1Now regarding this ministry to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you: 2For I know your eagerness, of which I boast to the Macedonians, saying that you in Achaia were ready a year ago; and your zeal has stirred up most of them. 3But I have sent the brethren, lest our boasting about you in this matter should be in vain; that, as I said, you may be ready: 4Lest if any from Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (to say nothing of you) should be put to shame by this confidence. 5Therefore, I thought it necessary to urge these brethren, that they would go on ahead to you, and arrange beforehand your generous gift, which you promised, that it might be ready, as a willing gift, and not as one grudgingly given. 6Now this I say, He who sows sparingly shall also reap sparingly; and he who sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully. 7Every man must do as he has decided in his heart; not grudgingly, or under compulsion: for God loves a cheerful giver. 8And God is able to make all grace abound to you; that you, always having enough in all things, may abound in every good work. 9As it is written, He has scattered abroad; he has given to the poor: his righteousness endures forever. 10Now he who provides seed to the sower and bread for food, will supply and multiply your seed for sowing, and increase the fruits of your righteousness; 11You will be enriched in everything, so you can be generous, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 12For the performance of this service not only supplies the wants of the saints, but also overflows in many thanksgivings to God. 13Because of the proof given by this service, they will glorify God because of your obedience to the gospel of Christ, which you profess, and for your liberal contribution to them, and to all; 14And in their prayers, their hearts will go out to you because of the surpassing grace of God in you. 15Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift.