2 Corinthians 8:5-15

5They did more than we had expected. First, they gave themselves to the Lord and to us, since this was God’s will.

6This led us to urge Titus to finish his work of God’s kindness among you in the same way as he had already started it.

7Indeed, the more your faith, your ability to speak, your knowledge, your dedication, and your love for us increase, the more we want you to participate in this work of God’s kindness.

8I’m not commanding you, but I’m testing how genuine your love is by pointing out the dedication of others.

9You know about the kindness of our Lord Jesus Christ. He was rich, yet for your sake he became poor in order to make you rich through his poverty.

10I’m giving you my opinion because it will be helpful to you. Last year you were not only willing ⌞to take a collection⌟ but had already started to do it.

11So finish what you began to do. Then your willingness will be matched by what you accomplish

12with whatever contributions you have. Since you are willing to do this, ⌞remember⌟ that people are accepted if they give what they are able to give. God doesn’t ask for what they don’t have.

13I don’t mean that others should have relief while you have hardship. Rather, it’s a matter of striking a balance.

14At the present time, your surplus fills their need so that their surplus may fill your need. In this way things balance out.

15This is what Scripture says: “Those who had gathered a lot didn’t have too much, and those who gathered a little didn’t have too little.”