Joel Osteen Ministries: BlogEntries http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/AllItems.aspx RSS feed for the BlogEntries list. Sat, 21 Nov 2009 01:22:48 GMT Windows SharePoint Services V3 RSS Generator 60 Joel Osteen Ministries: BlogEntries /_layouts/images/homepage.gif http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/AllItems.aspx Check Your Filter http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=155 BlogText: <p>Living in Houston, we have some super hot days during the summer. It's not uncommon to hear about an air conditioner burning out because it's been overworked. But, the interesting thing is that many problems could be avoided by simply changing the air filter regularly. If the filter gets clogged or is too dirty, it restricts air flow which can cause serious malfunction.</p> <br /> <p>In the same way, we have to keep the filters of our heart clean if we want God's love and power to flow freely through our lives. And there are plenty of negative influences in the world trying to clog us up, but the Word of God is the most powerful filter you can find! It can monitor what comes into your heart and what goes out. </p> <br /> <p>The Bible tells us that faith works by love. If love isn't flowing in your life, then your faith can't work. Many people live with dirty, clogged up heart filters and then wonder why things aren't working for them. Don't let that be you! Take the time to check your filter. Consider the Word of God. Are their negative influences affecting your heart filter? Do your words and the conversations you have flow freely through the filter of God's Word, or are you all clogged up headed for a malfunction?</p> <br /> <p>The good news is that cleaning your heart filter is as easy as calling on the name of Jesus! Today, if you know there are things in your life that are blocking the flow of God's love and power, make the necessary adjustments to keep that filter clean. Don't ever let anything stand in the way of His blessing and peace in your life.</p> <br /> <p><i>&quot;Create in me a pure heart, O God&hellip;&quot;</i> (Psalm 51:10, NIV). </p>
BlogAuthor: Victoria Osteen
BlogDate: 11/12/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,112
BlogSynopsis: Living in Houston, we have some super hot days during the summer. It's not uncommon to hear about an air conditioner burning out because it's been overworked. But, the interesting thing is&hellip;
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Thu, 12 Nov 2009 17:29:18 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=155 Pruning Leads to Blooming http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=158 BlogText: <p>Not long ago, I read about an executive who had worked for a large home improvement company for over 30 years. He helped build that company from the ground up, and now they have retail stores all over the country. But one day, the company had a corporate restructuring, and this man was informed that he was no longer needed. His job had been eliminated.</p> <br /> <p>Of course, he was disappointed. He didn't think it was fair at all. But instead of sitting around thinking about what he had lost, he began to dream of new ideas and look for new opportunities. One day, he got a group of his friends together, and they started a new home improvement company. They called it The Home Depot. As you know, it was very successful, and now they have stores all over the world.</p> <br /> <p>What this man thought was his greatest setback turned out to be his greatest opportunity. Without that adversity, without that layoff, he would have never stepped into the fullness of his God-given destiny.</p> <br /> <p>Maybe you've gone through a loss and just decided, &quot;This is as good as it gets.&quot; Today, I want you to get a new perspective. Realize you're in a pruning season, and God is positioning you for increase. He's getting ready to take you to a higher level. Remember, pruning always leads to blooming. But here's the key: you can't get bitter and fall into the trap of self-pity. Instead, stay in faith. Stay focused on God's promises. When one dream dies, learn to do what this man did, dream another dream. Start looking for new opportunities, new ideas, new friendships. Start expecting increase, favor, and promotion because your season of blooming is on its way!</p>
BlogAuthor: Joel Osteen
BlogDate: 11/18/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,118
BlogSynopsis: Not long ago, I read about an executive who had worked for a large home improvement company for over 30 years. He helped build that company from the ground up, and now they have retail stores all over the country. But one day, the company had a corporate restructuring&hellip;
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Wed, 18 Nov 2009 17:47:19 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=158 What Defines You? http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=157 BlogText: <p> I have a friend who is a beautiful, talented, vibrant woman. She is always so full of enthusiasm and life. She's just consistently positive and passionate, but not everyone embraces her positive personality. In fact, one Monday morning at her office, she entered the conference room for an early morning meeting when she overheard a few co-workers talking about her. One person said, &quot;She is just so chipper and encouraging. Sometimes I want to say to her, 'Are you for real?' Oh, no. Here she comes. I just don't know if I can take her perkiness this morning.&quot;</p> <br /> <p>They didn't realize she had heard every word and she didn't say anything at the time, but those words really wounded her heart. Instead of going into that meeting with her positive attitude and sparkling personality, she timidly took her seat and remained quiet and withdrawn the entire time. </p> <br /> <p>Not only was her mindset different for that meeting, but she also started doubting the very essence of who she was. She began adjusting her overall approach and personality to counteract the words she had overheard. She was allowing her coworkers' opinions to begin to redefine her. </p> <br /> <p> I had noticed the change in my friend, so one day I asked her what was going on. She told me about overhearing her co-workers' comments and how she was trying to tone down her personality so she would be more accepted by the others in the office. I listened for a while, and then I said to her, &quot;Are you kidding me? You are a bright, out-going woman of God! Your heavenly Father gave you that personality, and He uses it to influence a lot of people for good. Don't you dare change who you are simply because your co-workers can't appreciate your God-given gifts.&quot; My friend instantly realized that she was letting her co-workers' disapproval change the very fiber of who God had created her to be.</p> <br /> <p>Do you ever find yourself doing the same thing—changing who you are in order to be accepted by others? Maybe, like my friend, someone in your life said hurtful things about you. But just because somebody says something, doesn't make it true! You don't have to be defined by anyone or anything but the Word of God which says that you are the head and not the tail! You are above only and not beneath! You can have full confidence today knowing that you are made in the image of Almighty God, and you are free to be the unique individual He created you to be! </p>
BlogAuthor: Victoria Osteen
BlogDate: 11/17/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,117
BlogSynopsis: I have a friend who is a beautiful, talented, vibrant woman. She is always so full of enthusiasm and life. She's just consistently positive and passionate, but not everyone embraces her positive personality&hellip;
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:34:52 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=157 Let Peace Be Your Umpire http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=91 BlogText: <p>The scripture says in Colossians 3:15 to let peace act as an umpire, deciding with finality the decisions that arise in our minds. This is saying that peace should be the deciding factor when it comes to the decisions we make. In other words, we should always ask ourselves, &quot;How do I feel about this situation? Do I have peace or is there unrest inside?&quot; This principle can help us in our everyday lives.</p> <p>On our recent trip to Australia, Victoria and I got up early one morning to go get breakfast. I noticed the waiter walking by with a huge stack of steaming hot pancakes. Now, I love pancakes, but I never eat them like I used to because they make me feel so lethargic whenever I do. But these pancakes smelled so good. I saw that syrup running down the sides and butter partially melted on top. I thought to myself, &quot;Oh, this one time is not going to affect me. Besides, these are Australian pancakes. These are special.&quot; So I went ahead and ordered a stack for myself. The whole time I was eating them I felt uneasy on the inside. Something was telling me, &quot;Joel, you’d better not eat those pancakes. They’re going to make you feel bad.&quot; But I ignored that inner voice and ate every bite—they were delicious! I thought, &quot;That’s exactly what I needed.&quot; But do you know that just about thirty minutes later, I felt like I had been run over by a truck! I felt so bad that I had to lie down. I felt tired the whole afternoon.</p> <p>Now, that was a fairly small decision with a fairly small consequence. But any time we override the peace in our hearts, there are consequences to face. How many people buy things that they don’t have peace about and end up head over heels in debt? How many people get into relationships and ignore that inner prompting, and now that relationship is a big mess? And we know that God is bigger than our mistakes. His grace is sufficient. He’ll always provide a way of escape. But how much better off would we be by just following the peace in our hearts? How much heartache would we spare ourselves?</p> <p>Make the decision today that you are not going to override what you’re feeling inside. Remember, that inner peace is your safeguard. Let it act as the umpire of your life, telling you if you’re safe or out or whether you should say yes or no. Let the Holy Spirit guide you by His peace in every decision you make so you can experience the true joy and freedom Jesus came to give you!</p>
BlogAuthor: Joel Osteen
BlogDate: 7/29/2009
BlogInt: 20,090,729
BlogSynopsis: Let the Holy Spirit guide you...
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Wed, 29 Jul 2009 15:47:02 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=91 Not “If”, but “When” http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=127 BlogText: <p>I love it when people have confidence in me. I love when my family has confidence in me. It gives me strength and empowers me. We may not always have confidence in ourselves, but somehow, when there are people around who believe in us, we can draw from their confidence. That’s why it’s so important that we surround ourselves with the right people. When you position yourself in quality places with quality people, it’s going to bring out the best in you.</p> <br /> <p>Most people are familiar with world-famous boxer, Muhammad Ali and his renowned trainer, Angelo Dundee. But many people don’t know that just before every boxing match, Dundee would write a number on a small slip of paper and place it inside Ali’s glove. That may sound like a strange thing to give a boxer right before a fight, but Dundee had a reason for what he did. The number that Dundee would write on that slip of paper was the number of the round in which he predicted that Ali would knock out his opponent. Dundee was so confident in Ali’s ability that he didn’t consider “if,” he only considered “when”—and Ali knew it!</p> <br /> <p>I love that story because it shows the confidence Ali’s trainer had in him, and it shows the positive effect it had on Muhammad Ali. I believe that confidence played a tremendous part in “the champ’s” amazing success as one of the greatest boxers that ever lived.</p> <br /> <p>In the same way, do you know who is certain of your ability to succeed? God is. After all, He knows what’s inside you because He placed it there. Even when you’re not certain of the outcome, God has confidence in you. Let that sink down into your heart today—the God who holds the universe in the palm of His hand has faith in you! He’s not wondering if you’re going to overcome, He has confidence in you because He knows it’s just a matter of time before those things that would try to hold you back are broken off so that you can embrace the victory He has in store for you! </p>
BlogAuthor: Victoria Osteen
BlogDate: 9/24/2009
BlogSynopsis: I love it when people have confidence in me. I love when my family has confidence in me. It gives me strength and empowers me. We may not always have confidence in...
]]> MOSSDEV\kimberly Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:27:50 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=127 Give People the Benefit of the Doubt http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=159 BlogText: <p>Life presents plenty of opportunities to become frustrated and upset if you allow it. There will always be people or incidences that open the door for offense. You may be tempted to blame others for your unhappiness—&quot;Oh, I'm upset because that person was rude to me.&quot;  Or, &quot;That person didn't treat me fairly.&quot;  But the truth is you are the only person who can determine your happiness. You have a choice. You can either choose to be offended, or you can choose to give people the benefit of the doubt and decide to overlook offenses. </p> <br /> <p>It's easy to pick up offenses when you draw conclusions. For example, I have a friend who was supposed to meet another friend for lunch, but the woman never showed up and my friend wasn't able to reach her by phone. I saw my friend later that day, and I could tell she was upset about it. She thought the woman's actions were inconsiderate.  She told me, &quot;I can't believe her! It's as if she doesn't think my time is as important as hers.&quot; The next day, my friend got a call from the woman she was supposed to have lunch with. &quot;I'm so sorry!&quot; she said. &quot;Right as I was about to leave for our lunch appointment, I received a call that my mother was in a terrible car accident and rushed to the emergency room. I was so flustered I forgot to take my cell phone and figured I could call you from the hospital. But by the time I got there, I was so overwhelmed seeing my mother in such critical condition, talking to doctors, and watching monitors—I completely forgot!&quot; My friend immediately forgave her and was so sorry for not giving her the benefit of the doubt.</p> <br /> <p>It all comes down to this: If you want other people to give you grace, then you must choose to extend grace to other people. I love what author and speaker Tim Hansel often says, &quot;Give people a break because everybody you meet today is carrying a heavy load.&quot;  And that's true. We don't know what people are dealing with in their personal lives, but we need each other to encourage and strengthen one another.</p> <br /> <p>Today, don't allow offense to drive a wedge in your relationships. Assume the best of others and choose to give people the benefit of the doubt. Instead of drawing conclusions, always remember to keep your eyes on Jesus and give the people around you the same grace you receive from Him.</p> <br /> <p><i>Love never gives up&hellip;doesn't fly off the handle, doesn't keep score of the sins of others…puts up with anything, trusts God always, always looks for the best, never looks back, but keeps going to the end </i>(Excerpt from I Corinthians 13, The Message).</p>
BlogAuthor: Victoria Osteen
BlogDate: 11/19/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,119
BlogSynopsis: Life presents plenty of opportunities to become frustrated and upset if you allow it. There will always be people or incidences that open the door for offense. You may be tempted to blame others for your unhappiness—&quot;Oh, I'm upset because that person was rude to me.&quot; Or, &quot;That person didn't treat me fairly.&quot; But the truth is&hellip;
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:53:13 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=159 Turn Your Struggle into Strength http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=92 BlogText: <p>In the Gospel of Luke, there was a woman that the Bible says was bent over and crippled for eighteen years. It doesn &acute;t say a whole lot about her, but I can only imagine that she must have struggled a lot. I can imagine it was very difficult for her to do the things that most people take for granted every day. But here she was in this hunched over position, and she happened to be in the synagogue on the same day that Jesus was. Now, first of all, I really commend her for this because it probably wasn &acute;t easy for her to get to the synagogue. Most people in her situation would &acute;ve just stayed home.</p> <p>The Bible says that when Jesus saw her, He called to her to come over where He was. It doesn &acute;t say what he said or how far away she was, but I find it interesting that He didn &acute;t just walk over to her. After all, clearly it would have been easier for Him and, I &acute;m sure, much quicker. But think about it. I bet it got everyone &acute;s attention all around them as they watched the woman struggle to get closer to Jesus. See, when she took that first step, her actions were making a declaration of her faith. She was willing to be obedient. The Bible says as she moved toward Him, He spoke healing over her, and when she was close enough, He laid hands on her and that healing manifested!</p> <p>As I was reading this passage, I thought about how we all go through struggles in life. The enemy wants to cripple our potential. He wants to push us down under a heavy load of cares, worry, or offense. Maybe you &acute;ve been hurt, maybe you &acute;ve been wronged by others, maybe you have anger issues, or you just feel like you &acute;re in over your head. Maybe you have a physical ailment. Whatever it is that you &acute;re struggling with I want you to know that Jesus is calling you today. He &acute;s saying, &quot;Come to me.&quot; He &acute;s speaking strength and healing to you. Take that step of faith toward Him today. Be obedient to whatever He tells you do. You may not have seen your restoration yet, but just keep moving toward Him. His arms are outstretched toward you today filled with restoration, peace, healing, and strength. As you move toward Him, He &acute;ll turn your struggle into strength and empower you because He loves you and has good things in store for your future.</p>
BlogAuthor: Victoria Osteen
BlogDate: 7/30/2009
BlogInt: 20,090,730
BlogSynopsis: You may not have seen your restoration yet, but just keep moving toward Him. His arms are outstretched toward you today filled with restoration, peace, healing, and strength.
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:12:15 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=92 Step Out On Nothing http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=130 BlogText: <p>Victoria and I have been blessed to meet so many amazing people over the years. We’ve heard many wonderful stories of triumph and faith that have inspired us and given us strength. One such person with an incredible life story is a friend of mine, 60 Minutes News Contributor, Byron Pitts.</p> <br /> <p>As a child, Byron was probably one of the least likely to end up as an Emmy Award-winning news correspondent. He grew up in a home filled with fighting, strife and shame. Beyond that, he couldn’t read and he had a terrible stutter until he was in his twenties. At one point, an “expert” even suggested that he was mentally retarded. It didn’t look as if he had anything going for him. Yet still, his foundation of faith in God carried him on a journey of success and victory beyond his wildest dreams.</p> <br /> <p>He recounts his life story in his inspiring new book, “Step Out on Nothing”…</p> <br /> <p><em>We all have those defining moments in our lives. Moments of great joy. Moments of unspeakable sadness and fear. We usually think we’re alone. But if we look into the corners of our memories, we’ll find them. Those people who had faith in us. Those times when a grace beyond earthly understanding touches us. This is a story of those times. Those people. And the lessons they taught me. We’ve all had them in our lives. If not, it’s time to find them.</em></p> <br /> <p>Byron goes on to share about how the people in his life, some he barely knew, took time to “step out on nothing” and invest in him, making an incredible difference in his life. A college professor, a classmate from Minnetonka, Minnesota; the Friars at Archbishop Curley High School. They had nothing to gain, nothing to win, and no guarantees. They just took a step of faith to invest in a young man and those investments carried Bryon into his destiny.</p> <br /> <p>As Byron’s life illustrates, you never know how your investment of time, encouragement, and faith will impact the people around you. You are a person of influence and your words are seeds planted into the lives of others. Don’t ever forget that the things you do for people matter. You may have nothing to gain at the moment, and nothing to win, but go ahead and step out on nothing and invest in others. Remember, the Bible tells us that when we reach out to help “the least of these” we are reaching out and investing in God Himself.</p> <br /> <p>I encourage you today, take time to invest in others. Look for ways to be a blessing to the people in your life. I believe that as you step out on nothing, you'll make an eternal difference. You’ll bless the heart of God and you'll see a harvest of blessing in your own life in return!</p>
BlogAuthor: Joel Osteen
BlogDate: 9/30/2009
BlogSynopsis: Victoria and I have been blessed to meet so many amazing people over the years. We’ve heard many wonderful stories of triumph and faith that have inspired us and given us strength. One such person with an incredible life story is a friend of mine...
]]> MOSSDEV\kimberly Tue, 29 Sep 2009 13:39:01 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=130 Ride the Wind http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=140 BlogText: <p>A while back, I read a fascinating report on the hopper, the baby locust. These young bugs can't quite fly, but they can jump up to two hundred times their height. The hopper learns to fly by riding the wind. When the wind blows and the treetops rustle, the hopper's instincts say: &quot;This is my time to jump.&quot;</p> <br /> <p>That hopper can jump, catch the wind, and fly by riding the breeze; but timing is so critical. Adult locusts also wait for the perfect wind conditions to help them migrate miles and miles. The interesting thing is that they don't have the most aerodynamic bodies. They are thick-bodied insects with small straight wings, so they need to time their leaps just right in order to be successful.</p> <br /> <p>Friend, like the hoppers and the locusts, we need to know when it is our time to ride the winds. We have to stay tuned to signs of opportunity and God's supernatural favor. We have to watch and listen for that inner voice of the Holy Spirit to direct us. When the conditions line up and you know that it's your time, don't hold back! Take that step of faith and allow the winds of God to carry you further and higher than you ever imagined into the destiny He has in store for you!</p>
BlogAuthor: Joel Osteen
BlogDate: 10/19/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,019
BlogSynopsis: A while back, I read a fascinating report on the hopper, the baby locust. These young bugs can't quite fly, but they can jump up to two hundred times their height. The hopper learns to fly by riding the wind. When the wind blows...
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:57:36 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=140 Your Secret Weapon http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=156 BlogText: <p>There is something about being vocal and expressive with your faith that releases God's power in a greater way. It's one thing to be quiet and reverent unto the Lord. It's important to have respect and honor for the things of God. But there are times when being quiet is not enough. At times, it's not even enough to just pray or sing or quote scriptures. There comes a time when a shout of praise is what pushes you over into victory.</p> <br /> <p>The scriptures are full of stories about how God's people lifted up a shout and supernatural things took place. Prison doors were opened. Enemies became confused. Huge walls came tumbling down all because of a shout of praise. That's because when God hears your shouts of praise, He says to the angels, &quot;Get busy. Send healing. Send favor. Send deliverance. Send supernatural breakthroughs.&quot; Like a secret weapon, the shout breaks you through to victory!</p> <br /> <p>One time years ago, Victoria and I were involved in a business deal where somebody had wronged us. They pulled us into a big mess. We had to meet with attorneys and go through the legal process. It was a big waste of time, energy, and money. We finally came to the week when it was all supposed to be resolved. We had one final meeting where the outcome was going to be determined. Early that morning, we were in a parking garage in downtown Houston waiting for the meeting. Victoria said something that I had never heard her say before, &quot;Joel, I think before we get out of the car, we need to turn on some praise music and just shout the victory.&quot;</p> <br /> <p>Well, it was like six o'clock in the morning, and I didn't feel like shouting. I was barely even awake. But we turned on the Lakewood praise CD, and it just so happened to be playing at the end of the song, &quot;We Have Overcome.&quot; We heard about ten or fifteen seconds and then the worship leader came on saying, &quot;It's already done. We've already won the victory. Just shout unto God!&quot; So we just joined in the celebration and we said, &quot;God, we agree. We praise You in advance for the victory. We believe it's already done. We shout unto You with a voice of triumph!&quot;</p> <br /> <p>We got out of the car that morning feeling ten feet tall. We were strengthened and empowered as we gave thanks and praise to the Most High God. When we walked into that meeting, the other side was at odds with each other and began to argue among themselves. Their head attorney got so upset that he left the building. What had dragged on for over three years was totally resolved in our favor that day. Not only that, everything was restored back to us!</p> <br /> <p>Proverbs 29:6 says, &quot;Evil people are trapped by their own wrongdoing, but the righteous escape by shouting for joy.&quot; Friend, remember, when you have the high praises of God coming out of your mouth, He will go to war against your enemies. Any time you find yourself in a situation where you feel trapped, like there is no way out be it in your health, your finances, or a legal situation, don't get down and discouraged; don't start complaining. Remember, you have a secret weapon. Start shouting for joy and watch how God will fight your battles and bring you into total victory!</p>
BlogAuthor: Joel Osteen
BlogDate: 11/16/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,116
BlogSynopsis: There is something about being vocal and expressive with your faith that releases God's power in a greater way. It's one thing to be quiet and reverent unto the Lord. It's important to have respect and honor for the things of God. But there are times when being quiet is not enough&hellip;
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:59:18 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=156 It's Your Time http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=137 BlogText: <p>For about the last year and a half, I’ve been working on my new book, <em>It’s Your Time</em>. More than any other of my books, I feel like a man on a mission with this one. I believe it’s my best work so far, and I’ve gotten the same feedback from others.</p> <br /> <p>I wrote this book because so many people are dealing with burdens brought on by the economic downturn on top of the everyday challenges in their families, careers, relationships, and health. The enemy would love nothing more than to make you feel isolated, hopeless, and forgotten. But I want to remind you that you are not forgotten. You are not alone, and you do have hope! God Almighty has promised to be with you on the mountain and in the valley. He is as close to you as the air you breathe. He is there to walk with you and guide you even in the dark, difficult times.</p> <br /> <p>So often we find ourselves waiting for a better day, a “one day,” to move forward. We look at our circumstances and think, “One day, I’ll have better health…One day, the economy will improve, and I can get a better job…One day, I’ll break this addiction.” But I want you to know that today is your “one day.” It’s your time to break free from past limitations and embrace every promise God has for you.</p> <br /> <p>God’s promises aren’t based on the economy. They aren’t based on circumstances or what other people feel or say. God’s promises are based on His Word which stands true forever! No matter what is going on around you, you can stand tall with your head held high knowing that God is still working in your life, and He will complete what He’s started in you.</p> <br /> <p><em>It’s Your Time</em> was written as a lifeline, so to speak, to help you make it through the difficult times. It’s not so much about principles, like in my previous books. This one is about inspiration and motivation to keep you going and achieve what God has placed in your heart. Even when I read it myself, it does something for me on the inside. The truth of God’s Word still resonates in my own heart, and I feel like it’s the right time for this message in our nation and in the world.</p> <br /> <p>In the coming weeks, I want to begin to share some encouragements from </em>It’s Your Time. I believe it’s going bless you, encourage you, and inspire you! My desire is to speak faith into your life and call forth the seeds of greatness God has planted within. Remember, your best days are ahead, and it’s your time to grab hold of the great things God has in store for you!</p>
BlogAuthor: Joel Osteen
BlogDate: 10/14/2009
BlogSynopsis: For about the last year and a half, I’ve been working on my new book, <em>It’s Your Time</em>. More than any other of my books, I feel like a man on a mission with this one. I believe it’s my best work so far, and I’ve gotten the same feedback from others...
]]> MOSSDEV\kimberly Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:48:54 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=137 Brighter Days Ahead http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=114 BlogText: <p>People ask me all the time, “How can you be so optimistic during such tough economic times?” The answer to that is simple—it’s not over yet! The scripture says that the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn shining brighter and brighter. We may be facing difficulty, but there are brighter days ahead. I choose to focus on where we are going, and that gives me hope and encouragement because I know that the tough times won’t last.</p> <br /> <p>All throughout history, God’s people have faced challenging times. There were plenty of times they didn’t see a way out, but God did. He always makes a way when there seems to be no way. His hands are never tied. He’s not limited by what’s happening in this natural realm, and when we look with our eyes of faith, we will see our future the way God sees it—bright and full of victory!</p> <br /> <p>I love what it says in Psalm 23:4 that even though we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, the Lord is with us. Notice it says “walk through.” It doesn’t say we are going to pitch a tent and hang out in those hard, dark places. No, it says we are going through; we’re moving forward. Be encouraged because you are going to make it through that difficult time. You are going to come out stronger, wiser, and full of faith and victory.</p> <br /> <p>I encourage you today to get your mind and thoughts focused on moving forward. If you have to, make a sign and put it where you can see it every day. I have a plaque hanging on my backdoor that reminds me of this very thing. In big, black letters it says “Move forward, I will be with you.” Our whole family sees it every time we are coming or going. Those words live with me, and whenever I’m tempted to be discouraged by circumstances, I am reminded to take a step of faith.</p> <br /> <p>Today, I want to remind you that no matter what’s happening around you, keep moving forward. God is with you, and He promises to deliver you. Stand strong in faith and focus on what lies ahead because there are brighter days right out in front of you!</p>
BlogAuthor: Victoria Osteen
BlogDate: 9/3/2009
BlogSynopsis: People ask me all the time, “How can you be so optimistic during such tough economic times?” The answer to that is simple—it’s not over yet! The scripture says that the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn shining brighter and brighter. We may be facing difficulty...
]]> MOSSDEV\kimberly Thu, 03 Sep 2009 14:23:26 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=114 Cast All Your Cares http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=153 BlogText: <p>We all have times when we feel overwhelmed with life. Maybe you feel as though you are carrying the weight of your whole family on your shoulders. Or, maybe you feel the pressures of financial matters weighing heavily on you. Maybe the burdens at work seem like more than you can bear, or perhaps, you've been caring for a sick loved one.</p> <br /> <p>If any of this sounds familiar, I have good news for you! You don't have to carry that heavy load alone. In fact, your heavenly Father wants to take that burden off your shoulders. He knows you cannot function if you are weighed down with a heavy load of cares and concerns. He wants to lift that weight and cut away the ropes of bondage that would try to hold you back.</p> <br /> <p>The Bible says to cast your cares on the Lord, releasing the weight of them. When we go around carrying burdens, it steals our joy and causes us to feel down and discouraged. It makes it difficult to have the strength to see a way out of our situation. Everyone of us has a choice in how we handle our problems. You may not feel as if you have a choice, and some problems can seem overwhelming. But your outlook and your faith in God can see you through even the worst of times.</p> <br /> <p>I'm not saying that it's easy, but God wants you to cast your cares on Him because He cares for you! In other words, God loves you and He's an expert at dealing with your problems. But, He's not going to take them from you; you have to be the one to release them to Him by faith today.</p> <br /> <p>Why don't you take a few moments to make a list of the things that are weighing you down? Then, say a simple prayer like this: &quot;Father, I've been worrying and fretting, trying to deal with these things on my own. I need Your help, and I'm willing to hand over control of these matters to You. I know You will handle them in the best way possible and that You have my best interests at heart.&quot;</p> <br /> <p>When you're finished, tear up that list and be determined not to take those cares back again! His yoke is easy and His burden is light. If He cares for the lilies of the field and the birds of the air, how much more will He care for you?</p> <br /> <p><i>&quot;Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about you&quot;</i> (I Peter 5:7, NLT).</p>
BlogAuthor: Victoria Osteen
BlogDate: 11/10/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,110
BlogSynopsis: We all have times when we feel overwhelmed with life. Maybe you feel as though you are carrying the weight of your whole family on your shoulders. Or, maybe you feel the pressures of financial matters weighing heavily on you. Maybe the burdens at work seem like more than you can bear&hellip;
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Tue, 10 Nov 2009 15:58:49 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=153 It's All in How You See Things http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=150 BlogText: <p>I heard a story about two men who were sharing a room in the hospital. Every day, the man closest to the window would tell his friend what he saw outside. He would describe it in great detail, &quot;Today, I see a beautiful sunrise&hellip;the kids are out there playing&hellip;the trees are blooming&hellip;&quot; The other man was not able to get out of bed, so he couldn't wait to hear about what was going on outside. It was the highlight of his day. One time, the man told about how he saw a parade coming by, a marching band, and kids celebrating and having a good time. </p><br /><p>This went on for several weeks until one day the man near the window died and went to be with the Lord. His friend asked the nurse if he could be moved to the bed by the window so he could enjoy all the great scenes he'd been hearing about as he remembered his friend. The nurse moved him over, but when he looked out the window, much to his surprise, all he saw was a brick wall. Ten or fifteen feet away was the other wing of the hospital. He called the nurse back in and said, &quot;Hey, wait a minute, what's going on? My friend described all these beautiful scenes for several weeks, and I can't see anything.&quot; The nurse smiled and said, &quot;Sir, didn't you realize your friend was blind?&quot; He was seeing it all on the inside.</p><br /><p>In the same way, I believe no matter what life deals us, if we have the right attitude on the inside, we can find the good. We can see the sunshine even when it's cloudy. We can stay full of joy even when things don't go our way.</p><br /><p>Today, remember that life is fragile. This day is a gift. Make the most of it. Don't take the people in your life for granted. Don't go around focused on what's wrong in your life; instead, find some reason to be grateful because the seeds of discouragement can't take root in a grateful heart.</p><br /><p>If you'll get up every morning and thank God for each day and then go through the day with a grateful attitude, I believe you'll be happier, you'll rise higher, and you'll live that life of victory that God has in store!</p><br /><p><strong>Update on New York Trip:</strong></p><br /><p>We have received such a warm welcome here in New York for the release of my new book, <i>It's Your Time</i>. Yesterday's book signing at the Barnes and Noble on Fifth Avenue was so amazing! Several hundred of our friends from New York and the surrounding area came out, many of whom had attended the Yankee Stadium Night of Hope Event. Tonight, we're looking forward to seeing our friends in Glendale at the Borders Bookstore on Cooper Avenue. If you're in the area, come on out and let us shake your hand; otherwise, we look forward to seeing you at one of our events or book signings soon!</p>
BlogAuthor: Joel Osteen
BlogDate: 11/4/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,104
BlogSynopsis: I heard a story about two men who were sharing a room in the hospital. Every day, the man closest to the window would tell his friend what he saw outside. He would describe it in great detail, &quot;Today, I see a beautiful sunrise&hellip;
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Wed, 04 Nov 2009 22:40:26 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=150 You Have Everything You Need http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=95 BlogText: <p>Before you were born, God, the great architect of the universe, laid out a plan for your life. He knew what you would need in order to accomplish that plan. He didn’t just randomly put something in you. He put in you exactly what you need to live a victorious life. Don’t ever let anyone convince you that you don’t have what it takes—that you’re not tall enough, you’re not talented enough, you don’t have the right personality. No, that is an insult to our God. He has equipped you to fulfill the dreams in your heart.</p>  <p> Years ago, there was a young lady by the name of Helen Hayes. She had a dream to become an actress, but everyone told her she would never be successful because she was too short. She stood less than five feet tall. She tried all these stretching exercises and had coaches put her on different programs to try to increase her height, but none of it worked. She didn’t get any taller. But, instead of getting discouraged and listening to the naysayers, she focused on being the best actress she could be. She took what God gave her and made the most of it. She tuned out the negative voices and ended up becoming one of the greatest actresses of her day. In fact, later in her career, she was chosen to play an acclaimed role of Mary, Queen of Scotland, who was one of the tallest queens that had ever lived. She received numerous awards and recognitions throughout her career and was an inspiration to the entire acting community.  </p> <br/> <p>Friend, no matter what things look like, no matter what other people say, God has equipped you with everything you need to accomplish your dreams. Quit allowing other people to tell you what you don’t have and what you can’t do! I’ve heard it said that “faith begins with stuffing your ears full of cotton.” In other words, you can’t listen to the negative comments because they only drag you down and hold you back. When those negative voices come to you saying, “You’re not going to accomplish your dreams. You’re not going to be successful.” Choose to tune those voices out. Remember, God Almighty—the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and End—He created you; He equipped you; He called you; and He chose you. You are enough, and you have everything you need to fulfill the dreams and desires He’s placed in you!</p>
BlogAuthor: Joel Osteen
BlogDate: 8/5/2009
BlogSynopsis: Before you were born, God, the great architect of the universe, laid out a plan for your life. He knew what you would need in order to accomplish that plan. He didn’t just randomly put something in you.
]]> Jeremy Lakey Wed, 05 Aug 2009 20:18:01 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=95 Put Action behind Your Dreams http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=117 BlogText: <p>I want to tell you about a teenage boy who grew up in Pennsylvania on a farm in a little town many years ago. Nobody in his family had ever left that little town. Generation after generation, they just stayed and worked the farm. But this young man knew that he had something different inside him. He had a dream to go to college; but in the natural, it didn’t look like he had much of a chance. His family was very poor, and they didn’t seem to have any connections. But instead of just sitting back and letting that dream turn into an empty wish, the young man went down to the local telephone company and got the phone directory for New York City. He searched that directory and found a certain department store that had 393 locations in and around New York City. He thought, “They’re so big, surely they will have a job for me.” He decided he was going to write every one of those stores and ask for a job.</p> <br /> <p>Back then of course, they didn’t have computers, and he didn’t even have a typewriter. He had to write 393 letters by hand. His goal was to write about 15 letters a day until he had written to each of those store managers. He told them he’d do everything from sweeping the floors to stocking the warehouse.</p> <br /> <p>A month went by, and he didn’t hear anything. A few more months, still nothing. Six months later, still no word. He was so discouraged and tempted to give up, but instead, he came up with another idea. He decided to catch a train to New York City so he could meet with some of those store managers in person, and hopefully, get a job. His family mustered up enough money for him to stay about a week or so and off he went.</p> <br /> <p>When he arrived in New York, he went to one of the bigger locations in Times Square. He found the manager and said, “My name is so-and-so. I was wondering if you got the letter that I wrote you about a job.”</p> <br /> <p>The manager said, “No. Even if you had written it to this address, we wouldn’t have gotten it. It would have gone to our main headquarters about five blocks away to the Personnel Department.”</p> <br /> <p>The young man walked over there and told the receptionist who he was and asked if he could speak to someone about a job. They took him into a big, fancy office where there was an executive sitting behind the desk. The young man was so nervous. He said, “Sir, my name is so-and-so. I was wondering if you got the letter I sent asking for a job.”</p> <br /> <p>The executive turned from his desk and put his hand on a big stack of papers. He said, “Yes, we got your letter, all 393 of them.” He smiled and said, “We knew you’d be coming soon. You can start this afternoon.”</p> <br /> <p>Well as it turns out, that young man not only went to college, but he ended up coming back to manage a whole region of that company’s department stores. What’s my point? The young man had a goal, a dream; but when he put action behind it, that’s when he saw his dream come to pass. </p> <br /> <p>When you take a step of faith, when you do what you can, God will direct your steps. He’ll make sure you come across the right people, the right opportunities, and the right breaks. As you keep pressing forward, God will keep leading and guiding you into the life of blessing He has prepared for you!</p>
BlogAuthor: Joel Osteen
BlogDate: 9/9/2009
BlogSynopsis: I want to tell you about a teenage boy who grew up in Pennsylvania on a farm in a little town many years ago. Nobody in his family had ever left that little town. Generation after generation, they just stayed and worked the farm. But this young man knew that he had something different inside him. He had a dream to go to college; but in the natural, it didn’t look like he had...
]]> MOSSDEV\kimberly Wed, 09 Sep 2009 07:13:16 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=117 In Honor of Veteran’s Day http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=154 BlogText: <p>Victoria and I would like to thank all the veterans and active military personnel for your service and dedication to our country. We pray for the health and safety of you and your family. May God's grace be with you to strengthen and empower you, and may He overwhelm you with His peace.</p> <br /> <p><strong>Who Are You?</strong></p> <br /> <p>There's a woman who has been part of our church for many years. Her name is Gabriela or &quot;Gaby&quot; as her friends call her. Gaby has been a professional photographer in Houston, shooting as many as fifty weddings in a year. She worked so hard that she finally needed to take a break to focus more on her husband and four children, so she decided to take a couple of years off. However, when she was ready to return; unfortunately, the economy was in a downturn.</p> <br /> <p>Like millions of professionals across the country, Gaby had to step back and look at other options. To her credit, she did not despair. Instead, Gaby decided to go after her dream. You see, for ten years Gaby had a secret desire to be the official photographer for us at Lakewood Church. She didn't tell anyone about her dream. We knew her and were well aware of her talents. She'd done many family portraits and weddings for our church and staff members. (She even made my brother, Paul, look good and that's no easy task!) However, we might not have ever known that Gaby wanted to work for us if her family had not encouraged her to step out in faith and take hold of her dream.</p> <br /> <p>One morning, Gaby woke up and found a message on her bathroom mirror that read, &quot;Who are you?&quot; Then, when she went into the kitchen, there was another note by the coffee pot, &quot;Who are you?&quot; She went into the living room and found another sign. Everywhere she looked, all over the house, her family posted signs urging her to pursue her divine destiny. Finally, Gaby decided to make a move by asking for a five-minute interview with one of our executives. When she completed her presentation, he welcomed her on the team. He told her, &quot;The fact that you are in my office today is just amazing. Just last week I had a meeting with Joel, and we discussed the need to hire a photographer to cover what's happening here.&quot;</p> <br /> <p>Today, Gaby is our church photographer, but only because she made the move to take hold of her dream and embrace her God-given destiny!</p> <br /> <p>What is the dream God has placed in your heart? It's time to take hold of it. It's time to take a step of faith. It's time to embrace your God-given destiny. Even if you don't see how it can happen, know that God is working behind the scenes on your behalf. He's ordering your steps. He's aligning the right people and the right opportunities to carry you into your destiny.</p> <br /> <p><i>Learn more about taking hold of your dreams in Joel's new book,<a href="http://www.joelosteen.com/LandingPages/Pages/ItsYourTime.aspx">It's Your Time</a>.</i></p>
BlogAuthor: Joel Osteen
BlogDate: 11/11/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,111
BlogSynopsis: Victoria and I would like to thank all the veterans and active military personnel for your service and dedication to our country. We pray for the health and safety of you and your family. May God's grace be with you to strengthen and empower you&hellip;
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Wed, 11 Nov 2009 17:15:22 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=154 The Power of Kindness http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=151 BlogText: <p>It's amazing what can happen when you are kind and considerate to others. Whether it's a friend, family member, or even a total stranger, simply being kind can open the door for God's favor and kindness to be poured back onto you. </p> <br /> <p>A while back, my brother, Don, was out looking for a new car and thought he had found the one he wanted. The salesman was going to get him some additional information, so Don gave the man his phone number to follow up with him. Several days passed, and Don changed his mind about that particular car. One evening, Don had just come home after a long day at work and sat down to a wonderful bowl of hot noodle soup—his favorite on a cold night. He was just starting to relax when his daughter came running over with the phone. &quot;Daddy, Daddy! There's someone on the phone for you.&quot; Reluctantly, Don took the call only to discover it was the salesperson from the car dealership. As soon as he said hello, the salesperson started going on and on about the car Don had looked at more than a week ago. Don was trying to be as nice as possible and said, &quot;Thank you, but I've decided that car is not big enough, and I have changed my mind.&quot; The salesman went on and on about how great the car was, as if he didn't even hear what Don had said. Don just sat there staring at that big bowl of noodles—getting cold—trying to be as nice as possible. &quot;Sir, I've changed my mind about that car,&quot; Don said, but the man just continued to try to talk Don into that car. &quot;Would you like to speak with my sales manager?&quot; he asked. Don took a deep breath and had several responses rolling around in his head when suddenly he heard himself say, &quot;Yes.&quot; Immediately, he thought, <i>did I just say yes?</i> During the brief moment of silence, he kept reminding himself to be nice and courteous even though he really wanted to hang up so he could enjoy his dinner! </p> <br /> <p>The manager got on the phone and introduced himself and said, &quot;I just want to ask you a question—&quot; &quot;Thank you,&quot; Don replied, &quot;but really, I've changed my mind about that car.&quot; The manager interrupted, &quot;Are you Victoria Osteen's brother?&quot; he asked. &quot;Yes,&quot; Don responded. The manager continued, &quot;I go to Lakewood Church, and even if you don't want that particular car, I want to help you find the car you want and get you the very best price possible.&quot; </p> <br /> <p>Don hardly knew what to say, but he was grateful he chose to be kind and courteous! Because of his response, God was able to bring him a divine connection. Several weeks later, the sales manager found Don the car he really wanted and gave him a price he could hardly believe. </p> <br /> <p>God is no respecter of persons. He'll show you the same favor if you'll choose to be kind and respectful to people. Regardless of whether you are dealing with your spouse, children, grocery clerk, or a salesman on the phone; remember, you are God's representative. Be courteous, gentle, and kind to others and keep the door open for God to pour out His blessings on your behalf. </p> <br /> <p><i>Be kind to one another&hellip;</i> (Ephesians 4:32, NAS).</p>
BlogAuthor: Victoria Osteen
BlogDate: 11/5/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,105
BlogSynopsis: It's amazing what can happen when you are kind and considerate to others. Whether it's a friend, family member, or even a total stranger, simply being kind can open the door for God's favor and kindness to be poured back onto you&hellip;
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Thu, 05 Nov 2009 21:32:51 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=151 The Currency of Faith http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=149 BlogText: <p>I love what it says in Ephesians 2:8, &quot;For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God&quot; (NIV). Salvation is a free gift from God by His grace, but notice that it's our faith that activates that grace. And even our faith is not from ourselves, it's from God, too!</p> <br /> <p>It's like when my children want to go buy something at the store. They are young and don't have the means to work and earn their own money, so they come and ask me for it. I give them the money as a gift because they are my children, and I love them (depending on what it's for, of course!). I want to bless my children—how much more does our Father in heaven want to bless us!</p> <br /> <p>Now, suppose I gave my daughter, Alexandra, some money to buy a shirt that she really wanted. But what if she never went to the store and bought the shirt? Instead, what if she moped around the house because she didn't have the shirt she wanted so badly? It wouldn't make any sense because I've already given her the means to buy that shirt, she just has to step out and use her currency to take hold of it!</p> <br /> <p>We have to remember that God has given us the currency of heaven as a free gift. In fact, the Bible says that God has freely given us all things, but it's up to you and me to activate our faith. How do we activate our faith? By receiving it into our hearts and then declaring it by the words of our mouth.</p> <br /> <p>Today, what do you have need of? Activate your faith by declaring His Word over your life. Declare that every need you have is met in Jesus' Name! Declare that He is ordering your steps. Declare that favor surrounds you like a shield. As you step out in faith, God will show His grace. He'll fulfill every promise and pour out His victory and blessing in every area of your life.</p> <br /> <p><i>Yet we have the same spirit of faith as he had who wrote, I have believed, and therefore have I spoken. We too believe, and therefore we speak </i>(II Corinthians 4:13, AMP).</p>
BlogAuthor: Victoria Osteen
BlogDate: 11/3/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,103
BlogSynopsis: I love what it says in Ephesians 2:8, &quot;For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God&quot; (NIV). Salvation is a free gift from God by His grace, but notice that it's our faith that activates that grace&hellip;
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:56:22 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=149 It’s Already Yours http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=121 BlogText: <p>Back in 1988 when my father was Pastor of Lakewood, we had just built a new sanctuary. There was a large steel frame building on the property that we didn’t need anymore, and you could actually take all the steel beams down and move it to another location.</p> <br /> <p>My father decided to give that building to our friend, Tommy, who does youth ministry. It was extremely valuable, and Tommy was so grateful that my father gave it to him. But Tommy didn’t come pick it up for quite some time. Every time I drove by that building, I thought to myself “there’s Tommy’s building.” About two years later, Tommy came with a big crew and the cranes. They dismantled the building and moved it to his location.</p> <br /> <p>Here’s my point: that building didn’t become Tommy’s when he came to pick it up; it became his the moment my father spoke it. That building could have stayed on our property for 20 years, but it still would have been Tommy’s. My father gave it to him, and it was up to him to come and get it.</p> <br /> </p>In the same way, God has all kinds of blessings and promises stored up for you. They already have your name on them. He’s already spoken it. Now it’s up to you to come get them!</p> <br /> <p>In Ephesians God says, “I have blessed you with every spiritual blessing.” In Colossians He says, “I have made you worthy.” In Psalms, “I have surrounded you with favor as a shield.” All past tense—it’s already happened. Now we’ve got to do our part and come into agreement with God. We have to “pick up” His promises from the Word of God and allow them to sink down on the inside of us.</p> <br /> <p>When you get into agreement with God, something supernatural happens. It opens the door for God to release all those blessings and promises with your name on them. Choose today to get into agreement with God. Declare what He declares over you. Follow His commands and watch how He opens the windows of heaven to pour out His abundant blessing in every area of your life. </p>
BlogAuthor: Joel Osteen
BlogDate: 9/16/2009
BlogSynopsis: Back in 1988 when my father was Pastor of Lakewood, we had just built a new sanctuary. There was a large steel frame building on the property that we didn’t need anymore, and you could actually take all the steel beams down and move it to another location....
]]> MOSSDEV\kimberly Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:29:07 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=121 God's Most Amazing Work of Art http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=100 BlogText: <p>Do you know how valuable you are to God? Do you know that you are accepted by God? That you are loved so much by Him? Sometimes people don’t feel worthy, they don’t feel “good enough” to receive His love, but you have to understand that His love for you isn’t based on your performance; it’s based on who He is. He never changes and His love never changes.</p> <br /> <p>See, we are His creation. The Bible says we are His work of art. Think about an artist who creates a beautiful painting. You have to imagine that he thinks about the image he is going to produce long before he ever sees it on the canvas. He carefully places every brush stroke with the entire painting in mind. Maybe there are times when other people see his “work in progress” and they can’t quite tell what it’s going to be, but the artist always knows exactly what he is doing. And then, when his masterpiece is complete, he is so proud of his work! He loves his beautiful creation! He’s poured himself into every stroke. The painting doesn’t have to actually do anything to earn the love of the artist. The artist doesn’t love it because it receives a special award or earns him money in an auction. No, the artist loves the painting because he created it with his own hands exactly the way he wanted to.</p> <br /> <p>I want you to remember today that the greatest artist of all time created you. He dreamed about you long before you were born, before a single brush stroke of your life took place. You may have days when you can’t quite tell what He’s creating on the canvas of your destiny, but He knows. He is pouring Himself into you, lovingly shaping every part of your life into an amazing masterpiece!</p> <br /> <p><em>For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things He planned for us long ago</em> (Ephesians 2:10, NLT).</p>
BlogAuthor: Victoria Osteen
BlogDate: 8/11/2009
BlogSynopsis: Do you know how valuable you are to God? Do you know that you are accepted by God? That you are loved so much by Him? Sometimes people don’t feel worthy, they don’t feel “good enough” to receive His love...
]]> MOSSDEV\kimberly Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:55:46 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=100 Pull Back the Curtain of Fear http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=141 BlogText: <p>Do you want to be closer to God today? Do you want to know Him better? There's a scripture I love that says, &quot;God knows those who trust in Him!&quot; </p> <br /> <p>One definition of the word <i>know is to recognize the nature of something</i>. See, when we put our trust in God, He recognizes our nature. He knows exactly who we are, exactly where we are, and exactly what we need. He can identify with trust, hope, and faith. </p> <br /> <p>I find this verse so interesting because the opposite of trust is doubt, fear, and unbelief. Those are qualities that are contrary to God's character. And do you know that fear isn't reality? It's only a thought in your mind. Did you ever see the classic movie, <i>The Wizard of Oz?</i> When Dorothy arrived at the Emerald City, the great Wizard of Oz appeared to be all-powerful and mysterious, and he made everyone tremble. He seemed larger than life. But when Dorothy and her friends pulled back the curtain, the &quot;wizard&quot; was just an ordinary man, blowing smoke, and pushing a lot of buttons. </p> <br /> <p>One of the most important things you can do in your life is learn to pull back the curtain of fear so you can see it for what it really is&ndash;<i>the enemy blowing a lot of smoke and pushing your buttons!</i> </p> <br /> <p>As you search your heart today, if there's a curtain of doubt or fear in any area of your life, make the decision to remove it and choose to trust God. Don't let anything come between you and your relationship with Him. Remember, He loves you with an everlasting love. He says He will bless those who are looking for Him and longing for His goodness. He is faithful, and you can trust Him with every detail of your life!</p>
BlogAuthor: Victoria Osteen
BlogDate: 10/20/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,020
BlogSynopsis: Do you want to be closer to God today? Do you want to know Him better? There’s a scripture I love that says, “God knows those who trust in Him!” One definition of the word know is to recognize the nature of something.
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Tue, 20 Oct 2009 19:09:34 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=141 Moments of Favor http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=145 BlogText: <p>A few years after Victoria and I got married, we were living in a beautiful townhouse just as happy as we could be. One day out of the blue, Victoria said, &quot;We need to sell this place.&quot; Now, I was perfectly fine in that townhouse, but as soon as she said that, a sense of peace came over me. I knew that she was right. In the natural, we could have thought, &quot;We're fine. We're comfortable here.&quot; But we paid attention to that still, small voice, that inward witness telling us, &quot;Something better is on the horizon.&quot;</p> <br /> <p>And so we went out looking. We knew every home for sale in every neighborhood within ten miles of us. We looked for months. And one Sunday afternoon, we found something. It was an old, run-down house—windows broken out, crooked floors, and water dripping from the ceiling. But it was on a beautiful piece of property and something deep inside said, &quot;This is a God-given opportunity.&quot;</p> <br /> <p>We sold our townhouse and took a step of faith to buy that old, run-down house. Amazingly, in less than three years, we sold that property for more than twice what we paid for it! That opportunity took us to a new level. Time and chance came together, and we took advantage of it.</p> <br /> <p>I love what David said in Psalm 31, &quot;God, my times are in Your hand&hellip;&quot; He was saying, &quot;God, I already know You have supernatural breaks planned out for me. You have the right people, the right opportunities, so I will not be stressed out. I will stay in peace knowing that You will get me to my final destination.&quot;</p> <br /> <p>Friend, divine appointments are on their way for you! Even if you're not seeing those opportunities or not making as much progress as you would like, don't lose any ground. Don't allow discouragement and disappointment to hold you back. Instead, keep a good attitude and do the right thing even when it's hard because that's how you prepare for promotion. Today, look for those divine appointments and follow the inner peace of the Holy Spirit because God promises that moments of favor are on their way!</p> <br /> <p>I talk about this story in my new book, &quot;It's Your Time.&quot; I'm so excited about this project and hope it is a blessing to you! <a href="http://www.joelosteen.com/LandingPages/Pages/ItsYourTime.aspx">Click here</a> to learn more about &quot;It's Your Time&quot;.</p>
BlogAuthor: Joel Osteen
BlogDate: 10/26/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,026
BlogSynopsis: A few years after Victoria and I got married, we were living in a beautiful townhouse just as happy as we could be. One day out of the blue, Victoria said, &quot;We need to sell this place.&quot; Now, I was perfectly fine in that townhouse, but as soon as she said that, a sense of peace came over me. I knew that she was right. In the natural, we could have thought, &quot;We're fine. We're comfortable here&hellip;
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Mon, 26 Oct 2009 18:40:54 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=145 It's Time for Restoration http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=146 BlogText: <p> We all have missed opportunities or blown chances at some point in our lives. Maybe you can look back and think, &quot;Why didn't I put more effort into that relationship?&quot; &quot;Why didn't I take that job?&quot; Or, &quot;Why did I spend all those years running with the wrong crowd when I could have been getting ahead?&quot; </p> <br /> <p> There are many reasons people miss out on opportunities and when you do, it's tempting to think, &quot;That's too bad for me. I'll never have that chance again.&quot; But the truth is that God always has another season. He is a God of restoration! He said in the Joel 2:25 that He will restore the years that have been stolen from you. Restoration is about reliving the past; it's about God making up for it so that your future is even brighter than if you hadn't missed those opportunities! God can make the rest of your life so rewarding and so fulfilling that all those wasted years just disappear. </p> <br /> <p> I remember a few years ago I was doing a book signing in another state. There were a few hundred people in the line when two ladies walked up, one in her 50's and the other maybe in her 30's. They were both crying, and of course, I didn't know what was going on. The older lady began to explain that this was her daughter. They had been estranged for over 12 years. They had gotten at odds with each other, and even though individually they wanted to make things right, there seemed to be too much water under the bridge for either of them to reach out to the other. </p> <br /> <p> Neither of the ladies realized that they both had been watching our program on television. Neither of them knew the other had decided to come to the book signing that night. When they saw each other, a healing began to take place. All the bitterness and unforgiveness began to melt away. That relationship was instantly being restored. And with big tears rolling down her cheeks, the mother told me, &quot;Joel, this is the happiest day of my life. God has brought my daughter back to me.&quot; </p> <br /> <p> Today, do you need restoration in a relationship? Your finances? Your body? God is no respecter of persons. What he did in the lives of these two women, He will do for you! Open your heart and receive it by faith today. Begin to boldly declare that this is your time for restoration! </p> <br /> <p> If this story was a blessing to you, there's more just like it in my new book, &quot;It's Your Time&quot; available November 3. Check out <a href="http://www.joelosteen.com/LandingPages/Pages/ItsYourTime.aspx">this link</a> for more information I want you to understand that God will restore you and set you on a course for total victory! </p>
BlogAuthor: Joel Osteen
BlogDate: 10/28/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,028
BlogSynopsis: We all have missed opportunities or blown chances at some point in our lives. Maybe you can look back and think, &quot;Why didn't I put more effort into that relationship?&quot; &quot;Why didn't I take that job?&quot;&hellip;
]]> MOSSDEV\derek Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:08:35 GMT http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=146 You Are Your Father's Child http://www.joelosteen.com/Lists/BlogEntries/DispForm.aspx?ID=152 BlogText: <p>Former baseball star, Jesse Barfield and his wife Marla have been members of our church for many years. Jesse led the Major League with forty home runs while playing for the Toronto Blue Jays, and he later played for the New York Yankees where he was known for having the strongest throwing arm in baseball.</p> <br /> <p>Jesse is the most naturally&ndash;talented, gifted athlete I've ever seen. Sometimes during the off season we would play basketball together, and even though it's not his main sport, he is ten times better than the rest of us! He's in a league of his own.</p> <br /> <p>He and Marla have several children, and I've watched them grow up. Their oldest son, Josh, was a star baseball player in high school. He went on to college and did great there, too. A few years ago, he was called up to the big leagues. Now he's excelling playing professional ball like his father. Jesse's younger son, Jeremy, is also a gifted baseball player and has made it into the big leagues as well.</p> <br /> <p>Statistics tell us that only one child in a million will ever make it to the big leagues. But Josh's and Jeremy's success doesn't surprise me—I know who their father is. I've seen Jesse play. I've witnessed firsthand his strength, his speed, and his ability. Baseball is just in their DNA.</p> <br /> <p>Do you know what? I know who your Father is, too. That's why I believe there is no limit to what you can do. There's no obstacle you can't overcome. I've seen your Father's accomplishments and victory has been passed down in your DNA. It doesn't matter if there's a one&ndash;in&ndash;a&ndash;million chance&ndash;there's no challenge that's too much for you! Your Father always succeeds, and you have been set up to live a victorious life!</p> <br /> <p>Last week, we had such an incredible time in New York for the release of my new book, It's Your Time. We were especially amazed to have about 1,400 people attend the book signing at the Barnes & Noble in the Bronx. This was the strongest turn out we've ever had for a book signing! The place was so packed and people willingly stood in line outside in the cold rain. Some had arrived in the early morning and waited all day for the 7:00 pm signing. It was my honor to be able to shake each person's hand and hear about what God is doing in their lives. My hope is that <a href="/LandingPages/Pages/ItsYourTime.aspx">this book</a> will be an inspiration for people to keep pressing forward to embrace all God has in store.</p>
BlogAuthor: Joel Osteen
BlogDate: 11/9/2009
BlogInt: 20,091,109
BlogSynopsis: Former baseball star, Jesse Barfield and his wife Marla have been members of our church for many years. Jesse led the Major League with forty home runs while playing for the Toronto Blue Jays, and he later played for the New York Yankees where he was known for having the strongest throwing arm in baseball&hellip;
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