It is necessary to boast, though it is not profitable; but I will go on to visions and revelations from the Lord.
I know a person in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know; God knows.
And I know that such a person—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know; God knows—
was caught up into Paradise and heard things that are not to be told, that no mortal is permitted to repeat.
I will boast about such a person, but I will not boast about myself, except about my weaknesses.
But if I wish to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be speaking the truth; but I refrain from it, so that no one may think better of me than what is seen in me or heard from me.
But to keep me from being too elated, a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me, to keep me from being too elated.
Three times I appealed to the Lord about this, that it would leave me,
but he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” So, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.
Therefore I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ; for whenever I am weak, then I am strong.
I have become a fool in boasting; you compelled me, for I ought to have been commended by you.
For I am not weak in dealing with you, but I am powerful among you; but I have made myself a fool, and you have compelled me.
Why? To shame you? No, I am not ashamed—but I will not be put to shame, either, so that I may shame those who want to be put to shame.
It is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”
Look at the things that are before your eyes.
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