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Doing Good Is Simple: Making a Difference Right Where You Are
What if you could become a powerful force for good in the world without moving overseas, burdening your overwhelmed family, or giving up the comforts of modern life? Chris Marlow, founder of the global advocacy organization Help One Now, once felt paralyzed in the face of global problems. They seemed too numerous, too complicated, too big—and after all, how much can one person really do? But a wake-up call in Zimbabwe and a closer study of Scripture soon showed Chris that maybe Christians are overcomplicating how to do act justly in a broken world. Maybe all God is calling us to do is set up a lemonade stand for a good cause. Doing Good is Simple is your practical guide to world change wherever you are. Through Chris’ own journey of an ordinary person seeking God’s good in the world, this book
224 pages, Paperback
Published August 2, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
August 3, 2016
In my experience, the measure of a good book is how much you think about it after you're done reading. This book has been on my mind basically every day since I finished reading. Most of us want to do something with our lives: make an impact, live with purpose, share love. But the problem is that we can get so overwhelmed with all the world's problems, that we shut down & don't do much at all. We continue to live our comfortable, safe lives, while many souls around the world are struggling and suffering. The premise behind this book is so great: You can do something!!
I have 2 cautions, as no book can be perfect...
1) This is such a fine line, but because I grew up in the United Methodist church, I feel extra sensitive to this topic. Social justice is extremely important. "If there is one people group in the entire world that should be filled with crazy compassion, it is Jesus' people." Yes, amen. We should all be doing something. "Faith without deeds is dead" (James 2). However I get a little weary of groups that promote social justice without clearly doing it in the name of Jesus. John Piper says, "Any good-hearted goal, without the desire to give people eternal joy in God, is condemnation with a kind face. Love always wants what is best for the needy, and what's best is enjoying God fully & forever." We must do good, and we must do it in the name of Jesus. The author talks a lot about doing good, and he talks a good amount about Jesus, but I wish he made clear that all this good we can do is really only good if it's done in the name of Jesus.
2) From the back cover, & paraphrased throughout the book: "Doing Good is Simple is your practical guide to world change wherever you are." In all honesty, the author doesn't start explaining the real practical side of doing good until page 149... maybe... of a 200 page book. There's a lot of motivation, a lot of truth, a lot of great stories, but not as much practical guide as I was expecting. Have a garage sale & donate the profits. There's your practical suggestion from the first 3/4 of the book. Partner with an organization doing work you believe in. There's the last chapter of the book. There's a lot of personal work to be done to get started after you're done reading.
All that said, I highly recommend this book to anyone longing to be a world changer!
I have 2 cautions, as no book can be perfect...
1) This is such a fine line, but because I grew up in the United Methodist church, I feel extra sensitive to this topic. Social justice is extremely important. "If there is one people group in the entire world that should be filled with crazy compassion, it is Jesus' people." Yes, amen. We should all be doing something. "Faith without deeds is dead" (James 2). However I get a little weary of groups that promote social justice without clearly doing it in the name of Jesus. John Piper says, "Any good-hearted goal, without the desire to give people eternal joy in God, is condemnation with a kind face. Love always wants what is best for the needy, and what's best is enjoying God fully & forever." We must do good, and we must do it in the name of Jesus. The author talks a lot about doing good, and he talks a good amount about Jesus, but I wish he made clear that all this good we can do is really only good if it's done in the name of Jesus.
2) From the back cover, & paraphrased throughout the book: "Doing Good is Simple is your practical guide to world change wherever you are." In all honesty, the author doesn't start explaining the real practical side of doing good until page 149... maybe... of a 200 page book. There's a lot of motivation, a lot of truth, a lot of great stories, but not as much practical guide as I was expecting. Have a garage sale & donate the profits. There's your practical suggestion from the first 3/4 of the book. Partner with an organization doing work you believe in. There's the last chapter of the book. There's a lot of personal work to be done to get started after you're done reading.
All that said, I highly recommend this book to anyone longing to be a world changer!
January 7, 2017
This is a great book and one I plan to keep buying copies of to give people. That was not where I started in my thinking about this book. Too often, books in the here-is-my-story-and-how-you-can-be-successful-too genre, bore me to death. Usually they say everything important they have to say in the first fifteen pages and then spend the next 200 pages looking for ways to repeatedly say the same thing in a multitude of not-so-different ways. That is not the case with this book. Instead, the author walks you through his extremely difficult childhood, helps you understand how those experiences helped form him, and shares a number of fascinating anecdotes while driving home his message that while it can be simple to Do Good, that doesn't mean it is easy. He shares his views on why many helping organizations fail entirely or fail to live up to their potential or founding vision. And he then leads you through (first) the mindset that enables one to Do Good and (then) specific activities that can help you Do Good. Because the author has a strong Christian faith, the book makes a lot of reference to the importance of faith in the process of doing good. Frankly, however, I think that even someone who reads this book from the perspective of "How can I make a difference in the world," but has no interest in the faith component of the book could get a lot out of it. A key point the author makes in this book is that Doing Good does not require us to quit our day jobs; in fact, he instead suggests that we should look to how we can use the skills we develop in our day jobs to further our goal of Doing Good. In short, I found this a fun, quick, empowering, thought provoking and inspiring book that simultaneously takes away the excuse that "it's too hard" to Do Good and takes away the "why try, I can never fix everything" guilt/excuse, thereby leaving space for you to roll up you sleeves in your spare time and help in whatever way and in support of whatever cause most fuels your passion.
July 31, 2016
This book is a quick, interesting read & a wonderful reminder to start small, that little things add up to big things. It's a nice reminder that no matter how busy we are in our lives, we can do things to make the world a better place.
Chris Marlow's story is an inspiring one. He is a preacher, he and his church have accomplished a lot, helping communities in Africa and Haiti. I'm not religious, where he attributes goodness in the world to god, I would attribute it to the universe/the goodness of people and animals/etc. There can be sections of bible quoting, which I passed by when it was thick.
I am so honored to be part of the book launch team & give big kudos to his writing and continued progress, really inspiring! I folded a lot of the pages to look back on later & also appreciated his sense of humor throughout the book.
Chris Marlow's story is an inspiring one. He is a preacher, he and his church have accomplished a lot, helping communities in Africa and Haiti. I'm not religious, where he attributes goodness in the world to god, I would attribute it to the universe/the goodness of people and animals/etc. There can be sections of bible quoting, which I passed by when it was thick.
I am so honored to be part of the book launch team & give big kudos to his writing and continued progress, really inspiring! I folded a lot of the pages to look back on later & also appreciated his sense of humor throughout the book.
July 11, 2016
Anyone that knows me well can attest to the fact that I hold my religious opinions very privately. Before this book I had never heard of the author Chris Marlow or his organization Help One Now. I will say this book was brought into my life at a perfect time and I have had some goose bump producing moments while reading it, including meeting a family that escaped persecution for their religious choices in their home country. This book is definitely a Christian based writing but many of the statements simply apply to humanity. The message of doing good being simple is one that our entire nation needs. Thank you for allowing me to receive an ARC.
July 24, 2016
Written by Chris Marlow, founder of Help One Now, Doing Good is Simple is a book about helping, working and fighting alongside others in seeking justice and mercy. His stories of HON's accomplishments and successes encourage and motivate readers to get involved. He offers practical advice for finding organizations and serving locally and abroad through those teams. A good read for anyone just starting to look for ways to help others and for those who may be a little burned out or discourage.
March 9, 2017
{necessary information} I received this book as a part of the Doing Good is Simple launch team and the opinions expressed in this blog are mine alone and not those of the author or publisher or launch team
{review: Doing Good is Simple} Chris is open and honest about his experience in calling and in traveling on mission. This book helps you evaluate where you are is where you should serve no matter how big or small it may look you feel to you ( he reminds you that is is all BIG in Gods moving picture). You will not leave reading this book the same, there will be some kind of evaluation of self. I read this book as a part of the launch team but the review is my own opinion. I got the opportunity to be at the launch event and Chris is deff a VERY authentic guy.
{review: Doing Good is Simple} Chris is open and honest about his experience in calling and in traveling on mission. This book helps you evaluate where you are is where you should serve no matter how big or small it may look you feel to you ( he reminds you that is is all BIG in Gods moving picture). You will not leave reading this book the same, there will be some kind of evaluation of self. I read this book as a part of the launch team but the review is my own opinion. I got the opportunity to be at the launch event and Chris is deff a VERY authentic guy.
August 1, 2016
Live a life that is Radically Normal
DOING GOOD IS SIMPLE is a simple, yet powerful book. The author's life was radically transformed whilst on a visit to Zimbabwe. He spend a few minutes in a gas station, and his life was never the same: "A few minutes at a gas station and a single day with thirty orphans changed my life. It was as if God had pried me out of my comfortable Western Christian context, dropped me in the middle of hell, slapped me in the face, and shouted, “Wake up! I need you to care for these little ones because I do.”
The theme of this book is that Christians can love others in simple ways, using your God-given talents: "Doing good is not as difficult as you assumed. It’s not as complicated as you thought or as taxing as you supposed . It won’t require moving to Africa or giving up all your modern comforts or burdening your already overwhelmed family. But it will require you to get creative , have a little fun, and shift some of your thinking."
Christians can easily be overwhelmed, as the author was, when facing horrific circumstances around the world. The author mentions 3 hurdles that might hinder efforts:
Hurdle #1: “The Issues Are Too Numerous”
Hurdle #2: “The Problems Are Too Big”
Hurdle #3: “The Solutions Are Too Complicated”
These hurdles can become real obstacles, but no one is called to fix everything. "You can’t; that is not your problem or role. Take a moment, breathe, and allow that truth to bring peace to your weary soul."
The Bible calls all Christians to make a difference--not just the super powerful. God uses "ordinary people to do his extraordinary work...You can take small, powerful steps to move toward a life filled with compassion, a life in which God uses your gifts to bring hope to the hurting." Of all people, Christians should be givers: "If God is a giver, then his people should also be known as givers, yes? It seems difficult to say, “I follow Jesus” and not really mimic who Jesus was— a giver. "
Chris exports readers to be filled with "crazy compassion." Instead of emphasizing what you are against, change your focus, use your gifts to make a real difference to someone begging for compassion: "God gifted us so we can use those gifts to make the world whole. Your gifts were always meant to serve your neighbor well. They are not always flashy, but they all matter."
The author suggests 6 ways to make a real, practical difference:
1. Do Something Rather than Nothing
2. Start Small
3. Follow Your Passions
4. Use Your Gifts
5. Build Relationships
6. Stick With It
Whatever your gift, wherever you live, you can be "wildly significant." There are countless ways: "Whether it’s sponsoring a child, volunteering your Saturday, collecting spare change, or running a lemonade stand from your front yard. We struggle for progress. Together we build, trusting God is on the move.
DOING GOOD IS SIMPLE makes a strong statement, loud and clear. Live a "radical normal" life that doesn't make sense to many, except those who understand what they have been given. DOING GOOD IS SIMPLE encourages the reader to "live a life that reflects faith, hope, and love."
Advance Review Copy courtesy of NetGalley.
DOING GOOD IS SIMPLE is a simple, yet powerful book. The author's life was radically transformed whilst on a visit to Zimbabwe. He spend a few minutes in a gas station, and his life was never the same: "A few minutes at a gas station and a single day with thirty orphans changed my life. It was as if God had pried me out of my comfortable Western Christian context, dropped me in the middle of hell, slapped me in the face, and shouted, “Wake up! I need you to care for these little ones because I do.”
The theme of this book is that Christians can love others in simple ways, using your God-given talents: "Doing good is not as difficult as you assumed. It’s not as complicated as you thought or as taxing as you supposed . It won’t require moving to Africa or giving up all your modern comforts or burdening your already overwhelmed family. But it will require you to get creative , have a little fun, and shift some of your thinking."
Christians can easily be overwhelmed, as the author was, when facing horrific circumstances around the world. The author mentions 3 hurdles that might hinder efforts:
Hurdle #1: “The Issues Are Too Numerous”
Hurdle #2: “The Problems Are Too Big”
Hurdle #3: “The Solutions Are Too Complicated”
These hurdles can become real obstacles, but no one is called to fix everything. "You can’t; that is not your problem or role. Take a moment, breathe, and allow that truth to bring peace to your weary soul."
The Bible calls all Christians to make a difference--not just the super powerful. God uses "ordinary people to do his extraordinary work...You can take small, powerful steps to move toward a life filled with compassion, a life in which God uses your gifts to bring hope to the hurting." Of all people, Christians should be givers: "If God is a giver, then his people should also be known as givers, yes? It seems difficult to say, “I follow Jesus” and not really mimic who Jesus was— a giver. "
Chris exports readers to be filled with "crazy compassion." Instead of emphasizing what you are against, change your focus, use your gifts to make a real difference to someone begging for compassion: "God gifted us so we can use those gifts to make the world whole. Your gifts were always meant to serve your neighbor well. They are not always flashy, but they all matter."
The author suggests 6 ways to make a real, practical difference:
1. Do Something Rather than Nothing
2. Start Small
3. Follow Your Passions
4. Use Your Gifts
5. Build Relationships
6. Stick With It
Whatever your gift, wherever you live, you can be "wildly significant." There are countless ways: "Whether it’s sponsoring a child, volunteering your Saturday, collecting spare change, or running a lemonade stand from your front yard. We struggle for progress. Together we build, trusting God is on the move.
DOING GOOD IS SIMPLE makes a strong statement, loud and clear. Live a "radical normal" life that doesn't make sense to many, except those who understand what they have been given. DOING GOOD IS SIMPLE encourages the reader to "live a life that reflects faith, hope, and love."
Advance Review Copy courtesy of NetGalley.
July 16, 2016
I’m raising my hand over here to say that "Doing Good is Simple" was written for me. Perhaps it was written for you, too. If you’ve ever taken a step back from serving because the world’s problems were too big, and if, like me, you were sure you could never possess the power or talents to change things for the better, this book is a bold and beautiful invitation to get in the game. In his first book (please, let there be a second and third, etc…), Chris Marlow very clearly shows us that we can affect change, we can be changed ourselves, and that we don’t have to dismantle our lives to do it. And here’s the kicker: God rejoices in our decision to jump in!
Our world is messy, and the global issues we face can cause the best of us to stop, paralyzed in our tracks. The author meets us where we are, and he shows us how we can choose action, in whatever form that looks like to us, in order to help others. “Doing Good is Simple”, in its no-nonsense brevity, gives us a very clear vision of what good may come from simple acts. It’s the little book that could, and very much like the author's message, it is significant in its simplicity.
For me, this quote sums up the power of the book: “I believe ordinary people can partner with God, unleash good, change the world, and still have a life. We don’t have to carry this heavy, impossible burden to fix all the world’s problems—we just have to know where God has called us to help. You don’t have to move to another country, quit your job, or stop enjoying life. This is not the mission or hope of Jesus; we are free in Christ, not trapped by religion.”
I loved this book. I hope you do, too.
Our world is messy, and the global issues we face can cause the best of us to stop, paralyzed in our tracks. The author meets us where we are, and he shows us how we can choose action, in whatever form that looks like to us, in order to help others. “Doing Good is Simple”, in its no-nonsense brevity, gives us a very clear vision of what good may come from simple acts. It’s the little book that could, and very much like the author's message, it is significant in its simplicity.
For me, this quote sums up the power of the book: “I believe ordinary people can partner with God, unleash good, change the world, and still have a life. We don’t have to carry this heavy, impossible burden to fix all the world’s problems—we just have to know where God has called us to help. You don’t have to move to another country, quit your job, or stop enjoying life. This is not the mission or hope of Jesus; we are free in Christ, not trapped by religion.”
I loved this book. I hope you do, too.
May 9, 2017
Chris Marlow takes a world's supply of heartache and turns it into little bits of good that each of us can do. We walk with him through his journey from typical American pastor to defender of the world's most vulnerable children. He doesn't hold back, instead honestly sharing how his priorities were rocked by one boy during a fateful trip to Zimbabwe.
The staggering amount of need all around us can be paralyzing and sometimes we don't even know where to start or how we can make a difference. Chris walks the reader step by step through the process of finding the right place to serve. Most importantly, he doesn't share his story of creating a successful organization as the model for everyone. His experiences are intertwined with those of other average people who continue with their day jobs but are making huge impacts in the lives of children around the world.
"We could go on and on, but what is important is to realize that God gifted us so we can use those gifts to make the world whole. Your gifts were always meant to serve your neighbor well."
This book was one of the quickest but most thought-provoking books that I've read recently.
I received an Advanced Reading Copy from the Publisher in exchange for my honest review.
The staggering amount of need all around us can be paralyzing and sometimes we don't even know where to start or how we can make a difference. Chris walks the reader step by step through the process of finding the right place to serve. Most importantly, he doesn't share his story of creating a successful organization as the model for everyone. His experiences are intertwined with those of other average people who continue with their day jobs but are making huge impacts in the lives of children around the world.
"We could go on and on, but what is important is to realize that God gifted us so we can use those gifts to make the world whole. Your gifts were always meant to serve your neighbor well."
This book was one of the quickest but most thought-provoking books that I've read recently.
I received an Advanced Reading Copy from the Publisher in exchange for my honest review.
November 21, 2016
I almost didn't finish this because I'm usually seriously turned off by "kingdom building" language as I find it exclusionary. You either think like I do or your out. But for some reason I kept going...probably because I live with the question of how to do good well, how to do good that builds up rather than tears people down. Then Marlow starts talking about compassion and how a lack of it leads to nothing more than harsh judgement. And this line, "I'm not interested in winning culture wars. I don't want to destroy people in the process of sticking up for truth." And then this one, "...unity-that moment when you care more about the people than the cause." I've spent the last ten days begging for compassion and empathy, and the Christians who've been there with just that are the only reason I have any hope in light of so many putting cause before people.
My three stars are only because I'm not sure Marlow really fulfilled the mission of the subtitle as he never really gives the reader ideas for doing good where THEY are. His focus is really on doing good in the third world, an admirable goal, but I'm guessing most of his readers do not have the resources to travel to Africa or Haiti. But they most likely all live in a community that has real needs.
My three stars are only because I'm not sure Marlow really fulfilled the mission of the subtitle as he never really gives the reader ideas for doing good where THEY are. His focus is really on doing good in the third world, an admirable goal, but I'm guessing most of his readers do not have the resources to travel to Africa or Haiti. But they most likely all live in a community that has real needs.
July 7, 2016
You're living a comfortable life, giving to charity, but you want to do more. You are overwhelmed by the choices in organizations. You wonder if your money, your gifts, your skills could even make a dent in the astronomical problems of this world.
Did I describe you? Get this book. You'll be reminded that the entire world is not your burden, but you CAN be used to make real change and save real lives. You'll feel empowered. You'll find yourself waking up from "compassion fatigue."
One of the aspects I love most about this book is Chris Marlow's voice. He never takes the condescending tone I find all too common these days. You know the one? The one that uses sarcasm for "humor," which is really a thinly veiled attempt to make you feel bad and the author feel important. The one that pretends to be doing you a favor but comes across as haughty instead. Chris never does that. He is kind and considerate, and he assumes the best of his readers. If you're afraid this book is one more loud, annoying piece of white noise, let me assure you it is not.
Chris Marlow's book is a gift for those who want to do good and simply don't know how.
Did I describe you? Get this book. You'll be reminded that the entire world is not your burden, but you CAN be used to make real change and save real lives. You'll feel empowered. You'll find yourself waking up from "compassion fatigue."
One of the aspects I love most about this book is Chris Marlow's voice. He never takes the condescending tone I find all too common these days. You know the one? The one that uses sarcasm for "humor," which is really a thinly veiled attempt to make you feel bad and the author feel important. The one that pretends to be doing you a favor but comes across as haughty instead. Chris never does that. He is kind and considerate, and he assumes the best of his readers. If you're afraid this book is one more loud, annoying piece of white noise, let me assure you it is not.
Chris Marlow's book is a gift for those who want to do good and simply don't know how.
July 11, 2016
This book was written by the founder of an amazing non-profit called Help One Now. Chris Marlow shares stories that were pivotal in the formation of Help One Now, as well as stories that have deeply influenced him personally. I appreciated his transparency and ability to communicate the details and impact of these experiences in writing.
He uses these stories from his own life to encourage and empower the reader to dive in and do something good, asking the question "Why would scripture speak so clearly if normal people were not equipped to do good?" He emphasizes how important this work is, saying " you impact the world by taking tiny steps in the right direction - a direction that is dedicated to solving problems and making the world better." In simple terms he describes how to get started in "doing good", minus the guilt trip.
Jesus is front and center in this book, Chris does not leave you guessing where his faith lies. He disarms any notion of not being good enough for good work, saying "You are good enough, because God is good." This book is fuel for the journey, soak it in!
He uses these stories from his own life to encourage and empower the reader to dive in and do something good, asking the question "Why would scripture speak so clearly if normal people were not equipped to do good?" He emphasizes how important this work is, saying " you impact the world by taking tiny steps in the right direction - a direction that is dedicated to solving problems and making the world better." In simple terms he describes how to get started in "doing good", minus the guilt trip.
Jesus is front and center in this book, Chris does not leave you guessing where his faith lies. He disarms any notion of not being good enough for good work, saying "You are good enough, because God is good." This book is fuel for the journey, soak it in!
July 30, 2016
The author, Chris Marlow, founder of Help One Now, encourages us and shows us how we, as regular, everyday sort of people can make a difference and change the world just using the gifts and talents that God has given them. Chris does a great job in drawing on scripture to lay out the why for helping others but not leaving us feeling guilty or without a way forward. Chris has a heart for helping and not hurting, for empowering and strengthening. He uses scripture and his own stories, both as a child growing up and as an adult as he strives to make a difference, to point us to Jesus and his heart for the poor, orphan, oppressed.
Reading this book was enjoyable, convicting, encouraging, and inspiring. Chris leaves us with some tangible ways we can partner with other people and organizations already doing good and how we can do this as part of our regular lives if we live intentionally. I love that Chris also acknowledges that doing good is simple, but not always easy--he admits that it can involve sacrifice and hard work but that the Lord is good and He has grace with us and He will lead us (and that we are not to do it in our own strength)!
Reading this book was enjoyable, convicting, encouraging, and inspiring. Chris leaves us with some tangible ways we can partner with other people and organizations already doing good and how we can do this as part of our regular lives if we live intentionally. I love that Chris also acknowledges that doing good is simple, but not always easy--he admits that it can involve sacrifice and hard work but that the Lord is good and He has grace with us and He will lead us (and that we are not to do it in our own strength)!
July 22, 2016
From the title, I was a bit worried that "doing good is simple" would be a three step process to doing good. On the other hand- I was worried that it would leave me feeling inept, frustrated by my inability to save the world. I was pleasantly surprised on both accounts. I ended this book so encouraged, so full of hope- that not only could I made a difference in the lives of those suffering from the inequalities and injustices of the world- but maybe I could bring others along with me in this process.
It is a personal story of Chris's finding Jesus and finding his calling to Help One Now. It also has stories of suffering, hunger, abandonment, injustices- and in a beautiful way- it tells us that we not only have the responsibility to do our part, but we actually have the resources and the abilities- that all of our gifts and skills can be valuable and can help alleviate others sufferings. It is motivational, but also gives you practical small ways to move forward.
It is a book I will recommend to everyone who cares at so about other people.
It is a personal story of Chris's finding Jesus and finding his calling to Help One Now. It also has stories of suffering, hunger, abandonment, injustices- and in a beautiful way- it tells us that we not only have the responsibility to do our part, but we actually have the resources and the abilities- that all of our gifts and skills can be valuable and can help alleviate others sufferings. It is motivational, but also gives you practical small ways to move forward.
It is a book I will recommend to everyone who cares at so about other people.
February 16, 2017
Chris Marlow tells a great story! He also helps us all realize that we are created for community and that we can all make a difference by doing something simple!
Chris had a life changing experience in Zimbabwe -- which surprisingly is one of the things I related to him the most about. Hearing his story helped me feel connected to him.
I loved the simplicity of the hurdles he described:
Hurdle #1: “The Issues Are Too Numerous”
Hurdle #2: “The Problems Are Too Big”
Hurdle #3: “The Solutions Are Too Complicated”
I have certainly felt all of these at different points in my life. If you have as well, please buy this book and read it. A few pages in you will realize that Chris has some tips that will help you overcome these hurdles to to find a way that will allow you to simply do some good in the world around you! Reading his stories is like sitting down for coffee with a great friend, you will not be disappointed in this book!
Chris had a life changing experience in Zimbabwe -- which surprisingly is one of the things I related to him the most about. Hearing his story helped me feel connected to him.
I loved the simplicity of the hurdles he described:
Hurdle #1: “The Issues Are Too Numerous”
Hurdle #2: “The Problems Are Too Big”
Hurdle #3: “The Solutions Are Too Complicated”
I have certainly felt all of these at different points in my life. If you have as well, please buy this book and read it. A few pages in you will realize that Chris has some tips that will help you overcome these hurdles to to find a way that will allow you to simply do some good in the world around you! Reading his stories is like sitting down for coffee with a great friend, you will not be disappointed in this book!
July 14, 2016
For a long time I felt a struggle with religion. Let me be very clear in the fact that I felt secure in my faith. I struggled to watch people throw their religion in the face of others and use the name of religion to try to justify negative behavior or feelings.
I have always had a strong faith in doing good and being kind. Chris Marlow writes so deeply to my heart in this book. I flagged so many experts that it is hard to find a page without a note.
Doing Good is truly Simple and Chris puts it on paper how easy it is to do good for others so simply.
Chris so gracefully walks through how simple actions can make a great impact. I really hope Chris write more as I would love to get to know more about these everyday people doing good in simple ways.
I received an Advanced reader copy from Zondervan.
I have always had a strong faith in doing good and being kind. Chris Marlow writes so deeply to my heart in this book. I flagged so many experts that it is hard to find a page without a note.
Doing Good is truly Simple and Chris puts it on paper how easy it is to do good for others so simply.
Chris so gracefully walks through how simple actions can make a great impact. I really hope Chris write more as I would love to get to know more about these everyday people doing good in simple ways.
I received an Advanced reader copy from Zondervan.
July 11, 2016
I finished reading "Doing Good is Simple" a few days ago and continue wake up and fall asleep thinking about many of the stories, challenges and encouragements shared in this book. Chris is able to combine his personal story along with scripture to make a compelling case that we all must serve the poor and that it is possible!
If you have ever felt overwhelmed or unsure about what your actions can do- this book is for you.
If you need a little encouragement in your quest to seek justice, love mercy and walk humbly with God- this book is for you.
If you are leading a small group that seeks to follow Jesus- this book is for you.
If you are interested in learning more about Help One Now and the story of how their powerful Kingdom work got started and continues to thrive- this book is for you.
It is a quick and easy read - Enjoy!
If you have ever felt overwhelmed or unsure about what your actions can do- this book is for you.
If you need a little encouragement in your quest to seek justice, love mercy and walk humbly with God- this book is for you.
If you are leading a small group that seeks to follow Jesus- this book is for you.
If you are interested in learning more about Help One Now and the story of how their powerful Kingdom work got started and continues to thrive- this book is for you.
It is a quick and easy read - Enjoy!
July 14, 2016
This book was exactly what I needed to read! It's easy to be discouraged when you don't have all the resources to jump on a plane and fly thousands of miles away for a mission trip. Chris shows us that our backyard is our battlefield. That's where our missions should start. There are things we can do right where we are, if we just pay attention to the community God has placed around us. As you read this book you will see so many ways you can make a difference that really are simple. But simple doesn't mean unimportant. This book showed me that focusing on what I can do with the resources I do have is all that God asks of us. If you want to make a difference and you want to do something good for others, this book is just where you need to start!
July 22, 2016
This book is a powerful telling of how one person can make a difference in this world. Really one person can start a movement that betters the world for others. It's inspiring and challenges us as Christians to look beyond ourselves to the needy around the world.
As Americans we have such a myopic view of life. We know there is poverty in the world. However for most of us we never really see it or experience it especially to the extent that some people live in. Chris Marlow challenges is to do something to help others as Christ challenges us to especially the poor. Do something, anything to help someone and you can change their life forever.
Such an inspiring story. I will find some way to help someone since I've been in my ivory tower too long.
As Americans we have such a myopic view of life. We know there is poverty in the world. However for most of us we never really see it or experience it especially to the extent that some people live in. Chris Marlow challenges is to do something to help others as Christ challenges us to especially the poor. Do something, anything to help someone and you can change their life forever.
Such an inspiring story. I will find some way to help someone since I've been in my ivory tower too long.
July 7, 2016
Chris Marlow has such a great heart for God and for the poor, widowed, and orphaned. I was a "fan" of Marlow and the work he is doing with HelpOneNow before this book and now I am ALL IN. In this book, Marlow tells his and HelpOneNow's story ,but he also dives deep into how you can do good right where you are at and how important it is to use your gifts to do good. I love that he makes it clear that Doing Good is Simple but not always "Easy" and that there is tension in this that we need to learn to expect and embrace. Overall, this is a great book and easy read I would definitely recommend it.
July 9, 2016
Chris Marlow's book "Doing Good is Simple" provides a practical guide for doing good without becoming overwhelmed at the vast amount of pain, need and darkness in the world. As I live and work in an impoverished area of South Africa, I often struggle with burnout and cynicism as the needs seem to multiply and the time and resources I have to offer are never enough. Marlow's book was a reminder that none of us were made to carry the weight of the world, but we all have gifts and passions that were given by a good, good God who wants to use ordinary people, doing simple but meaningful work to change the world!
July 20, 2016
Chris makes me believe (and I hope all of you) that we all can do good in the world. I loved his list of the six things we can do to start: do something rather than nothing, start small, follow your passions, use your gifts, build relationships, and stick with it. He helps us see that we don't have to start a nonprofit or go somewhere to make a difference It is simple and we all can and should be a part of doing good in the world.
I am in awe of the work he has done and the relationships he has built. What a great reminder of how we are called to be present amongst others and to just be kind.
There is hope my friends and Chris shows us that!
I am in awe of the work he has done and the relationships he has built. What a great reminder of how we are called to be present amongst others and to just be kind.
There is hope my friends and Chris shows us that!
July 18, 2016
Oh my heart, I write this with tears in my eyes and love in my heart. Even in light of recent current events, this is a must read. We can do good in this broken world. It really is that simple.
"Commit to being a doer of the Word; do something, and that something, though it may seem small and insignificant in the beginning, will lead to another action step, and then another."
This book has so many quotes and words of wisdom....I believe there are more words highlighted than not.
A must read for everyone.
"Commit to being a doer of the Word; do something, and that something, though it may seem small and insignificant in the beginning, will lead to another action step, and then another."
This book has so many quotes and words of wisdom....I believe there are more words highlighted than not.
A must read for everyone.
August 2, 2016
Chris Marlow who leads Help One Now, tells the story of his life and how the non-profit began. If you are a Christian person looking for a jolt to your walk, this will deliver it, but in a kind and caring way. Chris challenges each of us to start somewhere, with something as simple as selling items at a garage sale. It is a practical book with many scriptural references, which could make it great for a small group book study. I hope you enjoy it, it encouraged and reminded me of why I chose the life I did. It reminded me to press on and keep living on mission.
July 16, 2016
I received an advance copy of this book as a part of Chris's launch team. It certainly has a timely message as our world appears to crumble all around us.
Have you ever felt utterly overwhelmed with the thought of attending to the needs of this world and have no idea where to begin? Chris offers practical advice on how to get involved and effectively serve others (particularly the impoverished) I finished the book with a greater sense of what I can do in my little corner of the world.
Have you ever felt utterly overwhelmed with the thought of attending to the needs of this world and have no idea where to begin? Chris offers practical advice on how to get involved and effectively serve others (particularly the impoverished) I finished the book with a greater sense of what I can do in my little corner of the world.
July 7, 2016
I read this book all in one sitting because the real life stories really drew me in. I really enjoyed Marlow's reflections on his process of 'changing the world.' I wish there were more examples of recommendations for others at the end, but part of the point is to find the simple things around you. If you're looking for inspiration to help others in the world, this is a great book. (I received a free copy of this book as part of the book launch.)
July 24, 2016
A wonderful, heart-felt book! Chris is so transparent about his own journey, that he shows us we all struggle with the same reservations and fears about truly helping save lives. He skillfully helps us put our finger on what is holding us back, and provides insights into how we can help TODAY. Love his heart for those in extreme poverty, as well as those who are stuck in the materialistic, self-centered aspects of the american dream.
September 1, 2016
A great look at how we each can help tackle problems locally and globally. Marlow discussed the problems with short term mission trips and how he believed deeper relationships go further to initiate change in communities. He presents a challenge to the reader to start serving and offers a plan on how to volunteer passionately and with the most impact.
An important read for anyone who has a heart for mission work and an important read for anyone who is unsure of how to take the first step.
An important read for anyone who has a heart for mission work and an important read for anyone who is unsure of how to take the first step.
July 28, 2016
I highlighted almost every page. Chris Marlow opens up and shows us some of his very raw experiences. His transparency and honesty brought me to tears many times. His approach inspired me and also lifted the burden. He gave me tangible ways to do this life meaningfully and manageable and without guilt. This world needs this perspective.
September 12, 2016
Chris Marlow feels he wants to make the world better as a whole, but realizes that he is only capable of helping a small percentage through charity. He asks that each one of us as a person look at our own contributions to helping others. He asks that we apply our charity not to every problem in society, but to a small part. To really examine where each one of us could make a difference
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