2 Corinthians 8:12

12 For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to what a man hath, and not according to what he hath 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 herein I give my advice, for this is expedient for you, who began earlier not only to do, but also to be in the forefront a year ago.

11 Now therefore perform the doing of it, that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have.

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

13 For I do not mean that other men should be eased and ye burdened,

14 but that there be an equality: that now at this time your abundance may supply their want, that their abundance may also supply your want, that there may be equality.