2 Corinthians 12:1-10 - A Vision Of Paradise
1 I am forced to boast, though it is unprofitable, but I will go on to visions and revelations of the Lord. 2 I know a Christian man who, fourteen years ago (whether in the body I know not, or out of the body, I know not. God knows), was caught up??his man of whom I speak??ven into the third heaven. 3 And I know such a man (whether in the body or apart from the body I know not, God knows), 4 who was caught up into Paradise, and heard unutterable words which no human being is permitted to utter. 5 Of such a one I will boast; but on my own behalf I will not boast except in my weaknesses. 6 If I should choose to continue boasting I should not be foolish, for I should be speaking the truth. But I refrain, lest by the stupendous grandeur of the revelation any one should estimate me beyond what he sees in me, or hears from me. 7 It was for this reason, lest I should be over-elated, that there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan, to buffet me, lest I should be over-elated. 8 Concerning this, three times over I supplicated the Lord that it might leave me; 9 but he has answered me. "My grace is sufficient for you; it is in weakness that my power is perfected." 10 Most gladly therefore will I boast rather of my weakness, that over me like a tent may be pitched the power of Christ. That is why I rejoice in weakness, in ill-treatment, in troubles, in persecutions and calamities for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then am I strong.