⁹ The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly^(A) to the Lord. David the king also rejoiced greatly.

⁷ Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give,^(A) not reluctantly or under compulsion,^(B) for God loves a cheerful giver.^{(C) 8} And God is able^(D) to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need,^(E) you will abound in every good work.

³ For I testify that they gave as much as they were able,^(A) and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own,

Thanks for Their Gifts

¹⁰ I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me.^(A) Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it.

¹¹ I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.^(A)

¹⁷ I know, my God, that you test the heart^(A) and are pleased with integrity. All these things I have given willingly and with honest intent. And now I have seen with joy how willingly your people who are here have given to you.^(B)

Timothy’s Encouraging Report

⁶ But Timothy^(A) has just now come to us from you^(B) and has brought good news about your faith and love.^(C) He has told us that you always have pleasant memories of us and that you long to see us, just as we also long to see you.^{(D) 7} Therefore, brothers and sisters, in all our distress and persecution we were encouraged about you because of your faith. ⁸ For now we really live, since you are standing firm^(E) in the Lord. ⁹ How can we thank God enough for you^(F) in return for all the joy we have in the presence of our God because of you?^(G)

Closing Appeal for Steadfastness and Unity

4 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for,^(A) my joy and crown, stand firm^(B) in the Lord in this way, dear friends!