¹⁰ That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight^(A) in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships,^(B) in persecutions,^(C) in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.^(D)

⁹ But he said to me, “My grace^(A) is sufficient for you, for my power^(B) is made perfect in weakness.^(C)”^(D) Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.

The Armor of God

¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord^(A) and in his mighty power.^(B)

³ Not only so, but we^[a] also glory in our sufferings,^(A) because we know that suffering produces perseverance;^(B)

⁴ For to be sure, he was crucified in weakness,^(A) yet he lives by God’s power.^(B) Likewise, we are weak^(C) in him, yet by God’s power we will live with him^(D) in our dealing with you.

Trials and Temptations

² Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters,^[a] whenever you face trials of many kinds,^(A)

⁶ In all this you greatly rejoice,^(A) though now for a little while^(B) you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials.^{(C) 7} These have come so that the proven genuineness^(D) of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire^(E)—may result in praise, glory and honor^(F) when Jesus Christ is revealed.^(G)

⁴ Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses;