Paul told the Corinthians, “To boast is necessary, though indeed not expedient.” He admitted that sharing his spiritual experiences was not profitable for him, but he did so for the sake of others. Paul only spoke of “visions and revelations of the Lord” because some doubted his apostleship and there were foundational issues in the church. Our attitude should be the same: not seeking attention for spiritual experiences, but sharing only when truly necessary.

Paul did not share all his revelations. He wrote, “I know a man in Christ…caught up to the third heaven…” This was his own experience, yet he kept this experience private for fourteen years. Unlike many who quickly announce their spiritual experiences, Paul’s roots were deep; he kept profound things hidden and nurtured them privately.

Even when pressed for details about his experience in the third heaven, Paul refused to share, saying only that he heard unspeakable words not permitted to be repeated. Fourteen years passed and he still kept this revelation private, valuing spiritual depth over publicity.

The root is crucial. If we want Paul’s power and fruit, we must share his inner life and secret experiences. Many today publicize every spiritual experience instead of nurturing them privately. Without hidden roots, there can be no lasting growth. May God lead us into true spiritual depth.