¹⁰ And here is my judgment^(A) about what is best for you in this matter. Last year you were the first not only to give but also to have the desire to do so.^(B)

¹⁶ And do not forget to do good and to share with others,^(A) for with such sacrifices^(B) God is pleased.

¹⁸ Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds,^(A) and to be generous and willing to share.^{(B) 19} In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves^(C) as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of^(D) the life that is truly life.

² For I know your eagerness to help,^(A) and I have been boasting^(B) about it to the Macedonians, telling them that since last year^(C) you in Achaia^(D) were ready to give; and your enthusiasm has stirred most of them to action.

⁴⁰ In my judgment,^(A) she is happier if she stays as she is—and I think that I too have the Spirit of God.

Concerning the Unmarried

²⁵ Now about virgins: I have no command from the Lord,^(A) but I give a judgment as one who by the Lord’s mercy^(B) is trustworthy.

¹⁵ Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food.^{(A) 16} If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?^(B)

¹⁷ Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account.^(A)

⁸ I am not commanding you,^(A) but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others.