Encouragement to Give Generously

8 We want you to know, brothers,^[a] about the grace of God that has been ^(A)given among the churches of Macedonia, ² for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and ^(B)their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. ³ For they gave ^(C)according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, ⁴ begging us earnestly ^(D)for the favor^[b] of taking part in ^(E)the relief of the saints— ⁵ and this, not as we expected, but they ^(F)gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.

⁷ But as ^(A)you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you^[a]—^(B)see that you excel in this act of grace also.

¹⁴ your abundance at the present time should supply ^(A)their need, so that their abundance may supply your need, that there may be fairness.

⁷ Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, ^(A)not reluctantly or under compulsion, for ^(B)God loves a cheerful giver. ⁸ And ^(C)God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency^[a] in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.