The Apostle gathers together in these words the steadfast strength of charity. Love does not quickly abandon its course when trials arise. “Beareth all things” does not mean that charity approves of evil, but that it perseveres through weakness, injury, disappointment, and suffering without ceasing to love. For there are many who appear charitable while circumstances are favorable, yet fall away when tested. True charity is proven not in ease, but in endurance. (St. John Chrysostom)

“Believeth all things.” The Fathers explain that charity is not foolish gullibility, but a disposition of trust rather than suspicion. The charitable soul is not eager to condemn or to assume evil motives where they are uncertain. Augustine teaches that pride delights in harsh judgment because it secretly exalts itself above others, whereas charity inclines toward mercy whenever truth allows it. Thus charity seeks to preserve peace and goodwill rather than eagerly uncover faults. (St. Augustine)

“Hopeth all things.” Charity never easily despairs of another soul. Even when a man has fallen deeply into sin, charity continues to hope in the power of God’s grace. The proud heart quickly dismisses others as hopeless or beyond correction; but charity remembers its own need for mercy. Therefore it prays, labors, forgives, and waits patiently for God to work. Such hope is not grounded in human strength, but in confidence that God is able to heal what appears ruined to men. (St. John Chrysostom)

“Endureth all things.” The Apostle returns again to perseverance because endurance is one of the clearest signs of genuine love. Charity remains constant not only in small irritations, but through long afflictions and heavy crosses. Augustine teaches that whatever is endured for the love of God becomes lighter because love itself carries the burden. The martyrs endured torments, not because suffering ceased to be painful, but because charity made them steadfast. Thus the soul rooted in charity learns gradually to remain faithful through changing circumstances, trusting that no suffering borne in love is wasted before God. (St. Augustine)

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Sources: St. John Chrysostom, Homilies on First Corinthians, Homily 33; St. Augustine, sermons and writings on charity, perseverance, mercy, and hope.