3. But I sent the brothers so our boasting about you in the matter would not prove empty, and so you would be prepared just as I said.
4. For if any Macedonians come with me and find you unprepared, we, not to mention you, would be embarrassed in that situation.
5. Therefore I considered it necessary to urge the brothers to go on ahead to you and arrange in advance the generous gift you promised, so that it will be ready as a gift and not as an extortion.
6. Remember this: The person who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and the person who sows generously will also reap generously.
7. Each person should do as he has decided in his heart — not reluctantly or out of necessity, for God loves a cheerful giver.
8. And God is able to make every grace overflow to you, so that in every way, always having everything you need, you may excel in every good work.
9. As it is written:He scattered; He gave to the poor;His righteousness endures forever.
10. Now the One who provides seed for the sower and bread for food will provide and multiply your seed and increase the harvest of your righteousness.
11. You will be enriched in every way for all generosity, which produces thanksgiving to God through us.