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Paul starts out chapter eight from writing from Macedonia, hoping the news of the generosity of these churches would encourage the Corinthian believers and motivate them to solve their problems and unite in fellowship. During his third missionary journey, Paul had collected money for the impoverished believers in Jerusalem. The churches in Macedonia, Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea had given money even though they were poor and they gave more than Paul expected. Though they were poor, they were willing to sacrificially contribute to the church. God does not want gifts given grudgingly. Instead, he wants us to give as these churches did — out of dedication to Christ and love for our fellow believers.

2 Corinthians 8:1-2
And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. 2 In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.