“But this I say, he which soweth sparingly, shall reap sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully, shall reap bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.” That is the suitable temper; and what an encouragement follows! “And God is able to make all grace abound towards you; that ye having always all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work.” It is also guaranteed by express precepts, promises, and examples all combined—“As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad: he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.” Then the fervour of ministerial affection breaks forth!—“Now he that ministereth seed to the sower, both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness; being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.” He next directs their attention to the beneficial result, both to others and to themselves, of the right exercise of this Christian beneficence. “For the administration of this service, not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God: while by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your processed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your _liberal distribution_ unto them and unto all men; and by their prayer for you, which long after you for the exceeding grace of God in you.” He could add nothing more, or greater, except in referring to the divine Fountain of all benevolence, and it’s matchless result. “Now thanks be to God for his unspeakable gift!”