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The Grace Outpouring: Becoming a People of Blessing
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208 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2008
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
May 20, 2014
The stories in this book, especially at the beginning, made me long for what they have. By the end, I wasn't sure the result was what the authors intended. They kept saying how they wanted to connect people directly to God and get out of the way so God got the glory for what happened. Excellent!
Except, by the end, I felt like their retreat center was a unique and special place that I wished I could go to so I could meet God in a powerful way rather than feeling like I could meet God like that anywhere. I was left thinking how amazing being a part of that must be, not "glory to God! Look at the amazing things He's done!" So did the book really achieve what the authors set out to do?
Many of the chapters were about what's going on at their retreat center, so there was a chapter on miraculous physical healings, another on visions and manifestations, and so on. Woven between these were chapters that slowly described how the author and his wife came to run the center and how things developed over time. I found some parts confusing. Maybe a Charismatic christian would understand all of the "church speak" he uses, but I was left never quite certain what he meant by certain words or phrases or why he did things certain ways (like how he went about "praying" for healing).
So praise God for what He's doing at the retreat center and through the author's many projects. But the book only left me with longing...it didn't actually connect me into a closer, deeper relationship with God.
Except, by the end, I felt like their retreat center was a unique and special place that I wished I could go to so I could meet God in a powerful way rather than feeling like I could meet God like that anywhere. I was left thinking how amazing being a part of that must be, not "glory to God! Look at the amazing things He's done!" So did the book really achieve what the authors set out to do?
Many of the chapters were about what's going on at their retreat center, so there was a chapter on miraculous physical healings, another on visions and manifestations, and so on. Woven between these were chapters that slowly described how the author and his wife came to run the center and how things developed over time. I found some parts confusing. Maybe a Charismatic christian would understand all of the "church speak" he uses, but I was left never quite certain what he meant by certain words or phrases or why he did things certain ways (like how he went about "praying" for healing).
So praise God for what He's doing at the retreat center and through the author's many projects. But the book only left me with longing...it didn't actually connect me into a closer, deeper relationship with God.
February 26, 2017
This is mostly a story, with teaching and principles mixed in, about the things God is doing in a Retreat centre in Wales. There is a lot to think about and a lot to appreciate and be encouraged by in this book.
As with a lot of these types of stories, about the amazing things God is doing, I find myself reacting in usually two ways.
1) Excitement
Look at what God is up to! Look at the incredible things he is doing through normal people and prayer! What could he do in my location and in my heart? It makes me dream of what God could do and long to see Him move in mercy, power and love.
2) Restlessness
How come this isn't happening here? God, why aren't you doing these types of things? Where are our miracles and signs? I look at all the ways in which I don't see God working. Within that, I often miss the ways He is which are usually more subtle than what we see in these types of books. Yet still powerful and true. I become dissatisfied with ministry and forget that often the work of the Kingdom is slow and steady and requires patience, prayer, and presence over a long time
I liked this book. I think it's worth reading. For me, however, it's important to remember that God doesn't always work in these ways but I should be ready if He does.
As with a lot of these types of stories, about the amazing things God is doing, I find myself reacting in usually two ways.
1) Excitement
Look at what God is up to! Look at the incredible things he is doing through normal people and prayer! What could he do in my location and in my heart? It makes me dream of what God could do and long to see Him move in mercy, power and love.
2) Restlessness
How come this isn't happening here? God, why aren't you doing these types of things? Where are our miracles and signs? I look at all the ways in which I don't see God working. Within that, I often miss the ways He is which are usually more subtle than what we see in these types of books. Yet still powerful and true. I become dissatisfied with ministry and forget that often the work of the Kingdom is slow and steady and requires patience, prayer, and presence over a long time
I liked this book. I think it's worth reading. For me, however, it's important to remember that God doesn't always work in these ways but I should be ready if He does.
May 15, 2022
This book was a breath of fresh air. I truly am deeply encouraged, and the people I have shared with have been encouraged also. This book brought revelation about blessing that I have been praying for the understanding for for years. I feel like I’ve just touched the tip of the iceberg in much of what this book shared concerning. Jesus please help me to keep going deeper in prayer, blessing, etc.
April 1, 2017
An account of the Holy Spirit's work through a Christian retreat center in Wales. There are several stories of the Spirit's work and the power of prayer. Light on ecclesiology and holistic discipleship. Interesting thoughts on blessing both believers and not-yet-believer's in deliberate ways.
March 14, 2019
Basically an average bloke recounting the stories of the Holy Spirit doing his thing amongst the hillbillies of Wales. At the end he offers a theological reflection of wtf is going on. Authored in 2008, it is still a relevant smf encouraging read. Why can't the big H S do the weirdo things he did in the O T today? Sweet. I checked the ridiculously low prices of accommodation at the authors retreat centre, confirming this is an honest account, not advertising.
July 30, 2024
4.5 stars⭐️ Wow. Built my faith, stirred my heart, and made me want to go sit with Jesus. A great end to a book 😢.
March 29, 2024
Inspirational. It stirred my heart. I would read it again. I highly recommend it.
August 25, 2013
"The Grace Outpouring" is an true account by Ray Godwin of the adventures with God of a couple who left a frightfully nice house in the Chilterns to set up a centre for prayer in western Wales, called Ffald-y-Brenin. This is a readable book, mainly because of the variety of people whose stories are told-the healing events but also the local people. It also ties in with the concepts of Celtic Christianity, which only really came out on the second reading.
This is, like life, quite disorganised and is deeply imbedded in the local Cymri population and its life. While it will encourage prayer, the quiet,rambling tone which reflects accurately the spiritual approach will frustrate some North American readers who need quick answers(it is distributed through David C.Cook).
This isn't for everyone I know, but those that like it will like it a lot. Even the curious who want to know how praying for people feels and works. without wanting to investigate the 'religious stuff' behind it will enjoy this book.
This is, like life, quite disorganised and is deeply imbedded in the local Cymri population and its life. While it will encourage prayer, the quiet,rambling tone which reflects accurately the spiritual approach will frustrate some North American readers who need quick answers(it is distributed through David C.Cook).
This isn't for everyone I know, but those that like it will like it a lot. Even the curious who want to know how praying for people feels and works. without wanting to investigate the 'religious stuff' behind it will enjoy this book.
June 6, 2017
The story of Roy and Daphne Godwin’s reluctant call to Ffaldy-y-Brenin in West Wales, a retreat centre that has drawn thousands to find the reality of God. A quite amazing and inspiring story of a “thin” place, that is a place where people find heaven near. A very encouraging story challenging us to just let God be God. I was somewhat uncomfortable with some of the manifestations of God’s presence which reminded me of “The Toronto Blessing”. However, I sense that Roy and his wife are not into manipulation but a recovery of the Welsh Revival and a re-discovery of ancient, evangelical Celtic faith that flourished here well over a millennium ago. The Celtic faith of Patrick and those who followed him was the genuine article. I have great respect for a “hands off” approach to letting God be God and do with us what He wants.
August 23, 2016
'It may sound like nonsense, but I think it's possible to be very clear about what God is doing and slightly confused at the same time'
Not nonsense at all. This pretty much summed up my feelings while reading this book about the Fflad-y-Brenin Christian retreat centre in Wales. Don't get me wrong, is a good read- compelling and challenging, and I did adapt how I pray because of it. I really wanted to love it because it was bought as a gift, but sadly I couldn't open my mind wide enough within my own little sceptic tank.
Not nonsense at all. This pretty much summed up my feelings while reading this book about the Fflad-y-Brenin Christian retreat centre in Wales. Don't get me wrong, is a good read- compelling and challenging, and I did adapt how I pray because of it. I really wanted to love it because it was bought as a gift, but sadly I couldn't open my mind wide enough within my own little sceptic tank.
September 18, 2017
This book has completely changed the way I pray, and is changing the way I view others. It has also left me with a sense of excitement and anticipation, a feeling that if I move forwards something great will happen!
I don't know what, I don't know how, and I don't know who to. I don't even know what I have to do to move forwards! But I do have a feeling that God wants me to consolidate what He has taught me through this book, listen for Him to speak to me and prepare me, and finish things He has set me to do already. Then we shall see what follows my obedience!
I don't know what, I don't know how, and I don't know who to. I don't even know what I have to do to move forwards! But I do have a feeling that God wants me to consolidate what He has taught me through this book, listen for Him to speak to me and prepare me, and finish things He has set me to do already. Then we shall see what follows my obedience!
December 22, 2020
Amazing Book
This book is simple, easy to read, and so faith-building. The more I read the more I wanted to sit down and have a coffee with the author. His humility and desire to see God move drops through the pages of this book! It’s quite the story!
This book is simple, easy to read, and so faith-building. The more I read the more I wanted to sit down and have a coffee with the author. His humility and desire to see God move drops through the pages of this book! It’s quite the story!
September 18, 2024
In God is life [John 1:4] and that life is experienced living in his presence. The testimonies - healings, prophecy, glory revealed, etc. — in this book lead the believer to go deeper into the powerful, personal presence of God and awaken the unbeliever to the reality of a powerful, personal God.
Favorite Quotes:
* “To live a life for God involves loving Jesus and desiring his presence above all things and then pouring out love to the least and last, the lost and lonely, speaking for the voiceless, clothing the naked, feeding the hungry, declaring good news. and being good news to the world around—all from the overflow of time in his presence.”
* “We are seeking his face, not his manifestations.”
* “A new resolve had entered my life. Instead of talking about him and preaching about him and evangelizing about him and being a pastor for him, I wanted to know God. And now that's my heart: 19 know him and to know him more. Not to know more about him, but to know him more. Everything else follows as an overflow of that relationship. When the major passion of my heart changed from mission to simply knowing him, the mission activity then began to flow out of the knowing!”
* “Our job was to go along with what the Holy Spirit was doing and to continue to bless what he was doing and respond to it.”
* “Somehow we release something here on earth when we're acting in unison with the cry of heaven. The kingdom is released when there's an agreement between heaven and earth. His will can be done on earth, just as it is in heaven.”
Favorite Quotes:
* “To live a life for God involves loving Jesus and desiring his presence above all things and then pouring out love to the least and last, the lost and lonely, speaking for the voiceless, clothing the naked, feeding the hungry, declaring good news. and being good news to the world around—all from the overflow of time in his presence.”
* “We are seeking his face, not his manifestations.”
* “A new resolve had entered my life. Instead of talking about him and preaching about him and evangelizing about him and being a pastor for him, I wanted to know God. And now that's my heart: 19 know him and to know him more. Not to know more about him, but to know him more. Everything else follows as an overflow of that relationship. When the major passion of my heart changed from mission to simply knowing him, the mission activity then began to flow out of the knowing!”
* “Our job was to go along with what the Holy Spirit was doing and to continue to bless what he was doing and respond to it.”
* “Somehow we release something here on earth when we're acting in unison with the cry of heaven. The kingdom is released when there's an agreement between heaven and earth. His will can be done on earth, just as it is in heaven.”
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August 7, 20252025-08-07
Review 2025.06.008
Reviewers Note: It is the middle of 2025 and I am not doing a good job of keeping up with this desired goal of mine to write book reviews. I do not want to lower my expectations but I am going to so that I can catch up. This will mean short reviews on the books I read.
The Grace Outpouring by Roy Godwin
223 Pages
Someone recommended this book to me so I went to add it to my wish list but Amazon told me that I already owned it. A few months prior to the recommendation I had moved a lot of books into my “Never Read” collection. I had mainly selected books that I have had for a decade or more and not read so it had little to do with the quality of the books.
Since I owned it, I moved it to the top of my list (this person rarely recommends books so I knew it was of high quality for me). I cried throughout the book. It was so good. I desire this kind of movement of the Spirit in my city and region.
One of the big points in the book is about blessing your community with your prayers so I took a few steps to do just that in my community. I have not seen with my eyes any specific answers to these blessing prayers but I trust Father is working.
This book was very encouraging and I recommend it to Christians who are seeking more of the Spirit.
Review 2025.06.008
Reviewers Note: It is the middle of 2025 and I am not doing a good job of keeping up with this desired goal of mine to write book reviews. I do not want to lower my expectations but I am going to so that I can catch up. This will mean short reviews on the books I read.
The Grace Outpouring by Roy Godwin
223 Pages
Someone recommended this book to me so I went to add it to my wish list but Amazon told me that I already owned it. A few months prior to the recommendation I had moved a lot of books into my “Never Read” collection. I had mainly selected books that I have had for a decade or more and not read so it had little to do with the quality of the books.
Since I owned it, I moved it to the top of my list (this person rarely recommends books so I knew it was of high quality for me). I cried throughout the book. It was so good. I desire this kind of movement of the Spirit in my city and region.
One of the big points in the book is about blessing your community with your prayers so I took a few steps to do just that in my community. I have not seen with my eyes any specific answers to these blessing prayers but I trust Father is working.
This book was very encouraging and I recommend it to Christians who are seeking more of the Spirit.
June 19, 2017
This book took me nearly a year to read, mainly because I think I wasn't ready to receive the messages. I loved the book when I finally devoted my time to it and was enthusiastic to return to it each day.
It is about a retreat run in Wales that tells of how the manager and his wife Debbie were called to the place by God even though he felt he was not worthy. Since working there, he describes how people have found faith, received Gods blessings, hearings, and most of all his unrelenting love.
I must admit that I was a little disappointed that the title is kind of deceiving, but now that I have read it, I don't really care. It has opened my eyes to so much about Christ and although I wish it could help me be someone who can use my love for Christ to make others happy, I am pleased with the message it gives to the possibilities that Gods love can bring.
I was mostly pleased to know that I am not the only one whom has been moved to tears when talking about or thinking of the lord, Jesus's suffering, and how he suffered for me. I thought I was the only one. Whilst I am not at a place where I feel I can show my deep love for Christ publicly, I think that this book can help in a subtle way.
It is about a retreat run in Wales that tells of how the manager and his wife Debbie were called to the place by God even though he felt he was not worthy. Since working there, he describes how people have found faith, received Gods blessings, hearings, and most of all his unrelenting love.
I must admit that I was a little disappointed that the title is kind of deceiving, but now that I have read it, I don't really care. It has opened my eyes to so much about Christ and although I wish it could help me be someone who can use my love for Christ to make others happy, I am pleased with the message it gives to the possibilities that Gods love can bring.
I was mostly pleased to know that I am not the only one whom has been moved to tears when talking about or thinking of the lord, Jesus's suffering, and how he suffered for me. I thought I was the only one. Whilst I am not at a place where I feel I can show my deep love for Christ publicly, I think that this book can help in a subtle way.
September 15, 2018
This book was brought for me by a christian friend, at the time i was going through a tough time, and he said to read this book it will bless you and renew you. He was so right!
This book is a about the blessing that the Lord has out poured in Ffald-y-brenin is a retreat house sitated in a place where Brynach, a celtic Monk had established a place of prayer fifteen hundred years ago.
A very inspiring book, telling the story of how people, often without any religious faith have been impacted by the presence of God in a place steeped in Christian history.
Today, Ray Godwin and his wife are leading a community of prayer that seeks to bless the local community and visitors with a living encounter with God.
This book changed who i was and brought me out of the tough time i was going through, reading through the encounters in this book had me laughing, cry and waiting in anticipation on the Holy Spirit to see what he was going to do next.
This book is a about the blessing that the Lord has out poured in Ffald-y-brenin is a retreat house sitated in a place where Brynach, a celtic Monk had established a place of prayer fifteen hundred years ago.
A very inspiring book, telling the story of how people, often without any religious faith have been impacted by the presence of God in a place steeped in Christian history.
Today, Ray Godwin and his wife are leading a community of prayer that seeks to bless the local community and visitors with a living encounter with God.
This book changed who i was and brought me out of the tough time i was going through, reading through the encounters in this book had me laughing, cry and waiting in anticipation on the Holy Spirit to see what he was going to do next.
February 23, 2023
"What we must have is his presence."
"I'm not habitually going to pass judgment on sinners as my first response to them."
"God cares for the whole person, and the gospel, the good news, is for the whole person. We have sometimes narrowed the gospel to a clear theological definition of sin and forgiveness, thereby robbing it of its breadth, power, and life."
This book stretched me to recognize that God works deeply and widely outside my ecclesiological tradition. It's easy to read as long as you don't worry too much about chronology. Just imagine sitting down with someone as they tell you the story of their life. It won't necessarily flow in order.
As a Christ-follower, I found this book very encouraging. Most significantly, I want to begin with blessing others, never with judging/condeming.
"I'm not habitually going to pass judgment on sinners as my first response to them."
"God cares for the whole person, and the gospel, the good news, is for the whole person. We have sometimes narrowed the gospel to a clear theological definition of sin and forgiveness, thereby robbing it of its breadth, power, and life."
This book stretched me to recognize that God works deeply and widely outside my ecclesiological tradition. It's easy to read as long as you don't worry too much about chronology. Just imagine sitting down with someone as they tell you the story of their life. It won't necessarily flow in order.
As a Christ-follower, I found this book very encouraging. Most significantly, I want to begin with blessing others, never with judging/condeming.
July 25, 2021
This book is incredible! I highly highly recommend this book for anyone who loves Jesus and wants to get into a habit of prayer!! It is so encouraging, and I’ve learned and grown so much through it. I would recommend reading this book with a group of friends and having discussions (whether the questions they provide in the book or your own) and PRACTICING together the stuff in the book and praying together - it makes such a difference!!
There’s a quote near the end of the book that pretty much sums up my reading of this book: “There was a momentary lull as our chins fell on the table.” It’s true! Your chin will fall on the table over and over again reading this book and seeing how God moves!
There’s a quote near the end of the book that pretty much sums up my reading of this book: “There was a momentary lull as our chins fell on the table.” It’s true! Your chin will fall on the table over and over again reading this book and seeing how God moves!
August 3, 2024
I loved every page of this book. Story after story of the presence of God changing lives. What’s not to love? I had a hard time putting it down. It was such an easy read. I was very new to experiencing the supernatural when I read it as part of a course on spiritual authority in prayer. This book was my gateway. It challenged my thoughts about who God is and what He is capable of and stirred me to desire more of Him. I just love how the Lord uniquely encountered each person exactly where they were. Regardless of how they came in, they were completely different when they left. His presence changes everything!
September 8, 2025
Unique, inspiring and thought provoking. I read this in 24 hours and this has made me think more than most books this year. At times I was a little uncomfortable (not a bad thing imo) and I was unsure of certain aspects/activities but I think you shouldn’t believe all you read.
Wasn’t massively a fan of the links to the C of E and Rowan Williamson but that’s a matter of taste/ personal issue.
I hope to visit one day and in terms of prayer & my walk with God there’s lots for me to think about/act on.
Recommend. 100%
Wasn’t massively a fan of the links to the C of E and Rowan Williamson but that’s a matter of taste/ personal issue.
I hope to visit one day and in terms of prayer & my walk with God there’s lots for me to think about/act on.
Recommend. 100%
December 30, 2019
This was a wonderful book that brought encouragement and challenge.
The stories are inspiring, and the wrestling with following God and the joy that it ultimately brings was so inspiring. This is a delightful and must read about God breaking into our lives. The temptation will be to try and copy the ideas in the book to manipulate God, rather than to find a place of surrender and allow God to do with us what H will.
The stories are inspiring, and the wrestling with following God and the joy that it ultimately brings was so inspiring. This is a delightful and must read about God breaking into our lives. The temptation will be to try and copy the ideas in the book to manipulate God, rather than to find a place of surrender and allow God to do with us what H will.
December 11, 2020
Perhaps 3.5. This is a mixed book. Parts are inspiring to a heady degree. Parts are down-to-earth and useful. Other parts, detailing the successes experienced at the retreat centre are just a little too much.
The good parts challenge the reader's thinking and later offer some practical suggestions. For this reason I would recommend this book to anyone tempted to read it.
Basically it is a book about Christian renewal and as do many of such books do, it contains many stories of life changes.
The good parts challenge the reader's thinking and later offer some practical suggestions. For this reason I would recommend this book to anyone tempted to read it.
Basically it is a book about Christian renewal and as do many of such books do, it contains many stories of life changes.
January 19, 2018
This book is written for Christians yearning for the experience of authentic Christian living and to see how God can do great things in us and through us as we come closer to Him in prayer and living His word. The book explores the emergence of the house of prayer in Ffald-y-Brenin in Wales. A select target audience perhaps but for anyone searching for meaning to life I do recommend it.
August 10, 2019
This is a great book! It is easy to read and understand. It is an inspiring book, written about faith and blessing and the outpouring of God's grace. The book is honest and strips away the veneer of independence that we carry with us. It is a book I would rate amongst the top very few that I will go back to time and time again.
April 12, 2020
The Power of Blessing and Grace
This book offers hope and encouragement that as we turn our focus to God in prayer we can be a part of His release of blessing to our land. Our part is to agree with Him by releasing blessing and being willing to be a blessing to those around us. Filled with wisdom and insight.
This book offers hope and encouragement that as we turn our focus to God in prayer we can be a part of His release of blessing to our land. Our part is to agree with Him by releasing blessing and being willing to be a blessing to those around us. Filled with wisdom and insight.
May 31, 2020
Easy read with lots of stories about God doing cool stuff and changing lives in Wales of all places.
Emphasis on 'grace first ethos' and the blessing from numbers that is currently doing the rounds. A challenge to listen to God and do what he says and see what happens.
Also I now want to go to ffald y brenin and try and learn how to pronounce it.
Emphasis on 'grace first ethos' and the blessing from numbers that is currently doing the rounds. A challenge to listen to God and do what he says and see what happens.
Also I now want to go to ffald y brenin and try and learn how to pronounce it.
September 29, 2025
Traveling through Europe a few years ago with a small team of friends and co-directors, I was told about this book three times. Whatever! Upon arriving home, a close friend calls me to find out how the trip was and if I had heard of this book. WHAT! Ok, off I went to Amazon to add this to my bookshelf. I highly recommend that you consider reading this book.
November 20, 2025
NO WORDS!
This book has left me speechless. It has crushed me in a way that I believe I will never be the same.
This is what I have been called to do and have shied away from it for long.
Although I did not go to Fflad y Brenin (spelling is probably wrong) I believe it came to me right in my quiet chair.
This book has left me speechless. It has crushed me in a way that I believe I will never be the same.
This is what I have been called to do and have shied away from it for long.
Although I did not go to Fflad y Brenin (spelling is probably wrong) I believe it came to me right in my quiet chair.
January 6, 2019
Amazing, engaging stories about the work of God and his life-changing presence. A good book written to engage and equip people to do similar things. Roy Godwin is really down to earth, and tells the stories in a very authentic way.
March 15, 2021
This was one of the most inspirational and captivating books I've ever read, and gives one renewed impetus for a devoted life of prayer, as well as seeking and living in His presence. I've enjoyed this book so much that I've started the sequel by the same author.
And yes, I did start this one day and finish it the next!
And yes, I did start this one day and finish it the next!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews