One Simple Act: Discovering the Power of Generosity

by Debbie Macomber

What if you, personally, could make the world a better place...by tomorrow?

Debbie Macomber knows the secret to doing exactly that! In a world that seems too often stingy and grudging, she has witnessed how one simple act of generosity can yield unforeseen miracles.

You are about to discover, through true stories, what happens when we commit intentional acts of generosity. Lives are changed in ways we never envisioned. Come with Debbie late one evening through the checkout line at the grocery store. Visit a Midwestern train station. Discover the link between a submarine, a few bread crumbs, and some minnows. Visit ancient Galilee as a young boy volunteers his fishes and loaves to Jesus only to see his meager gift multiplied many times over to feed five thousand. Listen in on a touching phone call with an elderly widow. You will stand amazed at what God accomplishes when we make ourselves available through simple acts of generosity.

This blend of true stories and motivating messages will delight and surprise you as you discover how giving the gifts of time, encouragement, hope, laughter, prayer, hospitality, service, and even forgiveness can have a lasting life-changing impact, not only on the recipient of such gifts but on the giver as well.

Debbie Macomber, through the power of story, invites us to live with open hands, offering who we are and what we have to God, to use in the lives of others. When we do so, lives--including our own--are changed in ways we couldn't have imagined. All it takes is one simple act.

Genres: Nonfiction, Inspirational, Christian, Spirituality, Self Help, Religion, Christian Living

224 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

About the author

Debbie Macomber is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers with more than 200 million copies of her books in print worldwide. In her novels, Macomber brings to life compelling relationships that embrace family and enduring friendships, uplifting her readers with stories of connection and hope. Macomber’s novels have spent over 1,000 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Fifteen of these novels hit the number one spot.

In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.

Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.

She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.

Reviews

[Sally Lindsay-briggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first glance, I rejected reading this but changed my mind later because it seemed very educational and spiritual. Once you peruse it, the novel is well written, rich in scriptures, very interesting, full of wonderful illustrations and the reader is inspired to help, give, be generous and receive blessings. There are chapters about the: art of listening, sharing the spirit of Christmas, the gift of care giving, donating the bounty of time, sharing faith stories, inspiring hope, believing the best of others, the bounty of open-handed giving, and giving God the last word in how to invest your life. The author has written a short but awesome treasure that you cherish and want to put into practice. You want to give bountifully and rely on God fully.

[Tee27 · Rating 5 out of 5]

The stories in this book caused me to cry several times. They're so inspirational and show the power of true altruism and forgiveness. The most poignant act of forgiveness was illustrated by a Christian woman who, along with her sister, was imprisoned in a German concentration camp for harboring Jews.

When she was released (her sister was executed), she went on to speak about the importance of forgivness and how "confessing ones sins is like throwing them into a lake that says, 'No fishing.'"

As she was speaking, a man approached her. A man whose face looked all too familiar, for he had been "one of the cruelest soldiers" in the camp where her sister was killed. Apparently moved by her message, he extended his hand and asked of her forgivenes, which (at first) she could not bring herself to do. So, she prayed silently to truly forgive him, and as she did so, she remembered how God had said to be forgiven, we must forgive. At this, she grasped his hand tightly and (through tears) said, "I forgive you, brother! With all my heart!"

I cannot think of many who have the capactity to forgive such as she did, but as this woman illustrated, it was the help of God and empathy that compelled her to give both herself and this man peace of mind through forgiveness.

This is only one of the stories that will remain emblazoned on my heart. Therefore, I look forward to sharing them with others, in hope to move them as I have been moved.

Thank you, Macomber!

[Cindy aka "The Book Fairy" · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute rereader each year!! Tremendous thoughts, wise words, heart stirring stories....

[Suzanne Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.)

[Spring Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book on how to become more generous. The first thing she suggests is that you show more gratitude by keeping a gratitude journal. The more good you see around you, the more you want to share with others. She also reminds us to thank God for ALL things, even the little things in our lives and the trials. A great feel-good book that makes you want to start doing all of her suggestions!

[Joann M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this!!

[Kendra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debbie Macomber is a very successful author of light hearted fiction books, which I have enjoyed for many years. Her stories are usually very positive and make you feel good by the end, which can be such a relief at times. I have often thought that I would love to meet her, and that she seemed like such a down to earth woman. After reading One Simple Act, I'm positive my initial feeling about her is true.

One Simple Act describes how being generous with your heart, actions, and treasure will fulfill you in a dramatic way. Debbie Macomber uses her daily devotional prayer time to lead her through life. She describes her use of a prayer and gratitude journal and provides suggestions for realigning your life by becoming a generous person. Macomber provides scientific evidence of the power of generosity, but it is her personal testimonial that is so compelling and drove me to continue reading. My favorite line is “you can't wring your hands and roll up your sleeves at the same time”. Meaning while many may stand around wringing their hands about the state of the world, truly generous people roll up their sleeves and quietly change it.

[Debby · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book! I love Debbie Macomber's fiction work, but this is truly a wonderful book on daily living in a spirit of generosity and love. She gives practical insight as to hospitality, love, forgiveness and more. Well written, practical, Biblical and encouraging!

I would recommend this book to anyone! What wonderful insight, stories and encouragement for daily living.

[Linda Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book goes way beyond simple generosity (giving of things and money). It includes selfless acts like care giving, hospitality, and listening. Many topics are covered.

There are seventeen chapters but my audiobook version divided the entire book into five sections, each about an hour in length. The audiobook reader, Beth DeVries, has a pleasant voice, so it was easy to listen to, and I learned a lot.

The author, famous fiction writer Debbie Macomber, seems like a wonderful person that anyone would want to know. She does go on a bit about the ways she's found to be generous (tea parties for the elderly, anyone?) and she also includes a lot of scripture that is edifying and motivational.

The problem I had with some of the examples given is that they don't fit into my lifestyle. They might work for you if you have plenty of money and a nice house to live in. I'm living in a travel trailer, so I'm not planning any tea parties here. Maybe something a bit more humble. She suggests an outdoor dinner. Well, that wouldn't work for me either, but I'm sure there are other ways to be generous and I'm praying about it.

It was nice to have this opportunity to get to know Debbie Macomber and the impact she's made on the world. FYI - I've never read one of her novels, but after reading this heartfelt book, I'm going to make a point of seeking them out.

[Sue Jackson · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this book as part of a book group and love the idea of giving generously. Unfortunately, I feel that the book was ok in theory but not written well. In my opinion, a lot of the book was the author patting herself on the back for good deeds she and her family had sone. There were examples of others acts of generosity but she didn't inspire others. She did include biblical quotes and referenced other authors with similar opinions on giving. Sadly, it was the mostly the same examples and same feeling that I could find in almost any daily inspirational quote. I've never ready any of her other books and expected that she could do so much more.

I did meet with the book group and many of the examples were pointed out of things that we could all do. Some of the examples in the book were ones we had all heard before. One person commented that we could read almost the exact same things in the guidepost or upper room books. I have to agree. The book was ok

[Donna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Debbie Macomber knows the secret to discovering the power of generosity. She writes of true stories and messages that will motivate you. You will discover how the gifts of time, encouragement, hope, laughter, prayer, hospitality, service and forgiveness can have a very huge impact on not only the recipient but of the giver as well.

We need to open our hearts and hands to God to use to help others as well as ourselves. This is a very moving book. We just need one simple act to show God how much we love him and need him in our lives and the lives of so many others. We can help if only in small ways as well as the big ones.

Thank you Debbie for this inspiring book.

[Loraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book focuses on various aspects of Christian generosity. Each chapter covers a different aspect of generosity and is filled with wonderful examples. At the end of each chapter, the author gives more suggestions for a variety of activities that stimulate ideas for that particular facet of generosity. I really liked the fact that Debbie emphasized so many little acts that can be easily accomplished as you develop the spirit of being a generous Christian.

[Marianne · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this book. It was very focused on bible verses and relating them to real-life experiences.

[Cathy Hooper · Rating 5 out of 5]

This little book is about so much more than the simple act of generosity. I listened to the audio version and found myself rewinding and listening to parts again to absorb them more deeply. Then when I finished I immediately ordered a print copy of the book to reference, highlight, and reread. Macomber encourages us to be generous, but not just with money and material goods. She gives examples to show the importance of being generous with our time, with praise, with encouragement, and in prayer for others. She shares scriptures,personal stories, anecdotes, and practical ideas. This is a book I will turn to again and again.

[Awbrey Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! Great quick read with practical tips for showing kindness, generosity, hospitality, and sharing the gospel.

[Nancy Byron · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give 6 stars, I would! What an inspiring, uplifting call-to-action in a world that desperately needs more acts of kindness and generosity. Everyone should read --and heed -- this book. It would make the world a much better place. Thank you, Debbie Macomber, for penning such an encouraging book of practical advice.

[DeeAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! I am a huge Debbie Macomber fan. I have probably read every book she’s written. This one really hit home for me. So inspirational and uplifting! I think it should be an every single library. In the world would be a much better place. If everybody read this book did some acts that come from this book. And I actually think it should be read at least once a year. Way to go Debbie Macomber.

[Carol · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this to fulfill 2 different challenges - a book in a genre I don’t typically read (inspirational; biblical; Christian non-fiction) and short story/essay collection). Some of the biblical quotes were familiar and much loved and many of the shared stories were thought provoking and timely for this time of year. Being a good person, stepping up to help others, listening, giving, loving … many good messages were there to read and reflect upon. I have never read any of Macomber’s fiction books. I’m sure if you enjoy Christian Fiction or inspirational nonfiction you would enjoy this collection. Just a so-so read for me.

[Marjean · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this book, it was a perfect December read and spiritually fed the Christmas season and the important giving the season is all about. The author focuses on several qualities--my favorites: gratitude, forgiveness, Believing the best, giving, listening, caregiving and time. She tells a personal story in each chapter and gives ideas how we can improve in each area.

Favorite quotes: "the antidote for anxiety is to pray with thanksgiving", "cast sins into the ocean and observe the 'no fishing' sign, "forgiveness is a discipline, it requires practice", if I feel someone doesn't deserve my gifts, ask myself if I deserve all that God's given me?", "money is to be used, not loved", ask in prayer, "what can I do?", "we are a culture with earbuds crammed into our ear canals, dancing to a tune no one else hears", how to spend time?-ask "which would best result in seeking God and loving my neighbor"

I will look for other titles by this author.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

In One Simple Act Debbie Macomber speaks of the power of generosity starting out with the lad mentioned in the Bible who was generous enough to share his 5 loaves and 2 fishes. The Lord blessed the meal and multiplied it to feed thousands. She shares instances of generosity, gratitude and hope and encourages fellow believers to be the church, and gives hints and suggestions as springboards for
our own ideas in ways to serve our neighbor. It's a good book on sanctification - at the lay level. Debbie's faith and joy in the Lord come through strongly.
Warning: She has quotes from The Message-aparaphrase, but does use other versions of the Bible as well that are actual translations. She quotes some suspect theologians like Rick Warren, and Kierkegaard, however on the positive side she also includes others such as CS Lewis.

[Phyllis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even before I had finished reading this book, I bought and gave away three copies to friends. I was so impressed with the message and Macomber's way of explaining it - how to be generous (going far beyond money) but also with your time, encouragement, hope, laughter, prayer, hospitality, service, and even forgiveness. A few years ago I read one of Macomber's novels, and it was so sappy I said I'd never read another of her books. But I came across this one at the library and was intrigued by its topic and style - sharing examples of generosity through the telling of true stories. This book is both encouraging and heartwarming.

[Colleen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book really challenged me. Although it is a relatively short book, I did take my time with it. I think that helped me get the most out of the read.

[Jennifer Mortt Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surrounded by dogs and cups of coffee I turned the last page of this sweet book. I had never read anything by her before, and I just happen upon it in the library when I was liberating my library card by paying my fine and returning a book.

This book is a faith base book about living generously. Her ideas of generosity include such things as gratitude, sharing, act of encouragement, the power of believing the best, forgiveness, listening, and so much more. It offers lots of words of wisdom and good ideas of how people can be more generous in their life and generosity really affects that only the receiver but the giver. We need more generous people in this world and we are called to be, these people

As this is a book in the Christian doctrine, it may not be for everybody. It was more faith based that I thought it would be, but for me not off putting. The author seems very sincere and I could see her kindness in the pages. I have not read her other books, she says this particular book is the only one like this that she has written. I do think I would enjoy reading her other books as well, she has a lightness to her writing. I kind of felt a little bit like I was in the Mitford series during some of this book with the sweet loving stories she tells about people’s generosity.

Indeed, we need more generosity in this world. I know that these kind of acts are done by people of all faiths and also no faith. Her book comes from a Christian perspective and really calls people to a life of kindness and generosity towards everyone. A good read, especially now.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was sent to me by my mother who is the queen of kindness herself. I read it (this year) when I was going through a particularly challenging time with a situation involving mental health. It helped me tremendously using the Bible's comforting passages and was able to get me focused off of my own situation and looking forward to how I can help others. I used the book as pure escape and God used the book to keep me sane. I never knew Debbie Macomber was such a devoted Christian. I am inspired by her work and would love to read more books of hers (this was my first). We all need more kindness in the world and this book gives many Biblical and practical examples how to do little things that mean so much to others.

[Keith McShan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a good book. Touching stories about receiving or requesting generosity from human beings. It felt like some of the writing was geared towards women, this book however would be beneficial for both genders. One Simple Act used both references to scientific studies and references to the bible to show the benefits of being generous. I listened to the audio book and it took me about a week to finish the book as I just listened to it on my daily commute. This is a good book to start off your drive into work.

[Jodi Geever · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read in preparation for Philosophy Cafe: Do acts of kindness have a motive? for February 2019.

Macomber offers a religious (Christian) underpinning for acts of kindness. She roots kindness, generosity, empathy, etc. back to faith, and suggests first grounding oneself in gratitude.

The book is divided into chapters focusing on these and similar virtues, with simple take away to-do lists at the end of each chapter focusing on the virtue that chapter discussed.

[Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another great Macomber book
My favorite parts:
-Forgiveness — Difficult Susie who cuts off family and then returns. When asked why he puts up with his sister, her brother responds: “ I forgot to be mad at her.“
-compassion — Football player who nearly scores for the other team. During half time, he cries like a baby and his coach starts him for the second half and he doesn’t want to go, but he does.

[Christine Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed it. There are great ideas for simple things one can do to make a difference to someone who is hurting or going through a rough time. Also some good reminders of how easy it is to be generous and how much it can mean to someone else.

I love a book that prompts me to take actions that get me outside of myself and make me think of others. This book did just that.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I started reading this book thinking it would be uplifting and inspiring and then....well, I had to get a notebook and started writing things down. A great read, truly inspirational with stories of "God nudges" and stories of looking back and seeing the hand of God in situations. I will be sharing this book for sure.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

I personally find non-fiction books the hardest to review. It is really not my place to critique a true story that happened to someone. The writing was well paced with each chapter a consistent length.

I liked how things were broken down in each chapter making it seem like I was reading a collection of short stories that flowed well together.