Lectio
Charity envieth not, dealeth not perversely; is not puffed up.
Charity envieth not, dealeth not perversely; is not puffed up.
The Apostle now begins to remove the vices that are contrary to charity. First among them is envy, for envy is sorrow at another’s good. Nothing reveals the poverty of the human heart more clearly than this—that a man can be grieved not only by his own suffering, but by another’s blessing. Thus envy destroys both peace and love, because it cannot rejoice except in its own exaltation. But charity rejoices in the good wherever it is found, since it seeks not its own glory, but the glory of God. (St. John Chrysostom)
Envy springs from pride and from an earthly way of judging things. Men compare themselves constantly with one another, fearing that another’s wisdom, holiness, success, or praise somehow diminishes their own worth. But Augustine teaches that every good thing comes from God and belongs ultimately to Him. Therefore, when the charitable soul sees another adorned with grace or giftedness, it does not grow bitter, but gives thanks to God. For charity understands that the good of one member belongs, in some way, to the whole body. (St. Augustine)
“Dealeth not perversely.” Charity does not behave dishonorably or seek attention through outward display. Pride loves to be noticed; charity is content to remain hidden. There are some who desire even their virtues to be seen by men, and who turn good works themselves into occasions for vanity. But charity acts simply and sincerely, because it seeks God rather than applause. Thus the Apostle cuts away every desire for self-exaltation hidden beneath apparently holy actions. (St. John Chrysostom)
“Is not puffed up.” Pride swells the soul with a false greatness. The proud man attributes good to himself and delights in his own superiority. Yet all such swelling is emptiness, for whatever good a man possesses has first been received from God. Augustine repeatedly teaches that humility is the dwelling place of charity. The more the soul grows in love, the less it seeks to raise itself above others. Charity bends downward in humility because it imitates Christ Himself, who, though He was Lord of all, humbled Himself for the salvation of men. (St. Augustine)
Sources: St. John Chrysostom, Homilies on First Corinthians, Homily 33; St. Augustine, sermons and writings on charity, humility, and pride.
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