2 Corinthians 8:12

12 If you want to give, your gift will be accepted. It will be judged by what you have, not by what you do not have.

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 This is what I think you should do: Last year you were the first to want to give, and you were the first who gave.

11 So now finish the work you started. Then your "doing" will be equal to your "wanting to do." Give from what you have.

12 If you want to give, your gift will be accepted. It will be judged by what you have, not by what you do not have.

13 We do not want you to have troubles while other people are at ease, but we want everything to be equal.

14 At this time you have plenty. What you have can help others who are in need. Then later, when they have plenty, they can help you when you are in need, and all will be equal.