Two reasons encourage the spirit of love in giving:
to follow the example of the Macedonians, who were generous despite their poverty (9:2); and
to avoid embarrassing Paul or themselves, as he had praised the Corinthians' generosity to the Macedonians (9:3–5).
To ensure the collection at Corinth is ready on time, Paul will send delegates (8:16–24) ahead to prepare the promised gift.