The transforming power of a generous life, practical ideas, inspiring stories. With praise from both Dave Ramsey and Mark Batterson, as well as a totally cool cover (complete with multi-colored polka dots!), this book had my attention as soon as I pulled it out of the box it arrived in.
The author tells many stories, but one statement really stood out to me. His grandfather wrote him a note when he was fourteen and it said, “Brad, Winston Churchill said you make a living by what you earn and a life by what you give. I thought this would be well worth remembering. Love, Gramps.” He goes on to talk about how “prophetic” that note actually was, and how his life changed over time to be less about having and more about giving. But what an incredible thing, to remember spending time with your grandpa (or with any family member!), who spent the time to make things (in the case of his grandpa, it was making loaves of bread together) intending to give them away to others who needed them, and who really taught you – in a practical way – about the power of a gift. That is an incredible legacy to leave behind, it really is!
Later in the book, he tells us that “Joy doesn’t come from filling your life with stuff. Joy comes from giving your life away.” There are many examples provided of ways to give more away, and to live a life of generosity instead of one that is ultimately about being selfish. Examples are given from the author’s life, and from stories submitted by other people. They are some really amazing stories of generosity, and well worth reading! Each section is pretty short, making this an easy book to read in chunks, and it would be a wonderful book to use in a small group. While there are no “discussion questions” for each chapter, there are definitely a lot of things you could talk about (and share about!) in a group, and listening to each other could only help more!
I would absolutely recommend this book to others, as one that really gives you great food for thought. It’s easy to read, it has multiple colors it in (which matters to some people – like me!), and it even includes a section at the back with pages for you to think about (and list out) things you like, and then answer questions about your history of giving. Extremely thought-provoking, and again – well worth the time it takes to read and complete!
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher, in exchange for my honest review. I was in no way required to write anything positive – the thoughts and opinions expressed here are completely my own.
Book Reviews by Krysta 