Definition: And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Corinthians 12:9. It’s a really interesting and complex passage about overcoming challenges and trusting in God's strength. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that Paul, who was facing significant hardship and illness, felt incredibly grateful for God’s grace – his love and power – even though he was experiencing weakness and difficulty. He wasn’t trying to hide his struggles; instead, he wanted to show the power of Christ through those difficulties. Let's unpack it word-by-word (a little): “And he said unto me…” : This is Paul speaking directly to him. He’s conveying something important to him. “…My grace is sufficient for thee…” : This means that God’s love and forgiveness – his grace – are enough to cover all of his problems and suffering. It's not about avoiding hardship, but about being protected by it. “For my strength is made perfect in weakness.” : This is the key part! Paul is saying that his weakness (his illness, pain, or difficulty) isn’t a problem; it’s actually a gift . His weaknesses are not a hindrance, but rather a way for God to work through him and demonstrate His power. Think of it like this: a sculptor doesn't try to make a statue perfect – they embrace the imperfections to reveal beauty. “Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities…” : This is where the desire to show Christ’s strength comes in. Paul isn't trying to be strong because he’s weak; he wants to show his strength through his vulnerability. He wants to highlight God's power through his suffering. So, what’s the whole point? Paul is saying that even though he was facing a difficult time, he wasn't afraid of it. Instead of trying to hide his weakness, he wanted to prove the power of God by embracing it. He believed that God would use his struggles to show Him and His strength. It’s about a shift in perspective – from feeling powerless to recognizing God as the source of all strength. In a nutshell: Paul was grateful for God's grace, even though he was suffering. He wanted to show God's power through his weakness, demonstrating that His love and strength are greater than anything he could face alone. Important Note: This is a complex passage with layers of meaning. It’s often interpreted as a testament to faith and trust in God, even when facing hardship. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of how this principle applies to everyday life? Answer any specific questions you have about it?