1 Corinthians 4:12

12 We work hard with our own hands for our food. When people curse us, we bless them. When they hurt us, we put up with it.

1 Corinthians 4:12 Meaning and Commentary

1 Corinthians 4:12

And labour, working with our own hands
As the apostle did at Corinth, ( Acts 18:3 ) and elsewhere; partly to minister to his own necessities, and those of others; and partly that he might not be burdensome to the churches; and also to set an example of diligence and industry to others; though he had a right and power to claim a maintenance of those to whom he ministered.

Being reviled, we bless;
as Christ commanded, ( Matthew 5:44 ) and the apostle himself directed and exhorted to, ( Romans 12:14 )

being persecuted, we suffer it;
that is, patiently; neither resisting our persecutors, nor murmuring and repining at our unhappy circumstances; but taking all in good part, as what is the will of God, and will make for his glory.

1 Corinthians 4:12 In-Context

10 We are fools for Christ's sake, but you are very wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You receive honor, but we are shamed.

11 Even to this very hour we do not have enough to eat or drink or to wear. We are often beaten, and we have no homes in which to live.

12 We work hard with our own hands for our food. When people curse us, we bless them. When they hurt us, we put up with it.

13 When they tell evil lies about us, we speak nice words about them. Even today, we are treated as though we were the garbage of the world -- the filth of the earth.

14 I am not trying to make you feel ashamed. I am writing this to give you a warning as my own dear children.