Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
What does 2 Corinthians 9:7 mean?
Money bestowed in charity, may to the carnal mind seem thrown away, but when given from proper principles, it is seed sown, from which a valuable increase may be expected. It should be given carefully.
Key themes
Read with
Keep this verse inside 2 Corinthians 9:7-11 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on 2 Corinthians 9:7
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart ... - The main idea in this verse is, that the act of giving should be voluntary and cheerful. It should not seem to be extorted by the importunity of others 2 Corinthians 9:6 ; nor should it be given from urgent necessity, but it should be given as an offering of the heart. On this part of the verse we may remark: (1) That the heart is usually more concerned in the business of giving than the head.
Key words
- when a man gives to anyone
-
when a man gives to anyone. e. alms, let him do it , "with a cheerful heart".
- Every
-
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart,.
- according
-
Every man according as he purposeth in his heart,.
Context in 2 Corinthians 9
Show chapter context
2 Corinthians 9 belongs to the middle movement of the book, especially the section often described as the Jerusalem collection. Second Corinthians is Paul’s deepest letter on apostolic suffering, consolation, generosity, reconciliation, and the paradox of strength in weakness. Read this chapter with the wider themes of weakness, ministry, and reconciliation in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
Explore by topic
Bible verses about money and wealth
What Scripture teaches about riches, generosity, contentment, the dangers of greed, and the right use of material possessions.
What the Bible says about giving, tithing, sharing freely, and the blessedness of a generous heart.
A guided collection of passages on God’s love, neighbor-love, steadfast covenant love, and the shape of love in Christian life.
Bible verses about suffering and trials
Key passages on grief, endurance, lament, divine mystery, and the Christian claim that suffering is neither final nor meaningless.
Passages on strength from God, courage under pressure, endurance in weakness, and the difference between divine strength and self-confidence.