A Thorn in the Flesh

Because of the extraordinary greatness of the (A)revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given to me a (B)thorn in the flesh, a (C)messenger of Satan to [a]torment me—to keep me from exalting myself! Concerning this I pleaded with the Lord (D)three times that it might leave me. And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for (E)power is perfected in weakness.” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather (F)boast [b]about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. 10 Therefore (G)I delight in weaknesses, in [c]insults, in (H)distresses, in (I)persecutions, in (J)difficulties, (K)in behalf of Christ; for (L)when I am weak, then I am strong.

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Footnotes

  1. 2 Corinthians 12:7 Lit beat
  2. 2 Corinthians 12:9 Lit in
  3. 2 Corinthians 12:10 Or mistreatment

And by reason of the exceeding greatness of the [a]revelations, that I should not be exalted overmuch, there was given to me a [b]thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to buffet me, that I should not be exalted overmuch. Concerning this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he hath said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my power is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may [c]rest upon me. 10 Wherefore I take pleasure in weaknesses, in injuries, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

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Footnotes

  1. 2 Corinthians 12:7 Some ancient authorities read revelations—wherefore, that etc.
  2. 2 Corinthians 12:7 Or, stake
  3. 2 Corinthians 12:9 Or, cover me. Greek spread a tabernacle over me. See Rev. 7:15.