1. Paul's vision (1-6)

Paul had a wonderful vision of heaven, but he did not boast about such spiritual experiences. He did not talk about these things because he did not want people to regard him as God's servant because of his dreams and visions. His life rested on God's grace.

2. A thorn in the flesh (7-10)

We don't know exactly what kind of physical problem troubled Paul. He called it a thorn in the flesh and a messenger from Satan given to torment God's servant. He had seen God answer many prayers for others to be healed, but even though he pleaded three times with the Lord in prayer that God take away his 'thorn,' God said 'No.' God's power is made perfect in our weakness. When we are weak and helpless, we depend on God; he works through our weaknesses to display his power. He wants his servants to be humble and to depend on him.

Application: Lord, thank you for your sufficient grace. Display your mighty power through my weaknesses, for your glory.
One Word: God's grace is sufficient