2 Corinthians 12:1-10 - A Vision Of Paradise
1 I must brag, although it does not do any good. I will go on to visions and revelations from the Lord. 2 I know a man in Christ, fourteen years ago (whether in the body, I do not know; or whether out of the body, I do not know; God knows), such a one caught up even 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 how he was caught up into Paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to speak. 5 I will brag about this person, but I will not brag about myself unless it is about my weaknesses. 6 If I ever wanted to brag, I would not be a fool. Instead, I would be telling the truth. But I am going to spare you so that no one may think more of me than what he sees or hears about me. 7 I was given a painful physical ailment that will keep me from being puffed up with pride because of the many wonderful things I saw. It acts as Satan's messenger to beat me and keep me from being proud. 8 Three times I prayed to God about this and asked him to take it away. 9 He told me: My grace is sufficient for you for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore, I would rather glory in my infirmities (frailities), that the power of Christ may rest upon me (cover me like a tent) (descend upon me) (abide with me). (Isaiah 40:29-31) 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then I am strong.