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

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.

²⁹ All the Israelite men and women who were willing^(A) brought to the Lord freewill offerings^(B) for all the work the Lord through Moses had commanded them to do.

²¹ and everyone who was willing and whose heart moved them came and brought an offering to the Lord for the work on the tent of meeting, for all its service, and for the sacred garments. ²² All who were willing, men and women alike, came and brought gold jewelry of all kinds: brooches, earrings, rings and ornaments. They all presented their gold as a wave offering to the Lord.

⁵ From what you have, take an offering for the Lord. Everyone who is willing is to bring to the Lord an offering of gold, silver and bronze;

¹⁴ But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do would not seem forced^(A) but would be voluntary.

Generosity Encouraged

⁶ Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.^{(A) 7} Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give,^(B) not reluctantly or under compulsion,^(C) for God loves a cheerful giver.^(D)

¹¹ Now finish the work, so that your eager willingness^(A) to do it may be matched by your completion of it, according to your means. ¹² For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has,^(B) not according to what one does not have.

² On the first day of every week,^(A) each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.^(B)

¹⁷ If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward;^(A) if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me.^(B)