2 Corinthians 8:12

12 For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a man has, not according to what he has not.

2 Corinthians 8:12 Meaning and Commentary

2 Corinthians 8:12

For if there be first a willing mind
If what is done springs from a truly noble, generous spirit, a spirit of bountifulness and liberality; and is given cheerfully and freely, and according to a man's ability; the quantity matters not, whether it be more or less:

it is accepted;
both of God and man:

according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.
The widow's mite was as acceptable, and more so, than all the rich men cast into the treasury; a cup of cold water given to a prophet, in the name of a prophet, is taken notice of by God, and shall have its reward. The present sent by the Philippians to the Apostle Paul, and which perhaps was not very large, was "an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well pleasing to God", ( Philippians 4:18 ) .

2 Corinthians 8:12 In-Context

10 And in this matter I give my advice: it is best for you now to complete what a year ago you began not only to do but to desire,

11 so that your readiness in desiring it may be matched by your completing it out of what you have.

12 For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a man has, not according to what he has not.

13 I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened,

14 but that as a matter of equality your abundance at the present time should supply their want, so that their abundance may supply your want, that there may be equality.