Share this article:

2 Corinthians 12:1-10 ESV

I must go on boasting. Though there is nothing to be gained by it, I will go on to visions and revelations of the Lord. 2 I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows. 3 And I know that this man was caught up into paradise—whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows— 4 and he heard things that cannot be told, which man may not utter. 5 On behalf of this man I will boast, but on my own behalf I will not boast, except of my weaknesses— 6 though if I should wish to boast, I would not be a fool, for I would be speaking the truth; but I refrain from it, so that no one may think more of me than he sees in me or hears from me. 7 So to keep me from becoming conceited because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations,[a] a thorn was given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me, to keep me from becoming conceited. 8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Connect with Us:

July 8, 2025
The Staff at The Orchard Itasca shared the following testimony about how they have seen God work through the ministry of the Forest View Nursing and Rehab Center. We began this ministry last year and have set up quarterly visits to the facility. Each time, 15 people meet there at 2 pm. Some people just engage with those in the common areas, talking with them, praying with them. Others, including Pastor Ryan go door-to-door and visit with those who are in their rooms. We take gift bags each time to hand out to both residents and staff.
July 1, 2025
Pastor Shohei shared his testimony with the staff of The Orchard, and how he has seen God work through the ministry of the Welcome Desk. Every Saturday and Sunday, I stand by the Welcome Desk to greet new guests at our church. Over the past month, I’ve noticed more and more new faces attending. Since I’m always there, I can easily recognize who is new and make them feel welcome.
May 30, 2025
Matt shared his testimony with the members and attendees of The Orchard Arlington Heights, and how he has seen God work throughout his life. My name is Matt and I grew up here at this church. I accepted Jesus Christ into my heart on the first day of second grade but I never really thought more about Jesus until my sophomore year of high school when Pastor Brad gave me a book on theology. With that book I grew to understand more of who Jesus is and what he had done. Unfortunately, that only lasted until I went away to college.