2 Corinthians 12:9

And he said unto me Jesus Christ said it, "but howthe answer from Christ was received, whether through an inner voice or by means of a vision, is entirely unknown to us." Meyer.

My grace is sufficient for thee "Gratia mea, id est, favor ac benevolentia mea qua tibi volo benefacere," Estius, which is the case with every one who is in covenant with Christ. The meaning is -Trust all to me. I will never fail thee nor forsake thee. Even that which thou feelest to be a hindrance will be overruled into a source of strength." Thiswas the answer; the thorn was not taken away, but strength was given to bear it.

my strength is made perfect in weakness Rather, power. The word is the same as that rendered powerbelow. This is a paradox very common with St Paul. See ch. 2 Corinthians 4:7; 2Co 4:10, 2 Corinthians 13:4. Also 1 Corinthians 1:21-30; 1 Corinthians 2:1-4; Hebrews 2:10. The extraordinary results which God has worked in all ages through means apparently most insufficient are the best commentary on these words, and the best answer to despondent thoughts, when men are weighed down with the sense of their own insufficiency. Many MSS. and editors follow the Vulgate here, omitting the word my, and render for strength is perfected in weakness. So Wiclif, for vertu is perfigtly made in infirmity, "We learn to regard the Apostle not as sustained by a naturally indomitable strength of mind and body, but as doing what he did by an habitual struggle against his constitutional weakness." Stanley.

Most gladly therefore will I rather glory Better, boast. This intimation from our Lord gives St Paul an additional reason why he should boast in his infirmities. When compared with the results of his labours they furnish the most decisive proof (cf. ch. 2 Corinthians 4:7, and 1 Corinthians 2:5) that the work he has been doing is of God.

that the power of Christ may rest upon me Rather, tabernacle upon me. Cf. John 1:14. The five other versions render dwell in me. The true meaning combines the two translations, -come down upon, and dwell in me." St Paul would have us understand that if he boasted of his own powers, he could not expect to be endowed with power from on high, but that if he gave God all the glory by laying stress on his infirmities, he might hope that Christ would dwell and work in him.