Discovering the Power of Generosity - One Simple Act

This book had many wonderful ideas to become a more generous person. Who doesn't appreciate a little more loving generosity!! The concept of being blessed by blessing others is one that everyone should incorporate into their lives. Overall--an EXCELLENT BOOK!!

It made me remember that big things can have their start in small kindnesses that are so easy to perform....they multiply and have unintended wonderful consequences. I intend to re-read it from time to time to keep myself inspired.

I have enjoyed many of Debbie Macomber's novels,but did not know she wrote non-fiction. This is the most inspiring book I have read in a long time. Debbie's faith shines through the pages. I liked it so much I ordered three copies to give to my friends, one was my pastor.

This book has impacted my life like no other! I assumed it was a collection of lovely little stories about good deeds. it was so much more! my life has been forever altered. Praise God for Debbie's obedience to write as God directs.

I'm sorry to say I have not read this book yet however I will do so soon, I have always enjoyed reading fiction by Debbie so I am sure I will enjoy this book too. When I am finished with it I will donate it to my church library.

This is a feel-good book. I was having a rough week full of stress and negativity coming at me from all different sides. Listening to Debbie Macomber's easy pleasant voice reminding me that every day is a privilege, service is a privilege, and that being generous with our time, our money, our thoughts, and our actions is a privilege, was exactly what I needed to hear to carry on. This book will make you want to find someone who badly needs your gifts, whether you sew, crochet, sing, play the piano, or balance checkbooks well. Every one of us has a talent, and someone somewhere needs exactly what we have. It's up to us to use the gifts that God gave us to serve Him and to serve those around us. It really truly makes you feel wonderful!

Debbie MaComber, best known for her fictional books, has written a wonderful non-fictional book about discovering the power of generosity. Using her gift as a story teller, Debbie weaves little stories throughout this book. Debbie talks about being generous in the acts of gratitude, sharing, encouragement, good deeds, forgiveness, seeing others through God's eyes, giving, listening, hospitality, hope, celebrating, caring for others, taking time for eternal things, prayer, sharing our faith stories, and serving.

Debbie describes how she has applied these different acts of generosity in her life, and how it has blessed her and those around her. She gives practical advice on how we can learn to be more generous in our lives. The gift of giving isn't just about monetary giving. I know that I walked away with more ideas on how our family can be more generous to others. Debbie concludes the book with study questions for each chapter and a list of her favorite charities.

"One Simple Act: Discovering the Power of Generosity" by Debbie Macomber is a completely wonderful book that uses scripture and stories to show the reader that a life of generosity is not only possible, but very powerful. I was touched more than once by the personal anecdotes shared by the author, examples of how to live in a generous way and value other human beings.

This book taught me that the little things really do matter. It gave me ideas of things to do to show others that they matter, as well. This book should be a must read for every person on the planet. If everyone read it and adopted even a small bit of what is written between these covers, the world would be a much better place.

Debbie Macomber’s nonfiction One Simple Act is a successful departure from what has been her career’s bread and butter, romance novels and women’s fiction.

Beginning with several anecdotes and a well-imagined expansion of Jesus feeding the five thousand, Macomber presents her thesis that a fully generous life boils down to nothing more than a series of simple, generous acts. She reflects on how Jesus fed the five thousand (men, not including women and children) by multiplying a boy’s simple offering of five loaves and two fish. “When we think of generosity, we too often think of grand gestures and sweeping acts of charity. But when Jesus gave us an example, He focused on just one simple act.”

Each chapter is full of inspiring anecdotes focusing on a specific genre of generosity, such as extending forgiveness (chapter five), listening (chapter eight), and practicing hospitality (chapter nine). At the end of each chapter is a list of suggested simple acts, such as “Don’t stress about your house. People count, not the state of your house” and “Listen to your friends and family. If you hear them longing for a day or two away, offer the gift of childcare as a present.” As the book develops, the focus widens to include not just simple acts but larger, more involved ways to be generous, like care giving, praying for others daily, and giving your spouse “a single rose on your first Christmas together, two on your second, and so on.” The book becomes not so much a series of stories highlighting the power of simple acts of generosity, but rather an encyclopedia of all the ways a person can be generous.

The last chapter “Giving God the Last Word” is a long series of Bible quotations that, more or less, have to do with generosity. Macomber couldn’t resist, however, taking the very last word for herself: “We each have a long way to go, but if we commit to just one simple act, miraculous things will happen. I can’t wait to see what the Lord does with our offering… When we see the ripple effect and experience the real power of generosity, our lives will be changed forever.”

Although the quality of each chapter is inconsistent, One Simple Act is an inspiring and helpful read for those who seek to live more generously.

Debbie Macomber usually writes gentle, uplifting fiction. While classified as a romance writer, she definitely doesn't write in the bodice-ripper style rather she writes in the slice-of-life style with romantic undertones. I typically enjoy reading her and always pick up the next Cedar Cove or Blossom Street book whenever it is published.

This is a totally different type of book, first of all because it is non-fiction. A relatively slim book (207 pages) is actually very content-rich. There are seventeen chapters starting out with "One: Fleas, Footsteps, and Checkout Lanes: The Springboard of Gratitude" and ending with "Seventeen: Giving God the Last Word". When I ordered the book I thought it would be something I would read straight through but found myself keeping it by my bedside and only reading a chapter or two each night before sleep - more of a daily devotional style of reading. The beginning of the book is jam packed with stories and sharings from people who display generosity on a regular basis and how it enriches their own lives as well as the people they reach out to. Most people think of the giving of money when they hear the word generosity but much of the book dedicates itself to small acts of kindness that cost little or nothing. A kind word or thoughtful gesture can go a long way toward making the world better for the giver and the receiver.

One note I would like to share: Each chapter opens with a biblical quote. The first thirteen or so chapters (while having a Christian focus) are more spiritual rather than Christian and could easily cross religious traditions. By Chapter 14, the book really takes a turn and becomes exclusively Christian with the final chapter being devoted to the role of Jesus and his role as savior. Initially, I thought that I would be able to recommend this book to my Jewish and Hindu friends, but by the time I finished I decided that would not be a good idea. Please be aware that I am not complaining, but merely sharing to the purchaser doesn't feel snookered. A very, very strong Christian focus by the end of the book that some readers would probably not like if their own religious beliefs don't involve Jesus.

Overall, a very thought provoking book that many would enjoy reading !

In today's busy selfish world, it is often easy to forget how to be generous and selfless. With so many people today focusing on the "me mentality", it seems as if it really is a "dog eat dog" world out there. In One Simple Act: Discovering the Power of Generosity, best-selling author Debbie Macomber helps the reader rediscover the "Power of Generosity", and she's not just talking about money and wordly goods, this book is more about giving of yourself and your time and whatever else you may have to offer. Debbie suggests that is all about being "intentional" in your giving.

This book is truly inspirational. Based on Biblical truths, One Simple Act: Discovering the Power of Generosity leads readers on a journey to becoming more generous, and helping those around them as we are intended to do. Through stories, helpful tips, Bible verse and the author's own experience, Debbie Macomber tells readers how to become a blessing in the lives of those around them and what secret blessings await for them in return.

Another reviewer called "One Simple Act: Discovering the Power of Generosity" by Debbie Macomber a "pay-it-forward book and I cannot agree more.

As a writer and attendee at numerous writers' conventions, I've had the opportunity to hear Ms. Macomber, a deeply motivational speaker, give talks, and I know she lives by her creed. She has a deep belief in God, a love for her fellow man, and a gift and desire for lending a helping hand to make the world a better place. Now in this non-fiction book she explains through a blend of true stories and motivating messages, how acts of simple generosity can work miracles.

Eleven chapters guide the reader through a series of inspiring steps and detail the results from simple acts of charity-gratitude, sharing, encouragement, good deeds, forgiveness, listening, inspiring hope and more.

I particularly liked the Christmas story about a pastor, his church and a crocheted tablecloth. I'd read it before and don't know if it is true or urban legend, but it brought tears to my eyes and a warmth in my heart even at this second reading. We need more stories like this to keep us grounded in what is really important. Ms. Macomber does just that and more. Brava, Debbie, for bringing a timely book in a time of spiritual need.

Two thumbs up for this one. Keep it by your bedside and read a chapter a night.

P.S.: Be sure to read the story about Ignace Paderewski and Herbert Hoover. (You never know from whence your help may come.)

I loved this book because it panned out just as it said it would-- and on a Biblical principle, and a spiritual gift that I want in my life: generosity. Macomber lays out the Scripture that supports various facets of generosity (eg., gratitude, sharing, encouragement, forgiveness-- 16 in all) and then proceeds to tell stories of how generosity changes lives. And Debbie Macomber is a master story weaver, and so motivation is the upshot for anyone reading this-- expect to be excited about 'going forth and multiplying' all the blessings you receive from reading this book. There are also lots of examples of projects that can be used by service groups or individuals looking to spread their generosity around the community or the world.

It's amazing how just the little things done for someone else has a huge impact in their lives. Debbie Macomber's book is such a wonderful book, that 5 stars is hardly enough gratitude that I can give it and the author.

Debbie uses Biblical scripture to emphasize her point in finding ways to help another. Or, if you have moved beyond the Bible, her selfless talk and examples in her book are fabulous.

Gratitude has a humongous affect on the Law of Attraction. It helps makes our dreams come true sooner. Yet, gratitude is only the beginning. It has been said that it is better to give than receive. And I agree! Selfless giving without concern of what's in it for us, will provide us gifts that may surprise us even more. But the greatest feelings that I get is when I give to someone who really needs it. The hugs and tears from their hearts makes me very warm inside. It makes me want to give more.

Read "One Simple Act". Give a copy to someone who is looking for ideas. Give it to your pastor. Help your pastor, priest, clergy and etc give examples to the people and we can achieve great results.

I've decided to donate my copy to my pastor. In hopes that he can come up with inspiring sermons for his congregation.

DISCOVERING THE POWER OF GENEROSITY is much more than it would appear from the title. The author relates heartwarming stories not only of generosity, but of kindness, faith, growth and spiritual deepening. Her point being that in giving something of yourself you will get far greater returns.

The book is filled with personal anecdotes and uplifting tales, as well as some light-handed personal advice for pursuing these goals yourself. She includes corresponding scripture that helps you realize the source of the message and pulls together the bible teachings and living a present day lifestyle of goodness.

Those of us who are trying to live our best life and remain positive in a largely negative world will find this rewarding since it showcases examples of the better side that life has to offer. I found myself inspired to continue to live as generously as possible, be it with time, talent, spirit or money, as she offers a reminder of the great rewards to all of us for doing so. To have the people around us filled with happiness and ourselves content that we are doing all that we were made for is a message we should continue to share.

If only everyone in the world had this wonderful perspective...for now, one reader at a time. Thank you, Ms. Macomber.

To me Debbie Macomber makes me come away with a good feeling for having read her books, and in this latest nonfiction of her works, she talks about how one doesn't necessarily have to be rich in order to be generous. She talked about Corrie ten Boom and her sister Betsie who were in the Ravensbruk concentration camp during WW2, and Betsie said she was grateful for the fleas that were so wretched and troublesome in their particular barracks. Come to find out, the fleas were the very reason the guards didn't come in there, making them able to read their bible, which was a big no no to have in the camp,but they were able to keep it because they didn't know about it; Another example was when the author talked about a cousin who had terminal cancer and how his daughter prayed for a healing and got a sign that he would be alright. Another story was about a man whose wife had Alzheimer's and he had to put her in a nursing home but still, he went to visit her every day in spite of the fact that she sometimes didn't recognize him; So according to Mrs Macomber, it isn't the fact of being rich that enables one to give; One can give of their time, energy etc and enrich another person's life. Great book.

Debbie Macomber is well-known for her best-selling fiction. However, in "One Simple Act," she has written a beautiful non-fiction offering with an important message. As she states, Macomber's goal in writing this "is to surprise you with the multiple benefits that come from small and large acts of generosity. . . intentional acts of generosity can open our lives to the very best that God has to offer." She offers powerful anecdotal evidence and Biblical quotes to support her thesis.

She emphasizes the importance of being thankful in all things, simple acts of sharing what we have, encouraging others, doing good deeds, forgiving others,
listening, offering hospitality, sending cards and letters, caregiving, giving of our time, praying for others, and sharing our faith. She offers concrete suggestions and offers much encouragement. None of these ideas are radically new, but we can all use the reminder. We all have so much to give!

"One Simple Act" is a wonderful book. The world would be such a better place if we all followed Macomber's advice.

"One Simple Act" is filled with stories of how generosity of time, talents, or resources has blessed either the recipient or the giver. I would have given it five stars if the stories had been "completed." There is one that is hugely touching of a woman whose son has run away from home who buys gloves for a homeless young man sitting outside in winter. We never hear what happens to this lady's son or to the young homeless man. Many of the stories are like this. They are good starts, but leave the reader feeling that more was in store. This is clearly a book by a Christian writer. She encourages keeping prayer journals as well as several other kinds to track your "generosity" progress. She cites statistics of how acts of generosity have blessed the giver at least as much as the recipient. She encourages encouragement, gratefulness, and spending time with important people. Overall, this was a pleasant read. I am sure you will find stories to encourage and motivate you in the pages of this book.

There are times when an author just catches the right sentiment. One Simple Act does just that! Debbie Macomber books have always been favorites of mine. I remained skeptical as I ordered this book though. In hindsight, I need not have worried.

This wonderful book is filled with inspiring short stories about the satisfaction brought by giving. Let me clarify. Giving is all encompassing. "By thought, word and deed," it becomes clear to the reader. What we do in our lives matters. Those small interactions at the grocery store, the airport, or even within our family have the power to fill our spirit with hope, joy, and love.

If you want an uplifting tome that will not take hours to enjoy, this book would be a good fit. The author's short stories are like snacks of hope and fulfillment without teary endings or belabored narrative. I am thankful it is now in my library for others to enjoy!

This was a really nice book by Debbie Macomber, not the usual novel though. This book is about the spirit of generosity and how you don't have to be wealthy to be generous.

Using scripture and short stories to illustrate her point, Macomber talks about many facets of generosity. Using stories from her own life, she talks about these different ways to be generous and how she's been blessed through them. She illustrated being generous in acts of gratitude, of sharing, of being encouraging, doing good deeds for others , forgiveness, seeing others through God's eyes, on giving, listening, hospitality, hope, celebrating, caring for others, in prayer, sharing our faith and serving.

The book ends with questions for study and a list of Macomber's favorite charities. This book is great and stands on it's own, but would also be excellent as a study for a small group.

I thought it was great for the holiday season. The book really brought home to me how many times we equate generosity with money, and how this is the pe

That's the question I found myself asking after reading this book. This book is full of stories that show generosity in action. We are allowed to see the impact of generosity and the downside of a lack of generosity. I was particularly struck by the story of how the author was greatly discouraged by a book editor with her first book (which ultimately turned out to be a best seller). The book contains many stories such as this. It also gives you a new way to look at generosity - through the prism of the ripple effects that it causes from person to person.

As a man reading the book, I received more than a couple of glances and several inquiries as to why I was reading a Debbie MacComber book. But that's ok. It gave me the opportunity to "be generous" and share a little bit with someone else, hopefully uplifting their day!

It's a worthy read.

Not having read any of Debbie Macomber's works before, I wasn't really sure what to expect. I am pleased that I ordered this book. Macomber shows us what it truly means to be generous: You don't have to be rich to be generous- you simply give what you have; and not always (or even usually) money. Using scripture, actual stories of generosity, and ideas on how you can be more generous, this almost reads as a daily devotional. Both inspiring and motivational, One Simple Act is a great way for us to look beyond ourselves (our ego), and into that of our spirit, by consciously focusing on our acts of kindness.

A lot of 'God's Word'.

Basically this book is about the Golden Rule. The author sites examples of acts of generosity and gratitude, both her experience, and the experiences of others. Simple things you can do for others that not only would improve their life, but yours as well.

For example she talks of a woman who was confronted by a man asking for money for food. (We've all experienced this.) The woman gives the man money and then her friend says 'Why did you give him money when you know he'll only by alcohol or drugs with it?' The woman responds saying that if she can bring a little joy into his life, then she should.

Admittedly I only got half-way through this book. Not being a Christian it got a little much for me. Sometimes she sounds like she's lecturing in church, although she never gives the impression that she is better than anyone else.

If you are interested in a Christian viewpoint on this subject, then by all means read this book. It is well written and easy to read.

Thank you.
MEF

"One Simple Act" is a positively lovely book. Author Debbie Macomber shares stories from her own life as well as the lives of others. She illustrates how being generous and giving to others can result in blessings far beyond what you might expect.

Best known for her romance novels, her sweet spirit and strong faith eminates from every page. If you've read the story of Macomber's struggle to publish her first book, you know she's the kind of person who doesn't give up. (And if you haven't heard the story, you can read it in her book Knit Together: Discover God's Pattern for Your Life) In "One Simple Act" Macomber exhorts us not to give up on each other. If you're looking for a book to encourage and uplift, this is it.

As soon as you turn to the back cover of the book and see Debbie Macomber's smiling face, you know you've picked up an inspirational, feel-good book.

Debbie's book is a collection of true stories that show simple acts of generosity. Each chapter has a different theme like The Mystery of Sharing, The Act of Encouragement, The Art of Listening, and The Practice of Hospitality.

Debbie is a wonderful story teller and weaves encouraging stories along with scriptures to encourage us to give, to love, to be generous, and to be a better person.

It's delightful reading, the kind that makes you stay up way too late to read just one more chapter.

Highly recommend.

Debbie reminds us that one act of generosity has an incredible ripple affect on people. She incorporates biblical passages about generosity and how that might be seen in everyday life by providing the reader with approximately 3 short essays per chapter that illustrates her point. Debbie provided various ways generosity could be demonstrated outside of the monetary means in which we feel it is mostly attached to. Each vignette gives me inspiration to try harder at being generous...what a great way to start the New Year!

Debbie's easy writing style, good humor, and uplifting content makes this book appropriate for all readers. I would give this book a 2 thumbs up!

I love this book and my family does as well - it's one that we read aloud and even the younger children "get it." The stories not only make you think about how your own acts can influence others, but also takes Christian passages and helps relate them in a new way. My kids were amazed that one of the stories (the boy in the Bible passage about the 5 loaves and 2 fish) was mirrored in a sermon at church! It made them aware of how everyone - young or not - can have a profound influence on other's lives. It also inspired me to start keeping a Gratitude Journal. Thank you, Ms. Macomber, for writing this gem!

Debbie Macomber is one of my wife's favorite writers. This book is lace with encouragement, suggestions, insights and a generous amount of love. The center element in this book is encouragement to be generous, and to heal and grow as a result of this generosity. A simple act of being generous gets so complicated when we cloud it with doubt, fear, worry and guilt. You'll find this book refreshing and an encourage to go grow spiritually and in love.

I am unfamiliar with Debbie Macomber's work, but I'm a great fan of decreasing the contention in today's world with simple gestures incorporated in daily life. Thank you notes, how you doin' calls, overtipping wonderful waitstaff, buying coffee for the person behind you in the Starbucks drive-up, it all adds up and returns back to the giver in multiples. This book was a sweet affirmation about the power of giving, had pleasing anecdotes, and a few good ideas. I now drive with something or other in my passenger seat to hand out the window to the next panhandler on the street corner (and I do not mean the snowman globe or scented soap that I got as Christmas gifts).

I'm not convinced an entire book was needed on the subject, but once started, it's a satisfying read.

One Simple Act: Discovering the Power of Generosity might be considered the gift that keeps on giving! Reading Debbie Macomber's work is always a delight, but this particular book is one destined to become a classic. Read it once, and it will touch your own life forever, bringing joy to the lives of others you know!

It's a great book for Christmas, but it will give you a sense of renewal and hope any time of year.

Do not miss this book!

Debbie Macomber is ABSOLUTELY the BEST!

Probably because I like Debbie Macomber's work, I thought this book was OK. Normally I would have been cynical about it. But it is really about making the world a better place by acts of kindness. She gives examples of true stories and things based on true stories that tell how being kind and doing for others can make things better for many. With her motivating messages you find out how by just being generous and giving time, encouragement and even forgiveness can help change someone's life, including your own. These aren't things that we don't know but the examples she gives do somewhat motivate you, especially at this holiday time of the year. The fact that she invites the reader to do this and offer it up to God may be a little too much for people who aren't into religion but I didn't feel like it was being pushed at you. Overall, I was pleasantly surprised I liked it as much as I did and came away feeling a little better about my neighbors and the world.

I enjoyed this book very much. What a good teaching tool on ideas of how to reach out to others. Show Kindness, Generosity and God's Love. I will be looking for more like this. If only more people would go around showing God's Love.

What a different world this would be if everyone read and tried to change their life to include some of the suggestions given by this author. Not only would each individual be changed, but everyone they came in contact with would also. What a generous spirit this author exposed in sharing these thought provoking, but simple acts, as a way to live life as God intended. Wonderful book

For anyone who feels helpless to make their mark on the world or who just needs a bit of cheering up, this is a lovely book that should be just the thing. It is a series of true short stories of generous acts.that changed lives. Very thought provoking and uplifting!

A great little read. Debbie MaComber is such a wonder heart felt writer. The book makes one think in many ways. If only.... I found many heartwarming ideas in this book, and many that are very easy to follow. I beleive we all could benefit from this book, if only we would try them.

Debbie Macomber is a great story teller and here she tells stories of real people, including herself, to inspire acts of generosity. I found this to be an encouraging guide to making generosity a way of life.

This is a nice little book. It has some very nice stories of inspiration. I've read other books of inspiration and while this is a nice book, written by one of my favorite authors, I didn't find it much different than some others.

Debbie Macomber has written a simple, down-to-Earth about place of giving in our lives. Full of anecdotes, suggestions, and quotations. Nothing too deep here, but a pleasant read for Christian women who are Debbie Macomber fans.

The concept of this book is excellent. Opposing stinginess by giving generously is great. But I'm unable to find the product through the link given, so I will refrain from writing a full review until the product is back in the store.

Although Debbie Macomber usually writes romance novels, this is a bit of a departure for her. This is not the type of book that you just sit down and read cover to cover. The anecdotes and stories she presents take a little more time to digest. This is in no way a negative statement about the book. It is a non-fiction book that is great reading by a great storyteller. Look forward to more of this type of writing from her.

A great little read. Debbie MaComber is such a wonder heart felt writer. The book makes one think in many ways. If only.... I found many heartwarming ideas in this book, and many that are very easy to follow. I beleive we all could benefit from this book, if only we would try them.

Debbie Macomber is a great story teller and here she tells stories of real people, including herself, to inspire acts of generosity. I found this to be an encouraging guide to making generosity a way of life.

This is a nice little book. It has some very nice stories of inspiration. I've read other books of inspiration and while this is a nice book, written by one of my favorite authors, I didn't find it much different than some others.

Debbie Macomber has written a simple, down-to-Earth about place of giving in our lives. Full of anecdotes, suggestions, and quotations. Nothing too deep here, but a pleasant read for Christian women who are Debbie Macomber fans.

The concept of this book is excellent. Opposing stinginess by giving generously is great. But I'm unable to find the product through the link given, so I will refrain from writing a full review until the product is back in the store.

This is a wonderful book that teaches the simple Christian values of compassion and generosity. My Bible Study group at church is reading it now as part of a book study and our Lenten services are based on this book.