The greatest benefit to be gained from conversation is the acquisition of knowledge of the ways by which one may encourage and administer true Christian love, and teaching how it should be shown to others. By his sufferings on behalf of others, his letters containing spiritual knowledge and discipline, and by the creation of good associations, the apostle Paul showed love. With reference to love, the apostle Paul wrote: "For at present we see in hazy outline by means of a metal mirror, but then it will be face to face. At present I know partially, but  then I shall know accurately even as I am accurately known" (by The Christ). (1 Cor 13:12). ⁽¹⁰⁵⁾  In his conversations, in describing its principles in his letters, and in his selfless deeds, Paul could show love only partially. But The Christ was able to administer love to Paul completely, by his perfect knowledge of Paul's weaknesses, and by using the Spirit of God to free him.  Paul was pursuing this knowledge through Spirit communications from The Christ. ⁽¹⁰⁶⁾

"A physical man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot get to know them, because they are examined spiritually. However, the spiritual man examines indeed all things, but he himself is not examined by any man."  (From 1 Cor 2:14,15). The all things of course is the spirit that motivates all people. A spiritual man examines himself spiritually according to Spirit communications from God.

But I have heard it said: 'But what does God do for the sick?'  The Word states: "Those  who suffer he rescues through suffering and teaches them by the discipline of affliction."  (Job 36:15 NEB).  How sad that for those suffering affliction but refusing to accept the Spirit creative discipline of God within it. For them there exists only pain and hopelessness.  Job was a man sick with affliction, and in conference with a servant of God expressed many things. Although disciplined by God, he proved worthy of it.

There are, however, those who avoid suffering at all cost, preferring to flit superficially around people, like butterflies. They take flight from issues that scrutinize them.  Touch upon their spiritual need with good morals, and expect to receive poisonous invective in return.

Liars find accomplices.  Rarely is the origin of a pernicious utterance confessed, and hardly at all is the originator unmasked.  But when they are caught in a lie, liars often exhibit a brazen countenance to accompany their odious spirit.  But why do they lie?  A liar either gives a plausible excuse for the lie, or he denies it.

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