Western civilization has adopted some false notions about life. For example, many believe that

suffering is caused solely by the devil, while God counteracts it with health and happiness.

Well, according to Chuck Swindall, that's simply not true.

Today, on Insight for Living, we'll look at 2 Corinthians 12, where Paul describes his

thorn in the flesh. Paul's God-given affliction generated virtues that nothing else could.

So what are the implications of Paul's suffering for you and me? Well, we'll find the answer

in Chuck's message titled, Finding Contentment in God's Sufficient Grace.

Let me do something a little different. I'd like you to turn to 2 Corinthians chapter 12.

And I want to read the scriptures in a different manner than I believe I ever have.

The first six verses of chapter 12, I'll read from the New American Standard Bible, which I use and from which I study.

And then beginning of verse 7, if it would distract you to continue watching your Bible,

just close your Bible and listen to a paraphrase from the message by Eugene Peterson in verses 7 through 10.

So I'll read the first six verses, and you follow along,

and verse 7, we'll listen to another way of expressing

verses 7 through 10.

Now, 2 Corinthians 12, 1, boasting is necessary, though it is not profitable,

but I will go on to visions and revelations of the Lord. I know a man in Christ who 14 years

ago, whether in the body I do not know, or out the body I do not know God knows such a man

was caught up to the third heaven and I know how such a man whether in the body or

apart from the body I do not know knows, was caught up into paradise and heard inexpressible

words which a man is not permitted to speak. On behalf of such a man will I boast, but on my own, I will not boast except in regard to my weaknesses.

For if I do wish to boast, I shall not be foolish, for I shall be speaking the truth.

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