the power of our Savior.
Make it Personal
How could you apply love as a covering in situations where it’s difficult to love another person?