How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.

For to their ability, I bear record, yea, and beyond their ability they were willing of themselves;

Both riches and honor come from you, and you reign over all; and in your hand is power and might; and in your hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.

But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly as this? for all things come from you, and of your own have we given you.

And Azariah the chief priest of the house of Zadok answered him, and said, Since the people began to bring the offerings into the house of the LORD, we have had enough to eat, and have plenty left: for the LORD has blessed his people; and that which is left is this great abundance.

Honor the LORD with your substance, and with the firstfruits of all your increase:

So shall your barns be filled with plenty, and your presses shall burst out with new wine.

Bring you all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house, and test me now in this, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast its fruit before the time in the field, said the LORD of hosts.

Charge them that are rich in this present age, that they be not haughty, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy;

That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to share;

How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.

Or he that exhorts, on exhortation: he that gives, let him do it in simplicity; he that rules, with diligence; he that shows mercy, with cheerfulness.

For the administration of this service not only supplies the need of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God;

You also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons, thanks may be given by many on our behalf.

For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many increase to the glory of God.

But thanks be to God, who put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.

And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and a testimony of your eagerness: