In 2 Cor 12, Paul speaks of his remarkable vision from God of being "caught up into the third heaven", but he is careful not to boast about this experience. Paul next describes his "thorn" which God placed in his body to "keep (him) from getting proud". Whatever it was that was keeping him humble also reminded him of his constant need for God. He pleaded with God to take away the burden, but God said "My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness". Paul then explains that he is "content" with his weaknesses, which allows the power of Christ to work through him. He says that "for when I am weak, then I am strong", meaning that he is actually much stronger when God is the power working in him rather than relying on his own minuscule strength. Next, Paul explains that all his efforts have been for the brethren, with a pure motive of love for them. He says that he will continue to give himself for their spiritual good, even though it seems that the more he loves them the less they love him. Finally Paul explains that he is saying all this as "Christ's servant" to them, and everything he is doing is all for their edification.