“This was not as we had expected, but first they gave their own selves to the Lord, and to us through the will of God.”
2 Corinthians 8:5 (WEB)
Context Reading
3For according to their power, I testify, yes and beyond their power, they gave of their own accord, 4begging us with much entreaty to receive this grace and the fellowship in the service to the saints. 5This was not as we had expected, but first they gave their own selves to the Lord, and to us through the will of God. 6So we urged Titus, that as he had made a beginning before, so he would also complete in you this grace. 7But as you abound in everything — in faith, utterance, knowledge, all earnestness, and in your love to us — see that you also abound in this grace.