7. especially because of the excessive number of revelations that I’ve had.Therefore, to keep me from becoming conceited, I am forced to deal with a recurring problem. That problem, Satan’s messenger, torments me to keep me from being conceited.
8. I begged the Lord three times to take it away from me.
9. But he told me: “My kindness is all you need. My power is strongest when you are weak.” So I will brag even more about my weaknesses in order that Christ’s power will live in me.
10. Therefore, I accept weakness, mistreatment, hardship, persecution, and difficulties suffered for Christ. It’s clear that when I’m weak, I’m strong.
11. I have become a fool. You forced me to be one. You should have recommended me to others. Even if I’m nothing, I wasn’t inferior in any way to your super-apostles.
12. While I was among you I patiently did the signs, wonders, and miracles which prove that I’m an apostle.
13. How were you treated worse than the other churches, except that I didn’t bother you for help? Forgive me for this wrong!
14. I’m ready to visit you for a third time, and I won’t bother you for help. I don’t want your possessions. Instead, I want you. Children shouldn’t have to provide for their parents, but parents should provide for their children.
15. I will be very glad to spend whatever I have. I’ll even give myself for you. Do you love me less because I love you so much?
16. You agree, then, that I haven’t been a burden to you. Was I a clever person who trapped you by some trick?
17. Did I take advantage of you through any of the men I sent you?
18. I encouraged Titus to visit you, and I sent my friend with him. Did Titus take advantage of you? Didn’t we have the same motives and do things the same way?