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Generous Love: Discover the Joy of Living "Others First"
A Fresh, Down-to-Earth Look on Living and Loving Well
If asked, most of us want to make a difference, to live and love generously. But we get caught in the crazy rush of household routines, work demands, cranky attitudes, difficult people, exhaustion, worry, and pride, and once again we fail to love the people around us at all--let alone well. We too easily default to focusing more on self than on others, on receiving more than giving, in ways we don't even recognize. We dream of reaching out. We just . . . forget. Or don't have the energy.
Using relatable stories, discussion questions, and careful application of God's Word, author and speaker Becky Kopitzke gives you the inspiration and practical tips and ideas you need to see the opportunities around you, to reach out, to live generously, and to love others bravely and selflessly. To bless and be blessed is to actualize the joy of Christ--and to propel love forward.
If asked, most of us want to make a difference, to live and love generously. But we get caught in the crazy rush of household routines, work demands, cranky attitudes, difficult people, exhaustion, worry, and pride, and once again we fail to love the people around us at all--let alone well. We too easily default to focusing more on self than on others, on receiving more than giving, in ways we don't even recognize. We dream of reaching out. We just . . . forget. Or don't have the energy.
Using relatable stories, discussion questions, and careful application of God's Word, author and speaker Becky Kopitzke gives you the inspiration and practical tips and ideas you need to see the opportunities around you, to reach out, to live generously, and to love others bravely and selflessly. To bless and be blessed is to actualize the joy of Christ--and to propel love forward.
- GenresChristianNonfiction
223 pages, Paperback
Published April 3, 2018
30 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
About the author
Becky Kopitzke
7 books35 followersBecky Kopitzke is a writer, speaker, singer, dreamer, lunch packer, snowman builder and recovering perfectionist. She lives with her handsome husband and their two young daughters in northeast Wisconsin, where a pink indoor trampoline fills half the once formal living room.
Becky believes God works in the ordinary, and it's up to us to find him there. On her blog, Time Out with Becky Kopitzke, she offers weekly encouragement for fellow imperfect women, pointing our weaknesses, blessings, and victories to God. Becky's first book, The SuperMom Myth: Conquering the Dirty Villains of Motherhood, is slated to release December 1, 2015 with Shiloh Run Press.
Becky believes God works in the ordinary, and it's up to us to find him there. On her blog, Time Out with Becky Kopitzke, she offers weekly encouragement for fellow imperfect women, pointing our weaknesses, blessings, and victories to God. Becky's first book, The SuperMom Myth: Conquering the Dirty Villains of Motherhood, is slated to release December 1, 2015 with Shiloh Run Press.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
March 29, 2021
I really enjoy Becky Kopitzke's style of writing, very down-to-earth and easy to digest. Her books are always more interesting to me because I know her and her family personally, so the stories about their family life are enjoyable and relatable. This book certainly gave me food for thought and some steps to implement in my life so I can live "others first." I was struck by one inaccurate statement in the book. She mentioned that Jesus was the only sinless human being. Actually, there were two sinless human beings since the fall of Adam and Eve. Before Jesus was his mother, the Blessed Virgin Mary, who was conceived without the stain of original sin. As Kopitzke's books are written for wives and mothers, it's odd that she never uses any examples of Our Divine Mother, who should be a role model for all women.
May 23, 2022
God blessed me with the spiritual gift of giving. Over the years He’s placed amazing books in my path on the topic of giving. Each one has encouraged me and inspired me to use my God-given gift to a greater degree.
I spotted this book at our local Christian bookstore. I flipped the book over to read the details. On the top are the words: A Fresh, Down-to-Earth Look at Living and Loving Well. Further down I discover this book will give me inspiration, practical tips, and ideas I need to make the most of the opportunities around me and reach out with love. I smile as I write this. The Lord knows me well. The book went home with me, and what a treasure it turned out to be.
In the Introduction, the author states, “Generous love is more than a singular act of kindness or an isolated whim of generosity. It’s a habit. A lifestyle. A default choice.” She asks the question: What would the world look like if we all made intentional efforts to bless one another?
A great question, and after reading this book, readers will realize that blessing others is biblical, and not as hard as one might think. We are surrounded by men, women, and children of all ages and from all walks of life. No shortage of people to bestow a blessing upon.
The author does a brilliant job in showing readers the what, why, and how of loving others through generous blessings. Scriptures verses are provided to support what is written. She openly shares tidbits from her own life and that of others. Readers can relate with what she is saying. No condemnation nor judgment will be found in this book. Each chapter ends with, Let’s Dig Deeper, where a series of questions are asked pertaining to the chapter just read.
I enjoyed the whole book, especially the chapters devoted to the Four P’s of Blessings.
# 1 Presence – Blessing with our presence means giving our time, our attention, and our involvement. There is something for everyone among the 50 Ways to Bless with Your Presence.
So often the best gift we can give is of ourselves.
#2 Possessions – God is constantly inviting us to get creative to share what we have even when we think we don’t have enough. How attached are we to our stuff? Are in tune to the needs of others? Tears filled my eyes as I read the story of Olivia. The kindness she exhibited in her short-lived life left a huge impression on people, including me. When I read the 50 Ways to Bless with Your Possessions, I discovered things I had not considered. Giving a blessing can be so simple!
#3 – Perspective – How do we actually see people? Are there bias and misconceptions that need to go? What about the people who are different from us? Unique suggestions are given under the 50 Ways to Bless with Your Perspective.
#4 – Prayer – Prayer can make a tremendous impact on individual people, and God’s kingdom as a whole. The power and promises of God can be directly summoned through prayer. A series of questions on prayer are asked with the answer provided such as: Does God really hear my prayers? Why should I pray when God already knows my needs? Does prayer change God’s mind? The 50 Ways to Bless with Your Prayers stretches reader’s minds on how to bless others through prayer.
The book ends with an Epilogue – A Life Well-Lived. Readers are given a glimpse into the life of Jon, and how he chose to love others generously by applying the four p’s of blessing in his daily life. He will forever be remembered by how much he loved. God gives us the opportunity to do the same.
Becky Kopitzke’s book will be kept as a resource in my Faith Library. Jesus said, “It more blessed to give than to receive.” I know this to be true. What a blessing to have a book on hand that shows how to bestow generous love upon others. You, too, will be greatly blessed by reading this book!
I spotted this book at our local Christian bookstore. I flipped the book over to read the details. On the top are the words: A Fresh, Down-to-Earth Look at Living and Loving Well. Further down I discover this book will give me inspiration, practical tips, and ideas I need to make the most of the opportunities around me and reach out with love. I smile as I write this. The Lord knows me well. The book went home with me, and what a treasure it turned out to be.
In the Introduction, the author states, “Generous love is more than a singular act of kindness or an isolated whim of generosity. It’s a habit. A lifestyle. A default choice.” She asks the question: What would the world look like if we all made intentional efforts to bless one another?
A great question, and after reading this book, readers will realize that blessing others is biblical, and not as hard as one might think. We are surrounded by men, women, and children of all ages and from all walks of life. No shortage of people to bestow a blessing upon.
The author does a brilliant job in showing readers the what, why, and how of loving others through generous blessings. Scriptures verses are provided to support what is written. She openly shares tidbits from her own life and that of others. Readers can relate with what she is saying. No condemnation nor judgment will be found in this book. Each chapter ends with, Let’s Dig Deeper, where a series of questions are asked pertaining to the chapter just read.
I enjoyed the whole book, especially the chapters devoted to the Four P’s of Blessings.
# 1 Presence – Blessing with our presence means giving our time, our attention, and our involvement. There is something for everyone among the 50 Ways to Bless with Your Presence.
So often the best gift we can give is of ourselves.
#2 Possessions – God is constantly inviting us to get creative to share what we have even when we think we don’t have enough. How attached are we to our stuff? Are in tune to the needs of others? Tears filled my eyes as I read the story of Olivia. The kindness she exhibited in her short-lived life left a huge impression on people, including me. When I read the 50 Ways to Bless with Your Possessions, I discovered things I had not considered. Giving a blessing can be so simple!
#3 – Perspective – How do we actually see people? Are there bias and misconceptions that need to go? What about the people who are different from us? Unique suggestions are given under the 50 Ways to Bless with Your Perspective.
#4 – Prayer – Prayer can make a tremendous impact on individual people, and God’s kingdom as a whole. The power and promises of God can be directly summoned through prayer. A series of questions on prayer are asked with the answer provided such as: Does God really hear my prayers? Why should I pray when God already knows my needs? Does prayer change God’s mind? The 50 Ways to Bless with Your Prayers stretches reader’s minds on how to bless others through prayer.
The book ends with an Epilogue – A Life Well-Lived. Readers are given a glimpse into the life of Jon, and how he chose to love others generously by applying the four p’s of blessing in his daily life. He will forever be remembered by how much he loved. God gives us the opportunity to do the same.
Becky Kopitzke’s book will be kept as a resource in my Faith Library. Jesus said, “It more blessed to give than to receive.” I know this to be true. What a blessing to have a book on hand that shows how to bestow generous love upon others. You, too, will be greatly blessed by reading this book!
May 15, 2018
Sacrificial, no holds barred love: is what it's called. It's the kind that sacrifices itself on behalf of others. It's the kind that led God to show us who He truly is. With that said, this is Becky Kopitzke's premise for her latest book, Generous Love. It's the kind of love that is unconditional. It puts others at the fore and makes the one who's giving it less of who they are. Paul said that this way, "I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me" (Galatians 2:20, Berean Study).
John, Jesus Christ's beloved disciple, writes of what our Lord and Savior said, "As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Remain in My love...This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends...This is My command to you: Love one another" (John 15:9-17, summarized). In other words, as fellow Christians who proclaim Christ this is the central focal point in our life: to love others, to keep others first.
Jesus Christ Himself said, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets" (Matthew 22:37-40, New King James). All of that said, Becky does an incredible job with her book in explaining how we ought to live our lives "others first." The whole cross point of the matter stems from making God, Jesus Christ, the focal point.
With personal stories and a lot of insight that she has regarding what the Bible says I believe Becky has done a rather remarkable job explaining what it means to live "others first." If we take the life of Jesus and split it directly in half we see a man, both man and God, putting off His divine rights for the express benefit of others. Time and time again we see Him saying things such as, "Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner" (John 5:19, New American Standard).
Consequently, the way Christ lived His life, the way the Father, would have Him do He fulfilled to the last part of what was written as well as ordained by God Himself for Christ. He spoke encouraging, life-building words to those who desperately needed it. In that same fashion so has Becky. She shows us, in and through her book Generous Love, what it means to live a life in Jesus Christ. That dividing point -- between being a doctor to those who needed Him, as well as explaining God's word --- was central to who and what Jesus Christ is. It is no less the same for us who belong to Him.
Therefore, I honestly believe that Becky has done and given her best in showing and explaining how we are to live an "others first" mindset. It takes us off of thinking of ourselves and more on what God has called us to do: to love others as He has loved us. It is my firm belief that Becky provides her best within the pages of Generous Love as well as being the loving woman she is in advancing the Kingdom message of who Christ is.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House for an honest and fair review.
John, Jesus Christ's beloved disciple, writes of what our Lord and Savior said, "As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Remain in My love...This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends...This is My command to you: Love one another" (John 15:9-17, summarized). In other words, as fellow Christians who proclaim Christ this is the central focal point in our life: to love others, to keep others first.
Jesus Christ Himself said, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets" (Matthew 22:37-40, New King James). All of that said, Becky does an incredible job with her book in explaining how we ought to live our lives "others first." The whole cross point of the matter stems from making God, Jesus Christ, the focal point.
With personal stories and a lot of insight that she has regarding what the Bible says I believe Becky has done a rather remarkable job explaining what it means to live "others first." If we take the life of Jesus and split it directly in half we see a man, both man and God, putting off His divine rights for the express benefit of others. Time and time again we see Him saying things such as, "Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of Himself, unless it is something He sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, these things the Son also does in like manner" (John 5:19, New American Standard).
Consequently, the way Christ lived His life, the way the Father, would have Him do He fulfilled to the last part of what was written as well as ordained by God Himself for Christ. He spoke encouraging, life-building words to those who desperately needed it. In that same fashion so has Becky. She shows us, in and through her book Generous Love, what it means to live a life in Jesus Christ. That dividing point -- between being a doctor to those who needed Him, as well as explaining God's word --- was central to who and what Jesus Christ is. It is no less the same for us who belong to Him.
Therefore, I honestly believe that Becky has done and given her best in showing and explaining how we are to live an "others first" mindset. It takes us off of thinking of ourselves and more on what God has called us to do: to love others as He has loved us. It is my firm belief that Becky provides her best within the pages of Generous Love as well as being the loving woman she is in advancing the Kingdom message of who Christ is.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House for an honest and fair review.
May 22, 2018
Generous love is a book that brings it all back to basics. You will see your life through a new lens and realize all the places where you have lacked in being generous with your love. Becky is not stingy with the amount of scripture she quotes. Verses are not few and far between, they are on every page. You are reading scripture and given a practical way to live it out chapter after chapter. Becky’s stories will keep you engaged and excited to get to the next paragraph to read more. One of the best parts may be the amount of ideas she gives her readers on how to love BIG TIME, in small ways. Significant, but simple. My kinda gal. I have so many ideas in the back of my mind that I will be able to pull out in order to bless people. Pre-saved” (as Becky calls it), just-saved, or the has-been-saved alike will be blessed by this book by being shown how to live life as a blessing to others.
If I’m being completely honest, I wanted to write Generous Love off within the first few pages of reading. I found lessons I’ve already learned, phrases I’ve heard a million times. But for the sake of writing this review, I kept on reading. The deeper I got, the more I saw just how far my mind is from a right perspective. The lessons within this book are straight from the Bible itself. Back to basics. Not prettied up, but right out of the principles found in God’s own Word. As I spent the week reading this book and weighing the words in it against my own life, I began to realize just how far away I was from practicing these principles on a daily basis. My mind needed renewing big time. They are simple principles, but difficult to execute. Easy to understand, but profound (the same goes for everything Jesus taught, doesn’t it?). I seriously struggled as I realized just how far I am from thinking others first. From living to bless others. Maybe you, like me, need to get back to basics. Maybe you need a fresh reminder of simple truths that we have gotten so far away from with our big theology and dressed up phrases.
I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of this review.
If I’m being completely honest, I wanted to write Generous Love off within the first few pages of reading. I found lessons I’ve already learned, phrases I’ve heard a million times. But for the sake of writing this review, I kept on reading. The deeper I got, the more I saw just how far my mind is from a right perspective. The lessons within this book are straight from the Bible itself. Back to basics. Not prettied up, but right out of the principles found in God’s own Word. As I spent the week reading this book and weighing the words in it against my own life, I began to realize just how far away I was from practicing these principles on a daily basis. My mind needed renewing big time. They are simple principles, but difficult to execute. Easy to understand, but profound (the same goes for everything Jesus taught, doesn’t it?). I seriously struggled as I realized just how far I am from thinking others first. From living to bless others. Maybe you, like me, need to get back to basics. Maybe you need a fresh reminder of simple truths that we have gotten so far away from with our big theology and dressed up phrases.
I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of this review.
April 28, 2018
Our love for one another is what is to distinguish us from the rest of the world. As Christians, how are we to love well, be intentional in our love day by day?
Reading this book provided me with a wealth of information and encouragement for having generous love as a lifestyle, selflessly blessing others. I really like it that Kopitzke first dealt with what gets in the way – sin. Ouch. She reminded me of the importance of my attitude. Ouch again. I also appreciate her concerns about social media and how it might prevent me from blessing someone in person.
Then Kopitzke moved on to provide knowledge and strategy, the tools I need to intentionally bless others. She reminded me that the actions may be simple but the results life changing. She also reminded me that the little choices we make are so important.
I like the stories she tells to illustrate her teaching. Some are her own and reveal that she is like I am, still struggling to learn how to love others well. Some stories are about people who have loved others well. They are really encouraging.
Is this book practical? My goodness. Kopitzke includes 50 ways to bless people with our presence, and then 50 ways to bless people with our possessions, and the same with perspective and prayer. There is no way one can read this book and not have several ideas of how to begin showing generous love right away. There are additional resources at the author's website.
Kopitzke has included questions at the end of every chapter that could be used for personal reflection or group discussion. I highly recommend this book. I can't help but wonder what the world would be like if every Christian began to intentionally bless others with generous love.
Food for thought: “The key to blessing others is this: Make God your top priority.” (Loc 597/3218)
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Reading this book provided me with a wealth of information and encouragement for having generous love as a lifestyle, selflessly blessing others. I really like it that Kopitzke first dealt with what gets in the way – sin. Ouch. She reminded me of the importance of my attitude. Ouch again. I also appreciate her concerns about social media and how it might prevent me from blessing someone in person.
Then Kopitzke moved on to provide knowledge and strategy, the tools I need to intentionally bless others. She reminded me that the actions may be simple but the results life changing. She also reminded me that the little choices we make are so important.
I like the stories she tells to illustrate her teaching. Some are her own and reveal that she is like I am, still struggling to learn how to love others well. Some stories are about people who have loved others well. They are really encouraging.
Is this book practical? My goodness. Kopitzke includes 50 ways to bless people with our presence, and then 50 ways to bless people with our possessions, and the same with perspective and prayer. There is no way one can read this book and not have several ideas of how to begin showing generous love right away. There are additional resources at the author's website.
Kopitzke has included questions at the end of every chapter that could be used for personal reflection or group discussion. I highly recommend this book. I can't help but wonder what the world would be like if every Christian began to intentionally bless others with generous love.
Food for thought: “The key to blessing others is this: Make God your top priority.” (Loc 597/3218)
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
May 14, 2018
Generous Love: Discover the Joy of Living “Others First” by Becky Kopitzke was not at all what I expected. I thought it would be general ideas on how to help people in small, easy ways. Let me preface this review by saying I agreed to review this book thinking it would give me new, small ways to show kindness to people, something my husband and I enjoy doing. I went into it with an open mind, as the author and I have a fundamental difference: She is a Christian, and I am not.
I liked two things about this book. The author has an easy, conversational writing style. It made for a quick read that was easy to understand. Secondly, I liked the idea of the follow-up questions and actions at the end of each chapter. This is all I liked about the book.
I did not like the idea presented in the book that only Christians can truly benefit from kind acts. The benefit being they get to go to Heaven. This seems narrow-minded to me. The book also felt very preachy. Every chapter is a sermon. Generous Love says to give “blessings” (what the author calls kind acts) without expecting anything in return. However, she also says that you will be rewarded by getting into Heaven. Isn’t this contradictory? You are, in fact, expecting a very large reward. It doesn’t really make sense to me. I thought this book was to spread that idea of kindness to people. It has a very small intended audience: Christian women. Why? This doesn’t match the idea of the book in my opinion.
This book is Christian Living/ Inspirational and was published April 3, 2018 by Bethany House Publishers.
Overall, I give Generous Love: Discover the Joy of Living “Others First” by Becky Kopitzke 1 out of 5 stars. It is too narrow in scope and audience and too contradictory to be useful. I am sure there are many people out there who would enjoy this book, but I was not one of them.
I was giving a free copy of this book by the publisher Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
I liked two things about this book. The author has an easy, conversational writing style. It made for a quick read that was easy to understand. Secondly, I liked the idea of the follow-up questions and actions at the end of each chapter. This is all I liked about the book.
I did not like the idea presented in the book that only Christians can truly benefit from kind acts. The benefit being they get to go to Heaven. This seems narrow-minded to me. The book also felt very preachy. Every chapter is a sermon. Generous Love says to give “blessings” (what the author calls kind acts) without expecting anything in return. However, she also says that you will be rewarded by getting into Heaven. Isn’t this contradictory? You are, in fact, expecting a very large reward. It doesn’t really make sense to me. I thought this book was to spread that idea of kindness to people. It has a very small intended audience: Christian women. Why? This doesn’t match the idea of the book in my opinion.
This book is Christian Living/ Inspirational and was published April 3, 2018 by Bethany House Publishers.
Overall, I give Generous Love: Discover the Joy of Living “Others First” by Becky Kopitzke 1 out of 5 stars. It is too narrow in scope and audience and too contradictory to be useful. I am sure there are many people out there who would enjoy this book, but I was not one of them.
I was giving a free copy of this book by the publisher Bethany House in exchange for my honest review.
May 22, 2018
I grew up singing a song in Sunday School that told others "They will know we are Christians by our love." But what does that kind of love look like in our Christian lives? Becky Koptizke talks about how we can love those around us in Generous Love.
Generous Love is indeed a practical and easy to use book. Kopitzke shares what a blessing is and how to bless those around us with the four P's: Presence, Possessions Perspective and Prayer. For each of those four P's, Kopitzke shares a list of 50 ways to make each one a practical way to love someone around you. She also shares stories from her life and those around her that gives examples of how to love. Then at the end of each chapter she includes questions to answer as you dig deeper.
Generous Love offers a lot of solid practical advice and encouragement for loving others well. I enjoyed Kopitzke's down-to-earth writing style. I think she offers a lot of solid advice and information from the Bible. She also offers her advice and information as someone who is real and doesn't do it all perfectly all the time. I also liked that she encourages readers to love in the way the person needs love through Dr. Gary Chapman's Love Language information that she shares. The one thing I wish she had mentioned was the importance of having boundaries along with the love. Otherwise, I just felt she did a great job of sharing a variety of ways to love others. I think Generous Love would be a great book to read alone or in a group of other women.
I received Generous Love from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
Generous Love is indeed a practical and easy to use book. Kopitzke shares what a blessing is and how to bless those around us with the four P's: Presence, Possessions Perspective and Prayer. For each of those four P's, Kopitzke shares a list of 50 ways to make each one a practical way to love someone around you. She also shares stories from her life and those around her that gives examples of how to love. Then at the end of each chapter she includes questions to answer as you dig deeper.
Generous Love offers a lot of solid practical advice and encouragement for loving others well. I enjoyed Kopitzke's down-to-earth writing style. I think she offers a lot of solid advice and information from the Bible. She also offers her advice and information as someone who is real and doesn't do it all perfectly all the time. I also liked that she encourages readers to love in the way the person needs love through Dr. Gary Chapman's Love Language information that she shares. The one thing I wish she had mentioned was the importance of having boundaries along with the love. Otherwise, I just felt she did a great job of sharing a variety of ways to love others. I think Generous Love would be a great book to read alone or in a group of other women.
I received Generous Love from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review.
August 14, 2022
I read this book as my nonfiction pick for the month, and overall I did enjoy it. I didn't really have any breakthroughs, but this book contained truths that are always a good reminder.
The conversational, light way the author writes makes it easy to read and follow, and the way anecdotes are interspersed with teaching makes the chapters compelling. This book did seem to be directed more towards mothers/women with families, and thus, I did not feel like I was the target demographic for reading this book (there were frequent admonishments about "taking time for others even when you're busy taking care of your babies" and the like).
My favorite part of the book was the applicable segments (50 ways to bless someone with __): it gave truly tangible actions to take to take actionable steps towards loving others generously and blessing others. Overall, this book was fine: I liked The Ministry of Ordinary Places: Waking Up to God's Goodness Around You much better, which has a similar message but a more direct and concise (and less pointed) message, but it still made for a good read.
The conversational, light way the author writes makes it easy to read and follow, and the way anecdotes are interspersed with teaching makes the chapters compelling. This book did seem to be directed more towards mothers/women with families, and thus, I did not feel like I was the target demographic for reading this book (there were frequent admonishments about "taking time for others even when you're busy taking care of your babies" and the like).
My favorite part of the book was the applicable segments (50 ways to bless someone with __): it gave truly tangible actions to take to take actionable steps towards loving others generously and blessing others. Overall, this book was fine: I liked The Ministry of Ordinary Places: Waking Up to God's Goodness Around You much better, which has a similar message but a more direct and concise (and less pointed) message, but it still made for a good read.
June 23, 2018
I really enjoyed reading Becky Kopitzke’s new book Generous Love. Despite a busy schedule, I found myself truly enjoying Kopitzke’s conversational and personal way of describing what God’s love feels like and looks like in her life and how she sees other people sharing God’s love. By reminding us of how God blesses us so abundantly, Kopitzke suggests that we set up a blessing toolbox to better learn how to share the blessings we receive from God.
I appreciated the short chapters that allowed me to savor her thoughts and experiences in short bites. I loved her personal and forthcoming honesty as she shared hard and happy experiences about her experiences feeling generous love and sharing generous love with others. Her practical suggestions mixed with her humor and insight made the tone of her book feel encouraging and accessible.
I particularly appreciated Kopitzke’s focus on sharing our presence with others and being present as we do so as a powerful way of showing generous love to people we interact with in a world where people seem too busy and preoccupied. I loved reading Kopitzke’s well written, thought-provoking book. Bethany House gave me a complimentary copy of Generous Love by Becky Kopitzke for my candid review.
I appreciated the short chapters that allowed me to savor her thoughts and experiences in short bites. I loved her personal and forthcoming honesty as she shared hard and happy experiences about her experiences feeling generous love and sharing generous love with others. Her practical suggestions mixed with her humor and insight made the tone of her book feel encouraging and accessible.
I particularly appreciated Kopitzke’s focus on sharing our presence with others and being present as we do so as a powerful way of showing generous love to people we interact with in a world where people seem too busy and preoccupied. I loved reading Kopitzke’s well written, thought-provoking book. Bethany House gave me a complimentary copy of Generous Love by Becky Kopitzke for my candid review.
April 3, 2018
Do you want to be the hands and feet of Jesus?! If your answer is yes, then please add this book to your MUST READS! Becky hits this one out of the park, yet again, with this heartfelt, informative, and inspirational book of living Others First! We have the power to change the world around us by just being kind and generous with the stuff that we have been blessed with! Becky helps us to see the potential that is alive in us, with her real life stories of real women seeing the world and the people in it, through the eyes of Jesus. Joy is in us...sometimes we just need to uncover the potential and spread GENEROUS LOVE!! Starting the forward movement of loving others first has to start somewhere...let it start with you...read this book...it will inspire you!!! Use it in your Small Group as well, as there are great questions at the end of each chapter!!
July 5, 2018
Generous Love is a book filled with literal love. In this book, Becky Kopitzke, shares stories of people who selflessly give to others, provides examples of how to demonstrate generosity and lists scriptures that support unconditional kindness. Reading through the pages I was drawn into the many ways that people are able to be goodness to others when intentional. Becky writes as if she is chatting with a friend and then ends each conversation (chapter) with action items, after summarizing the anecdotes discussed. If you are feeling compelled to step outside of your comfort zone to be graciousness throughout the earth this is a GREAT read, encouraging and guiding readers to be light and love. Read this book with an open heart and mind, try some of the suggested ways to demonstrate love and watch your world change.
April 4, 2018
With a title like this, I expected a deep, theological discussion on love, generosity and joy. While Becky did a great job applying biblical principles to each of these concepts, my biggest takeaways were in the extremely practical applications on how to love well, with both friends/family and strangers alike.
This book was not only gently convicting but motivating and offered clear direction in HOW to find joy not just WHILE living "others first" but BECAUSE of living "others first."
Well done with this message, Becky. It's a MUST-READ for anyone who need .... scratch what I was about to say ... it's a must-read for EVERYONE.
This book was not only gently convicting but motivating and offered clear direction in HOW to find joy not just WHILE living "others first" but BECAUSE of living "others first."
Well done with this message, Becky. It's a MUST-READ for anyone who need .... scratch what I was about to say ... it's a must-read for EVERYONE.
April 3, 2018
Find yourself nodding at the personal narratives shared, then highlighting section after section in this GREAT book that gives hope of what our world could be like if we all just showed more love. Becky's lists of ideas on how to bless others - many cost nothing more than your kindness - are fantastic, practical ways to make a difference to those around us. I cannot wait to load up on copies of this book and share them with friends and family (and maybe even strangers!)... I have not felt this hopeful in a long time that we can make a change in this world - that is, until reading this book.
April 3, 2018
Please read this or listen to it on audiobook!! I have found so much encouragement to love others as Christ loved me!! This book is filled with thought provoking questions that challenge me to be a better me! The author is genuine in offering up her own challenges and gracious in pointing out possible struggles that I might be going through. I listened to it on audiobook and then I couldn't wait to go back through in the paper copy and highlight all the great nuggets I listened to the first time around!
April 6, 2018
This book heightened my awareness of myself, so that I can work to focus on others. This is an easy read, but a deep one as well. Great for the mind and soul. I love that the author offers a "Let's Dig Deeper" section at the end of each chapter. These questions and pondering points really help guide the messages in the book to hit closer to home, as I can make the messages mine. I was looking forward to sharing this book with others when I finished, but I have highlighted and made personal notes- so I guess I will be gifting rather than loaning!
April 12, 2018
This book is both encouraging and inspiring. It is full of stories of others selflessly loving those around them. Becky shares practical ways we can give of our presence, our possessions, our perspective, and our prayers. Small acts done with great love make a difference. We can change the world by loving one person at a time, right where we are, and that is exactly what this book is about. I think this is definitely a book that is worth your time!
April 3, 2018
This is an encouraging, challenging look at generously loving others. Generous Love’s biblical basis, plus practical real-world ideas on ‘how-to’ bless others, starting in our homes and expanding to our greater circle of influence, are insightful and creative! Looking for some encouragement? Looking for ways to encourage, bless and love those around you? This book is it. Becky Kopitzke writes in an easy to read, authentic style that kept me turning the pages with excitement.
April 3, 2018
An excellent, thought provoking book. It will make you step back and look at yourself in a whole new way--am I truly kind and loving...or am I convincing myself that I am...when it is convenient or I feel like it. Generous Love will give you the tools to love generously all those who cross your path, whether that be on the way to the kitchen, at the store, or even the difficult people in your life. A must read!
April 3, 2018
This is a thoughtful book about how to truly love others, from our families to the stranger at the store. The key is Love overflows in our hearts through the Gospel and I love how Becky makes that clear so early on. I also love the stories she shares and the super practical ideas for genuinely showing love to others. In our current world of hate, what a difference true love for others can make!
June 28, 2018
I absolutely LOVED this book. What a blessing to be able to understand that even small acts of love can mean just as much as big ones to other people. I always overthink things, so that was a learning lesson for me. I plan on using this book as a tool to bless others as long as I can. I will definitely re-read it!
April 3, 2018
At a time when I have been feeling lost, Becky comes along with such a powerful book that has the ability to set me back on the right path. Generous Love is truly an inspiring journey that will have me going back, time and time again, for reference!
April 3, 2018
Amazing read! Exactly what this world needs right now! This book gives lots of insight on why we should spread generous love and how to accomplish it in a Godly manner! She also gives real examples and stories and is genuine! Read it by yourself or start a study but definently read this book!
April 3, 2018
This book is awesome. It is a very inspirational read. Becky Kopitzke is an amazing writer.
April 4, 2018
Becky is such a gifted writer. I thoroughly enjoyed the content of the book along with the practical ways to love others well and generously. Everyone needs to read this book at least once!
May 11, 2018
Such a great book about blessing others.
August 1, 2018
Easy Read, lots of stories and ideas to learn from.
December 6, 2019
Very good read!
January 26, 2021
Very good, challenging, and encouraging read.
August 29, 2023
Always need reminders to love, and appreciated the many practical ideas in this book.
August 11, 2019
Christians are to reach out to those around them and be a blessing to a world in need. However, often we don't know how, or we make every excuse as to why we can't bless others. Kopitzke gives the Christian practical tips and advice on how to effectively bless others even when you think you don't have the means to do so. Through blessing others, you, yourself, will be blessed in return.
I learned so much through this book, and at times it downright convicted me. How many times have I said, well I can't bless that person God because I just don't have the money right now? I can't talk to that person because look at them, someone might see. I can't invite so-and-so over because my house isn't nice enough, and on and on it goes. But when if I would listen to those promptings from God, I would not only be a blessing to someone who might need it, but I would be blessed for listening to what God led me to do. I really enjoyed the "4 P's of Blessing" she talks about and each had 50 ideas to implement each one. (Blessing through our Presence, Perspective, Possessions, and Prayer) Overall, this book challenged me to stop being so selfish, and bless those around me, take notice of those I come in contact with. It could simply be a smile or a compliment, even little blessings can make a big impact on others. I highly recommend this book for Christians everywhere; imagine if we all started to bless others not for what we can get out of it, but just to live out the love of Jesus, how different our world might look!
**I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I learned so much through this book, and at times it downright convicted me. How many times have I said, well I can't bless that person God because I just don't have the money right now? I can't talk to that person because look at them, someone might see. I can't invite so-and-so over because my house isn't nice enough, and on and on it goes. But when if I would listen to those promptings from God, I would not only be a blessing to someone who might need it, but I would be blessed for listening to what God led me to do. I really enjoyed the "4 P's of Blessing" she talks about and each had 50 ideas to implement each one. (Blessing through our Presence, Perspective, Possessions, and Prayer) Overall, this book challenged me to stop being so selfish, and bless those around me, take notice of those I come in contact with. It could simply be a smile or a compliment, even little blessings can make a big impact on others. I highly recommend this book for Christians everywhere; imagine if we all started to bless others not for what we can get out of it, but just to live out the love of Jesus, how different our world might look!
**I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
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