This November we’re going through a brand new sermon series at New Anthem called, “Generous.” The premise behind the series was birthed out of my personal bible study in 1 Timothy.

Timothy was a young, inexperienced pastor (sound familiar?) who had the luxury of being mentored by the seasoned church planter and writer, Paul. Paul wrote Timothy an encouraging letter to help him be a better leader for his church in Ephesus.

In 1 Timothy 6:17-19 Paul outlines why we should also be generous givers, and I love what he says in verse 19. He says, “[By being generous] they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.”

Man, that’s good! To have a life that is truly life? That sounds great to me. And I truthfully want that for you! Furthermore, according to Scripture, the simplest way to grab ahold of life that is truly life is to be generous. In fact, God goes so far as to tell us to test him when it comes to matters of generosity. See if you can out-give Me, God says.

I’d invite each of you to try this test with me. Lets each give joyfully, selflessly, willingly, thankfully, and intentionally and see what God does through us. “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” 2 Corinthians 9:6