2 Corinthians 9:7

KJV

Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, [so let him give]; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

KJV (with Strong's)

Every man {G1538} according as {G2531} he purposeth {G4255} in his heart {G2588}, so let him give; not {G3361} grudgingly {G1537}{G3077}, or {G2228} of {G1537} necessity {G318}: for {G1063} God {G2316} loveth {G25} a cheerful {G2431} giver {G1395}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Each should give according to what he has decided in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

Berean Standard Bible

Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver.

American Standard Version

Let each man do according as he hath purposed in his heart: not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Corinthians 9:7 provides a profound theological foundation for Christian generosity, emphasizing that giving should be a deliberate, heartfelt decision rather than a reluctant obligation. Paul instructs believers to give according to what they have purposed within themselves, not out of sorrow or compulsion, but with joy and eagerness, for such an attitude in giving is deeply pleasing to God and draws His affection.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the culmination of Paul’s extensive teaching on the collection for the impoverished saints in Jerusalem, spanning [2 Corinthians 8](/2_corinthians/8 "2 Corinthians 8 - Paul's Teaching on Giving") and [2 Corinthians 9](/2_corinthians/9 "2 Corinthians 9 - Principles of Generous Giving"). Paul is not issuing a command but appealing to the Corinthians' willingness and love, encouraging them to complete a commitment they had made a year prior. He uses the example of the [Macedonian churches' extraordinary generosity](/2_corinthians/8-1-5 "2 Corinthians 8:1-5 - The Generosity of the Macedonian Churches"), who gave out of extreme poverty and "beyond their ability" ([2 Corinthians 8:3](/2_corinthians/8-3 "2 Corinthians 8:3 - Giving Beyond Ability")), as a model of Spirit-empowered giving. Verse 7 distills the essence of the attitude God desires from His people in all acts of giving.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The collection for the Jerusalem saints was a significant undertaking for Paul, symbolizing the unity between the Gentile and Jewish believers and providing tangible aid to the economically struggling mother church. Jerusalem had faced famine and hardship, and this collection was a practical demonstration of Christian solidarity and love, fulfilling a promise made at the [Jerusalem Council](/galatians/2-9-10 "Galatians 2:9-10 - The Jerusalem Council and the Poor"). In the Greco-Roman world, patronage and reciprocal gift-giving were common, but Paul redefines generosity through a distinctly Christian lens, emphasizing internal motivation and divine pleasure over social obligation or a desire for public honor.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching theme is **Christian Generosity**, rooted in grace and motivated by love, not legalism. Paul highlights the principle of **Intentional Giving**, where the act flows from a deliberate decision of the heart, contrasting it sharply with **Compulsory Giving** ("not grudgingly, or of necessity"). The passage also underscores **God's Reciprocity**, promising that God is able to make "all grace abound to you" ([2 Corinthians 9:8](/2_corinthians/9-8 "2 Corinthians 9:8 - God's Abundant Grace")) for those who give cheerfully. Ultimately, the passage elevates the **Attitude of the Giver** as paramount, revealing that God values the heart behind the gift more than the gift's monetary value, as seen in the concluding affirmation: "for God loveth a cheerful giver."

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **purposeth (Greek, _proairéomai'_):** From G4255, meaning "to choose for oneself before another thing (prefer), i.e. (by implication) to propose (intend)." This word signifies a deliberate, pre-meditated decision, not a spontaneous reaction or an impulsive act. It implies thoughtful consideration and a settled resolve of the will, indicating that Christian giving is an act of intentional discipleship.
* **grudgingly (Greek, _lýpē'_):** From G3077, meaning "sadness, grief, heaviness, sorrow." The KJV translates the phrase "ek lýpēs" (G1537 G3077) as "grudgingly," literally "out of sadness" or "out of grief." This refers to giving with reluctance, regret, or a sense of loss, as if the act of giving causes sorrow rather than joy. It stands in stark contrast to the desired cheerful attitude.
* **cheerful (Greek, _hilarós'_):** From G2431, meaning "propitious or merry ('hilarious'), i.e. prompt or willing." This is the root of our English word "hilarious," but in this context, it conveys deep inner joy, eagerness, and alacrity. It describes someone who gives readily, without hesitation, finding genuine pleasure and delight in the act of sharing.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Every man according as he purposeth in his heart":** This opening clause establishes the personal and internal nature of Christian giving. It emphasizes that each individual is responsible for determining their own contribution, and this determination must originate from a deliberate, thoughtful decision made within their innermost being—the "heart" (kardía, G2588), which in biblical thought is the seat of intellect, emotion, and will.
* **"so let him give;":** This is the direct imperative, flowing from the preceding clause. The giving should be a direct consequence and reflection of the internal purpose. It implies a voluntary act, not one imposed by external pressure or expectation.
* **"not grudgingly, or of necessity:":** This phrase provides a crucial negative instruction, defining what Christian giving is *not*. "Grudgingly" (ek lýpēs) means not out of sorrow, regret, or reluctance. "Of necessity" (ex anánkēs, G1537 G318) means not out of compulsion, obligation, or external pressure, such as a legalistic requirement or social expectation. These two conditions highlight the importance of freedom and willingness in the act of giving.
* **"for God loveth a cheerful giver.":** This concluding statement provides the powerful divine motivation and affirmation. The Greek word for "loveth" is _agapáō_ (G25), denoting a deep, unconditional, and self-sacrificial love. God's love is directed specifically towards the "cheerful giver" (_hilarós dótēs_, G2431 G1395), indicating that the attitude and heart behind the gift are profoundly pleasing to Him. This is not merely a preference but an expression of divine affection for those whose generosity mirrors His own character.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Contrast** is central, setting "grudgingly, or of necessity" against "a cheerful giver," highlighting the two opposing attitudes towards generosity. This stark opposition emphasizes the qualitative difference in giving that God values. There is also a strong element of **Emphasis** through the direct statement "for God loveth a cheerful giver." This declarative phrase functions as a powerful theological anchor, providing the ultimate reason and motivation for the desired attitude, elevating the act of giving beyond mere transaction to a relational delight for God. Furthermore, the use of "heart" (kardía) serves as a **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche**, representing the totality of a person's inner being—their will, emotions, and intellect—underscoring that true generosity originates from one's deepest convictions and not merely external compliance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly shapes our understanding of Christian stewardship and the nature of God. It reveals that God is not merely interested in the quantity of our gifts but in the quality of our hearts. The principle of cheerful giving aligns with the very character of God, who is the ultimate cheerful giver, freely bestowing grace and blessings upon humanity ([Romans 8:32](/romans/8-32 "Romans 8:32 - God Gives Freely")). Our giving, therefore, becomes an act of worship and a reflection of His generous nature, transforming a potential burden into a joyful expression of faith and love. It teaches us that true generosity is an overflow of a heart transformed by God's grace, finding delight in participating in His kingdom work.

* [Proverbs 11:25](/proverbs/11-25 "Proverbs 11:25 - The Generous Soul")
* [Acts 20:35](/acts/20-35 "Acts 20:35 - It is More Blessed to Give")
* [Philippians 4:18](/philippians/4-18 "Philippians 4:18 - A Fragrant Offering")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Second Corinthians 9:7 challenges believers to deeply examine their motives and attitudes in all forms of giving—whether it's financial contributions, time, talents, or even forgiveness. It shifts our focus from the external act to the internal disposition, reminding us that God values a joyful heart more than a large offering given reluctantly. This principle encourages us to cultivate a spirit of generosity that is proactive, intentional, and genuinely delighted in the act of sharing, rather than viewing giving as a burdensome obligation. When we give cheerfully, we not only honor God but also experience the profound joy and blessing that comes from participating in His kingdom purposes, knowing that such giving is a fragrant offering that pleases Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What does it mean for me to "purpose in my heart" before I give, and how can I practice this more intentionally in my life?**
* **In what areas of my life (finances, time, talents, forgiveness) do I find myself giving "grudgingly, or of necessity," and what steps can I take to cultivate a more cheerful attitude?**
* **How does understanding that "God loveth a cheerful giver" transform my perspective on generosity and my relationship with Him?**

### FAQ
**Does "cheerful giver" mean I always have to feel ecstatic when I give, even when it's difficult?**

Answer: The Greek word _hilarós_ (G2431) for "cheerful" implies a deep, inner willingness and eagerness, a promptness of spirit, rather than a superficial or boisterous feeling of "hilariousness." It's about the settled disposition of the heart—a desire to give freely and joyfully—even if the act itself requires sacrifice or discipline. It contrasts with giving out of sorrow or compulsion. Therefore, while you may not always feel "ecstatic," the core meaning is that your giving should be free from reluctance, regret, or a sense of being forced. It should stem from a heart that delights in God and His purposes, even when the circumstances are challenging, much like the [Macedonian churches who gave out of "extreme poverty" yet with "abundant joy"](/2_corinthians/8-2 "2 Corinthians 8:2 - Macedonian Joy in Poverty").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Second Corinthians 9:7 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the supreme example of the "cheerful giver." His entire life, culminating in His atoning sacrifice on the cross, was an act of profound, cheerful, and willing generosity. As [John 3:16](/john/3-16 "John 3:16 - God's Love and Giving") declares, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son," revealing divine love as the ultimate source of all giving. Christ "purposed in his heart" to lay down His life, not grudgingly or out of necessity, but with a willing spirit, knowing the joy set before Him ([Hebrews 12:2](/hebrews/12-2 "Hebrews 12:2 - Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Faith")). His giving of Himself was entirely voluntary, motivated by an immeasurable _agapē_ love for humanity ([Ephesians 5:2](/ephesians/5-2 "Ephesians 5:2 - Christ's Sacrificial Love")). Furthermore, it is through His grace that we are empowered to become cheerful givers ourselves, for "God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work" ([2 Corinthians 9:8](/2_corinthians/9-8 "2 Corinthians 9:8 - God's Abundant Grace")). Our cheerful giving, therefore, is not merely a moral virtue but a Spirit-empowered reflection of the generous heart of God, perfectly embodied in Christ, who gave Himself for us that we might live lives of abounding generosity.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Corinthians 8:12

For if there be first a willing mind, [it is] accepted according to that a man hath, [and] not according to that he hath not.

Acts 20:35

I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.

1 Chronicles 29:17

I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness. As for me, in the uprightness of mine heart I have willingly offered all these things: and now have I seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee.

Exodus 25:2

Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering.

Proverbs 11:25

¶ The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.

Proverbs 22:9

¶ He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.

Deuteronomy 15:7

If there be among you a poor man of one of thy brethren within any of thy gates in thy land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thine heart, nor shut thine hand from thy poor brother: