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)

¹² For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has,^(A) not according to what one does not have.

³⁵ In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”

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)

² “Tell the Israelites to bring me an offering. You are to receive the offering for me from everyone whose heart prompts^(A) them to give.

⁷ If anyone is poor^(A) among your fellow Israelites in any of the towns of the land the Lord your God is giving you, do not be hardhearted or tightfisted^(B) toward them. ⁸ Rather, be openhanded^(C) and freely lend them whatever they need. ⁹ Be careful not to harbor this wicked thought: “The seventh year, the year for canceling debts,^(D) is near,” so that you do not show ill will^(E) toward the needy among your fellow Israelites and give them nothing. They may then appeal to the Lord against you, and you will be found guilty of sin.^{(F) 10} Give generously to them and do so without a grudging heart;^(G) then because of this the Lord your God will bless^(H) you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to. ¹¹ There will always be poor people^(I) in the land. Therefore I command you to be openhanded toward your fellow Israelites who are poor and needy in your land.^(J)

⁸ if it is to encourage, then give encouragement;^(A) if it is giving, then give generously;^(B) if it is to lead,^[a] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully.