1. I don't need to write to you about giving to God's people.
2. I know how much you want to help. I have been bragging about it to the people in Macedonia. I have been telling them that since last year you who live in Achaia were ready to give. You are so excited that it has stirred up most of them to take action.
3. But I am sending the brothers. Then our bragging about you in this matter will have a good reason. You will be ready, just as I said you would be.
4. Suppose people from Macedonia come with me and find out that you are not prepared. Then we, as well as you, would be ashamed of being so certain.
5. So I thought I should try to get the brothers to visit you ahead of time. They will finish the plans for the large gift you had promised. Then it will be ready as a gift that is freely given. It will not be given by force.
6. Here is something to remember. The one who plants only a little will gather only a little. And the one who plants a lot will gather a lot.
7. You should each give what you have decided in your heart to give. You shouldn't give if you don't want to. You shouldn't give because you are forced to. God loves a cheerful giver.