II Corinthians 12

“Therefore, I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong” (v10). Paul had much to boast about. He had demonstrated “the signs of a true apostle” (v12), and he had suffered as a servant of Christ (11:23-28). He had experienced visions and was a well-respected missionary teacher. Yet, “to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh …” (12:7).

Aware of his own inadequacy, Paul leaned on Christ and allowed the Spirit to work through him.