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1 It is necessary to boast; it is not profitable indeed, but I will go to visions and revelations of the Lord. 2 I know a man in Christ, fourteen years ago—whether in the body, I do not know, or out of the body, I do not know; God knows—such a man, having been caught up to the third heaven. 3 And I know such a man—whether in the body or apart from the body, I do not know; God knows— 4 that he was caught up into Paradise, and he heard inexpressible words, not being permitted to man to speak. 5 On behalf of such a man I will boast; but on behalf of myself I will not boast, except in the weaknesses. 6 For if I should want to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be speaking the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should reckon to me above what he sees in me or anything he hears of me, 7 and the surpassingness of the revelations. Therefore, so that I should not be over-exalted, a thorn in my flesh was given to me, a messenger of Satan, that he might buffet me, so that I should not be over-exalted. 8 Three times I entreated the Lord for this, that it might depart from me. 9 And He has said to me, “My grace suffices for you, for the power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, rather, I will boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I am well pleased in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions and difficulties—for Christ; for when I may be weak, then I am powerful. 2 Corinthians 12:1-10, Berean Literal Bible. Public domain.
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