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All Things Are Working for Your Good
Find comfort in dark times and grow your trust and faith in God with this inspiring and insightful guide from Lakewood Church pastor and #1 New York Times bestselling author Joel Osteen.
All of us will go through dark times that we don't a difficulty with a friend, an unfair situation at work, a financial setback, an unexpected illness, a divorce, or the loss of a loved one. Those types of experiences are part of the human journey. But when we find ourselves in such a place, it's important that we keep a positive perspective. Joel Osteen writes that if we stay in faith and keep a good attitude when we go through challenges, we will not only grow, but we will see how all things work together for our good. Through practical applications and scriptural insight, Blessed in the Darkness focuses on how to draw closer to God and trust Him when life doesn't make sense.
If we will go through the dark place in the valley trusting, believing, and knowing that God is still in control, we will come to the table that is already prepared for us, where our cup runs over.
All of us will go through dark times that we don't a difficulty with a friend, an unfair situation at work, a financial setback, an unexpected illness, a divorce, or the loss of a loved one. Those types of experiences are part of the human journey. But when we find ourselves in such a place, it's important that we keep a positive perspective. Joel Osteen writes that if we stay in faith and keep a good attitude when we go through challenges, we will not only grow, but we will see how all things work together for our good. Through practical applications and scriptural insight, Blessed in the Darkness focuses on how to draw closer to God and trust Him when life doesn't make sense.
If we will go through the dark place in the valley trusting, believing, and knowing that God is still in control, we will come to the table that is already prepared for us, where our cup runs over.
304 pages, Paperback
Published August 28, 2018
375 people are currently reading
1360 people want to read
About the author
Joel Osteen
541 books1,689 followersJOEL OSTEEN is the author of seven New York Times bestsellers. He is the senior pastor of America's largest congregation, Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas. More than 45,000 people attend services there every week. His televised messages are seen by more than 10 million viewers each week in the United States, and millions more in 100 nations around the world. His 24-hour channel on SiriusXM Satellite Radio and millions of social media followers have prompted numerous publications to name him as one of the most influential Christian leaders in the world. He resides in Houston with his wife, Victoria, and their children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
October 30, 2017
So Very powerful!
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Joel Osteen has written a brand new book that deals precisely with being able to see the blessing inside of the darkness. He explains how God promises He will walk with us and lead us through still waters. He is promising us as we walk through the valley that He will be with us through the struggles. And on the other side we will be rewarded with greater blessings.
I hadn’t even got past chapter one and I found myself reading with tears streaming down my face. Even as I’m writing this I’m becoming emotional because I know there are greater blessings on the other side of the struggle, in the darkness. We just have to continue to put our faith in God and know that He is preparing us for better things. For bigger blessings. And has Joel reminds us, God didn’t bring us this far to leave us now so we have to remain faithful.
This book is a blessing in itself. A reminder that we all have the peaks and the valleys in our life. Whether it be sickness, finances, death of loved ones, family or employment issues; whatever your struggles may be, God is always with us and preparing us for something better. He will heal the brokenness. You won’t be empty-handed. We will never be mediocre as long as we believe in God and his blessings.
If you know someone who has a broken spirit, do them a favor and give them this book. And pick up a copy for yourself. You might look at your struggles a little bit different. You will find there are blessings in the darkness.
*copy received for review consideration
Full review - http://amidlifewife.com/blessed-in-th...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Joel Osteen has written a brand new book that deals precisely with being able to see the blessing inside of the darkness. He explains how God promises He will walk with us and lead us through still waters. He is promising us as we walk through the valley that He will be with us through the struggles. And on the other side we will be rewarded with greater blessings.
I hadn’t even got past chapter one and I found myself reading with tears streaming down my face. Even as I’m writing this I’m becoming emotional because I know there are greater blessings on the other side of the struggle, in the darkness. We just have to continue to put our faith in God and know that He is preparing us for better things. For bigger blessings. And has Joel reminds us, God didn’t bring us this far to leave us now so we have to remain faithful.
This book is a blessing in itself. A reminder that we all have the peaks and the valleys in our life. Whether it be sickness, finances, death of loved ones, family or employment issues; whatever your struggles may be, God is always with us and preparing us for something better. He will heal the brokenness. You won’t be empty-handed. We will never be mediocre as long as we believe in God and his blessings.
If you know someone who has a broken spirit, do them a favor and give them this book. And pick up a copy for yourself. You might look at your struggles a little bit different. You will find there are blessings in the darkness.
*copy received for review consideration
Full review - http://amidlifewife.com/blessed-in-th...
March 21, 2018
I like this author. He has a positive message that he perpetuates with great passion. Given all the drama in my current work place, I thought that this was just what I needed, but for some reason, it didn't have as great of an effect on me as I had hoped for. While I appreciate the positive message, there were some things I strongly disagreed with. There was also a fair amount of repetition in this, so 3 stars. I still like the author but this book didn't do it for me.
October 31, 2017
Blessed in the Darkness confirms what I have always believed about life that are struggles have purpose.
In Pastor Osteen’s most recent book, “Blessed in the Darkness: How All Things Are Working for Your Good” Joel not only make a case, but provides plenty of evidence (both from the Bible and real-life examples) to support the belief that everything in our life happens for a reason.
I had always believed that my disabilities:
• being born with birth defects from the rubella syndrome including cataracts that left me legally blind and a constricted aorta,
• A sever speech impediment
• The diagnosis of ADHD
• Being verbally abused
• Depression
• Surviving an ischemic stroke to my spinal cord
had some purpose in my life. I had to believe that God would not have allowed those things to happen without a reason. In fact, I had to cling onto that hope I might not be as well-adjusted as I am today.
For years I lived by the theory that everything happens for a reason. I believed that I might not understand why something happened in my life that day, that week, that month, that year or even that decade, I might not even know why I went through a difficult time until I return to heaven, but I believed that everything had a purpose.
This book confirmed that I was not the only person who believed this
Osteen’s book is chalked full of examples, both from biblical and modern times, that show how God uses our darkest times, our biggest setbacks and our largest advertise to prepare us for what is waiting for us later in our lives.
This is a great book for anyone who has went through, or is currently going through, a difficult (or dark) time in your life. It will give you hope that there is a reason why God has allowed this obstacle to stand between you and your hopes, dreams and goals that He has placed in your heart.
The only drawback to this book is: I hate to say anything bad abbot this book, but some of the stories you either have read in Joel’s other books or heard him talk about in his sermons are included in this book, but do not let that deter you form reading this title. Joel has new examples to keep you so interested you won’t want to put the book down!
In Pastor Osteen’s most recent book, “Blessed in the Darkness: How All Things Are Working for Your Good” Joel not only make a case, but provides plenty of evidence (both from the Bible and real-life examples) to support the belief that everything in our life happens for a reason.
I had always believed that my disabilities:
• being born with birth defects from the rubella syndrome including cataracts that left me legally blind and a constricted aorta,
• A sever speech impediment
• The diagnosis of ADHD
• Being verbally abused
• Depression
• Surviving an ischemic stroke to my spinal cord
had some purpose in my life. I had to believe that God would not have allowed those things to happen without a reason. In fact, I had to cling onto that hope I might not be as well-adjusted as I am today.
For years I lived by the theory that everything happens for a reason. I believed that I might not understand why something happened in my life that day, that week, that month, that year or even that decade, I might not even know why I went through a difficult time until I return to heaven, but I believed that everything had a purpose.
This book confirmed that I was not the only person who believed this
Osteen’s book is chalked full of examples, both from biblical and modern times, that show how God uses our darkest times, our biggest setbacks and our largest advertise to prepare us for what is waiting for us later in our lives.
This is a great book for anyone who has went through, or is currently going through, a difficult (or dark) time in your life. It will give you hope that there is a reason why God has allowed this obstacle to stand between you and your hopes, dreams and goals that He has placed in your heart.
The only drawback to this book is: I hate to say anything bad abbot this book, but some of the stories you either have read in Joel’s other books or heard him talk about in his sermons are included in this book, but do not let that deter you form reading this title. Joel has new examples to keep you so interested you won’t want to put the book down!
December 12, 2020
"You lost a job, a position, a major client, but God has a new position, new opportunities, new levels for you. If you go through the valleys, trusting, believing God is in control, you will come to the table prepared for you. Into the fresh anointing, into increase where you cup runs over." (Joel Osteen, Blessed in the Darkness)
God has planned your future and it is a great one. All the things that you are going through today is not where you will end up in the end. You may be going through difficulties, a sickness, a setback, a bad break, but God is going to cause all these things to work out for your good.
Keep faith, keep honouring God. He will cause all things to work for your good and He will cause everything to work for your benefit, even the bad things that are occurring in your life. That's what this book is about.
God has planned your future and it is a great one. All the things that you are going through today is not where you will end up in the end. You may be going through difficulties, a sickness, a setback, a bad break, but God is going to cause all these things to work out for your good.
Keep faith, keep honouring God. He will cause all things to work for your good and He will cause everything to work for your benefit, even the bad things that are occurring in your life. That's what this book is about.
May 9, 2020
IMHO. Joel Osteen writes the best inspirational books out there.
They are all quite similar, say the great same messages, but bless me just the same.
They are all quite similar, say the great same messages, but bless me just the same.
January 8, 2018
-I called upon the Lord Almighty God in November 2017. I wept out. I was lost, confused, sad, and in pain. I did not know where else to go, I was scared and almost gave up on me.
-He answered my call on 12/8/2017 by sending his disciples and angels who delivered this book to me. It was placed on top of a trash can at a Bus Terminal. Of course, I checked around and waited. I was silently shocked, but I knew immediately, it was Him.
-God is real. He listens and loves us. God watched me and knew. (I am in tears as I recall the exact date/time/moment).
-Please trust in the Lord, listen to Him, and be obedient to Him. I do.
-I am forever grateful to Him and my Guardian Angels. They saved me and injected life back in to my soul, mind, and heart! The Lord spoke his words of advice, guidance, protection, love, and understanding to me...through Joel Osteen's Blessed in the Darkness.
Thank you. Amen.
P.S. When you ask Him you must listen; more importantly, thank Him for the breath of life, the sight to see, hands to write, feet to walk, organs to function, mouth to speak, ears to listen, and your abilities to be all that He has planned for you. Yes, walk your path, just know that He will be there to guide you along the way no matter the journey you choose. He is watching, always!
-He answered my call on 12/8/2017 by sending his disciples and angels who delivered this book to me. It was placed on top of a trash can at a Bus Terminal. Of course, I checked around and waited. I was silently shocked, but I knew immediately, it was Him.
-God is real. He listens and loves us. God watched me and knew. (I am in tears as I recall the exact date/time/moment).
-Please trust in the Lord, listen to Him, and be obedient to Him. I do.
-I am forever grateful to Him and my Guardian Angels. They saved me and injected life back in to my soul, mind, and heart! The Lord spoke his words of advice, guidance, protection, love, and understanding to me...through Joel Osteen's Blessed in the Darkness.
Thank you. Amen.
P.S. When you ask Him you must listen; more importantly, thank Him for the breath of life, the sight to see, hands to write, feet to walk, organs to function, mouth to speak, ears to listen, and your abilities to be all that He has planned for you. Yes, walk your path, just know that He will be there to guide you along the way no matter the journey you choose. He is watching, always!
September 14, 2017
I found this book to be an enjoyable reflection on choosing to believe the best, even in difficult circumstances.
Joel Osteen gives personal and professional examples of overcoming obstacles throughout the book, and compares the suffering and problems people face to a seed of faith germinating for later fullness.
There are many words of encouragement and kindness offered here - words that will no doubt linger with readers as they move along their path of faith with God.
Joel Osteen gives personal and professional examples of overcoming obstacles throughout the book, and compares the suffering and problems people face to a seed of faith germinating for later fullness.
There are many words of encouragement and kindness offered here - words that will no doubt linger with readers as they move along their path of faith with God.
March 26, 2018
All of us go through dark times that can test our sanity and sometimes even our faith. These times are a part of the human journey. We have to remain positive and know that God is in control. Pastor Osteen states that if we stay faithful and have a good attitude, all things will work out positively.
This was a good book when you are under a load of stress and need a reboot. Most of the book was super positive, but a chapter or two focused on the negative sides of different dilemmas. I didn’t feel as uplifted as I did from previous books I read from the author. But, I will read another book from Pastor Osteen. An advanced reader’s copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
This was a good book when you are under a load of stress and need a reboot. Most of the book was super positive, but a chapter or two focused on the negative sides of different dilemmas. I didn’t feel as uplifted as I did from previous books I read from the author. But, I will read another book from Pastor Osteen. An advanced reader’s copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
April 18, 2019
When everything is going your way, it's easy to count your blessings. But what about the times when absolutely everything goes haywire and it's hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel? That's when it's much more of a challenge. And this book specifically addresses those times, and shows how God can really be blessing you during those dark times. In fact, God may even use those times to further you, and cause you to reach and grow. Remember, without Goliath, there would be no David.
July 3, 2019
This is a very powerful book. This book showed me that there is always hope in rough times even when you think there is none. During these times it's difficult to stay on the right track. We just have to keep our faith and know that good will come.
May 18, 2021
I started reading this when I had lost all hope and was consumed by discouragement. After spending a year and a half working hard to advance in my job to no avail, I was defeated. This book completely changed my way of thinking and started giving me hope and encouragement. By the time I completed the book, I advanced in my job. I wholeheartedly believe it was because I had changed my perspective.
November 24, 2017
Narcissistic “I” Religion: Joel Osteen
Signs Autographs Like A Celebrity &
Saint Peter At Gates Of Heaven Will
NOT HONOR His Autograph As A Guaranteed Ticket Into Heaven! Mature People Live Humbled Lives! Book Rehash
Self-Help Has Similar Content “Other” Self-Help Gurus Nothing New Content!
“Large $ Profits” In The “Not-For-Profit” Religion Business, Plus “Prancing Status” Before Suckers!
Signs Autographs Like A Celebrity &
Saint Peter At Gates Of Heaven Will
NOT HONOR His Autograph As A Guaranteed Ticket Into Heaven! Mature People Live Humbled Lives! Book Rehash
Self-Help Has Similar Content “Other” Self-Help Gurus Nothing New Content!
“Large $ Profits” In The “Not-For-Profit” Religion Business, Plus “Prancing Status” Before Suckers!
April 1, 2022
He looks like a sheep, but underneath, he is a ravenous wolf! It's all phony. He is deceiving God's people. He starts out with pretending to pursue God, and end with his real goal for you- focus on success. Read KUNDALINI WARNING - Are False Spirits Invading the Church? By Andrew Strom. God showed me that Word of Faith is operated by the Kundalini spirit. Joel is a false prophet. This is a powerful spirit. It's a test. Read your bible. Kundalini twists the Word of God. Word of Faith tells you you need to tithe in order to be blessed. But where should you tithe? Is it definitely Joel? Do you believe in the fruits of their ministry? So he can get even richer while you stay poor. Does he not know what he is telling you is a lie? Or it's always God's will to give you wealth and health. What about Job? His story is our story, that we will lose things in this life. Doesn't mean we don't have enough faith. Read Jesus Goes To McDonald's by Luiz Alexandre Solano Rossi. Having a great life is a lie. When you become a Christian, the devil is after you. Everyday a battle, not a cushion. Or not to question those in positions of spiritual power. Yet Paul called out false teachers! Word of Faith movement is a bunch of garbage. If you accept it, you will, like me, have years of struggle, where you are looking for a "sign" God is with you. The only sign is His Word! They talk about not being "religious," as if an empty undiscerning mind ready to accept false doctrines is the Way to accept God. You must hold on to the true doctrine. Matthew 24:10-13 At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people. Because of the increase of wickedness, the love of most will grow cold, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. Once saved, always saved is a lie. To be saved, you must confess you are a sinner, that you put your trust in Jesus as Lord and Savior and will submit to Him in all things, including every part of your life, and with His help, that you will stop sinning. The deception here is really great! The manipulation is subtle, but with the Holy Spirit's help you can detect it. Truth mixed with lies is LIES. The positivity, the blabbing out promises without faith, the holding God hostage- Sure you can hold God hostage, but will He really find no falsehood among you? Joel Osteen is bewitching you, and lulling you to sleep. Watch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TB4QF.... See if these teachings really stand up to the light of the Word of God.
November 1, 2017
Sometimes the right book just happens to come along at the exact right time. This did live up to it’s title, offering much to think about, real-life examples and testimonies as well as Bible stories to further add to the points it made and some well-given advice. I appreciated that. I also appreciated that the author shared times he went through dark periods. It helps when the person writing about topics like this has some personal experience with it, and that is even one of the points he makes: sometimes God allows us to go through trying times, so we can help others.
The last two years plus have been filled with difficulties—the kind that really stretched my faith. I cried through the first chapters of this book because of the things I have been through, and I felt a release of so much that I had kept bottled up inside. After that, the ideas on how to grateful for this time, because of the growth made sense to me. Years ago, I read a book called The Christian’s Secret to a Happy Life which I got a lot out of. I remember one thing she said that has stuck with me over the years: after you accept Jesus as your Savior, no one can ever do anything mean to you unless God permits it. (That’s not an actual quote) Joel brought that to mind for me, and took the time to explain in great detail what that means for us.
The only thing that I was a bit unsure of was Joel’s statement that God will balance the books, and if we’ve been through difficult times, He will make it right. I’m not sure if the problem is my reluctance to believe that is always true that hinders this being true for me. So this is something I will continue to look for answers to.
I’m sure most people who take a look at this book to see what it is about, have experienced difficulties in their lives, and this book is definitely one that will help with understanding, acceptance and ultimately move on to acceptance and the ability to go forward.
The last two years plus have been filled with difficulties—the kind that really stretched my faith. I cried through the first chapters of this book because of the things I have been through, and I felt a release of so much that I had kept bottled up inside. After that, the ideas on how to grateful for this time, because of the growth made sense to me. Years ago, I read a book called The Christian’s Secret to a Happy Life which I got a lot out of. I remember one thing she said that has stuck with me over the years: after you accept Jesus as your Savior, no one can ever do anything mean to you unless God permits it. (That’s not an actual quote) Joel brought that to mind for me, and took the time to explain in great detail what that means for us.
The only thing that I was a bit unsure of was Joel’s statement that God will balance the books, and if we’ve been through difficult times, He will make it right. I’m not sure if the problem is my reluctance to believe that is always true that hinders this being true for me. So this is something I will continue to look for answers to.
I’m sure most people who take a look at this book to see what it is about, have experienced difficulties in their lives, and this book is definitely one that will help with understanding, acceptance and ultimately move on to acceptance and the ability to go forward.
February 26, 2018
The latest in the Houston preacher's collections of homilies. Give Osteen credit for having a formula and working it hard. Osteen will take simple, every day, experiences (getting stuck under a bench press weight bar) or just devices such as the navigational system in his car (remember those?) and turning them into lessons on God. As usual, the focus is God and not Jesus whom Osteen rarely touches upon. This may be related to Joel's very frequent references to his own father. This outing presents the same small set of stories about the senior Osteen as the previous books, they just seem to appear here with greater frequency. Osteen's vision of God may be an extension of an idealization of his father. Another tidbit to look for is Osteen avoidance of metaphor or simile beyond the central metaphor for that homily. Joel will use sentences such as "...running as fast as anything..." but will never employ some type of literary comparison. He also never seems to meet any new people, or at least any who make enough of an impression on him to make it to the book. This latest collection limits itself to the standard cast of characters nearly all of Joel's immediate family. Occasionally, someone addicted to drugs or inspirationally recovering from some other moral failing will appear but they normally do not even warrant a name.
Despite these idiosyncracies, Joel's simple lectures do carry a motivational punch and a strong relatability. You may have doubts about the verisimilitude of some of the tales he tells but most wind up being oddly inspirational. In short, read it, you'll feel better afterwards.
October 19, 2017
I am going to be honest, I am not a huge Joel Osteen fan, but "Blessed in the Darkness" was a great book that I really enjoyed and I think he did a great job with this book. We all have experienced seasons in our life where things don't go the way we have planned. Whether you have been in financial turmoil, difficult relationships or your family has been attacked, we have all faced trials in our life. However, it is what we do and who we look to in those situations that make us the people God has called us to be.
The main message of this book in that regardless of the issue or circumstance you are facing, turning to God when life doesn't make sense or when it's messed up, is the only way to find your way through the valley. When we come to him and truly seek his face, he will help us in the difficult circumstances of our life. Joel is transparent from his own life experience and professional experience of where he has faced trial and difficult circumstances.
This book is a huge encouragement if you are going through a stressful season in your life and you will find it inspiring as you seek the God of all wisdom who can help you through any difficult season or circumstance. God will work everything together for your good!
Thank you to to the publisher for providing a complementary copy for review. A favorable review was not required. I give this book 4.5/5 stars.
The main message of this book in that regardless of the issue or circumstance you are facing, turning to God when life doesn't make sense or when it's messed up, is the only way to find your way through the valley. When we come to him and truly seek his face, he will help us in the difficult circumstances of our life. Joel is transparent from his own life experience and professional experience of where he has faced trial and difficult circumstances.
This book is a huge encouragement if you are going through a stressful season in your life and you will find it inspiring as you seek the God of all wisdom who can help you through any difficult season or circumstance. God will work everything together for your good!
Thank you to to the publisher for providing a complementary copy for review. A favorable review was not required. I give this book 4.5/5 stars.
May 26, 2018
Blessed in the Darkness is truly a blessing! If you’ve been waiting a long time for a prayer to be answered or have ever asked God “why” about anything you’ll love this book! Pastor Joel really helps you to understand those “whys” and what to do when your prayers aren’t getting answered or the problem isn’t turning around.
At the very beginning, you’re encouraged. Reading this book was like walking through the “halls of faith” of Hebrews Chapter 11. Every personal example pointed to a faith chapter or verse. I was so encouraged to be surrounded by so many examples of faith and triumphant! This book really makes you excited about God’s power! It helps you to see how possible your situation is.
And I like that chapters are independent of each other. You can choose ones that are specific for you without feeling disconnected or as if you’ve missed something. Make sure you have a highlighter when you begin reading! You’ll surely come across something you’d want to keep going back to again and again!
I highly recommend Blessed in the Darkness. I loved this book so much, I’m getting audio version, too!
At the very beginning, you’re encouraged. Reading this book was like walking through the “halls of faith” of Hebrews Chapter 11. Every personal example pointed to a faith chapter or verse. I was so encouraged to be surrounded by so many examples of faith and triumphant! This book really makes you excited about God’s power! It helps you to see how possible your situation is.
And I like that chapters are independent of each other. You can choose ones that are specific for you without feeling disconnected or as if you’ve missed something. Make sure you have a highlighter when you begin reading! You’ll surely come across something you’d want to keep going back to again and again!
I highly recommend Blessed in the Darkness. I loved this book so much, I’m getting audio version, too!
August 13, 2021
I found my way to Houston over the summer and took advantage of the chance to attend one of Joel's church services. It was quite a show, an hour and a half, and as compelling as the last rock concert I visited. (I admit, that was about 30 years ago) There was music, modern gospel music, with 5 soloists, and there were a number of speakers. Then came Joel's turn. He spoke without notes for half an hour, and the message was purely positive. I felt, while listening, that even among skeptics Joel's message would be uplifting, extremely so. It was a very worthwhile experience, and I would recommend it to anyone.
Joel's book, All Things Are Working For Your Good, is, no surprise, also extremely uplifting. Joel contends that there is good in every experience - "It's all good." He suggests that weathering "dark places" develops character, and he recommends grace as a response. He contends that enemies and obstacles are necessary to build character, advocating the use of trouble to achieve the same outcome.
Working in a Joel Osteen-environment would be, in my opinion, terrific. It's hard to imagine his
Joel's book, All Things Are Working For Your Good, is, no surprise, also extremely uplifting. Joel contends that there is good in every experience - "It's all good." He suggests that weathering "dark places" develops character, and he recommends grace as a response. He contends that enemies and obstacles are necessary to build character, advocating the use of trouble to achieve the same outcome.
Working in a Joel Osteen-environment would be, in my opinion, terrific. It's hard to imagine his
January 17, 2022
Tbh, I'm not actually a fan of Joel Osteen. Initially I thought his preachings are all prosperity gospels which from a Christian point of view, is incomplete and inaccurate. The Lord Jesus clearly said that in this world we will have trouble and that's true. This is a fallen world and though we may have promises from God, the truth is those promises may not materialize in our lifetime. Case in point Abraham -- he did not saw the promised land nor the multitudes of generation that he will fathered.
However, there is also the other side of the coin. Though yes, some promises may not be realized in this lifetime, there are also some that could come true. The author emphasized the stories of Joseph and David's though they may seemed to have hardships in their lives at some points, God used those dark times for their good and eventually for His glory.
Joel is such a positive person and I'm drawn to that positivities reading this book. I got a lot of encouragement and powerful insights. His not a motivator from the secular perspective but his ways of motivation comes from the Word of God. I would love to read his other books too.
However, there is also the other side of the coin. Though yes, some promises may not be realized in this lifetime, there are also some that could come true. The author emphasized the stories of Joseph and David's though they may seemed to have hardships in their lives at some points, God used those dark times for their good and eventually for His glory.
Joel is such a positive person and I'm drawn to that positivities reading this book. I got a lot of encouragement and powerful insights. His not a motivator from the secular perspective but his ways of motivation comes from the Word of God. I would love to read his other books too.
December 30, 2021
Very positive, and inspirational message(s) - obviously based in the Christian faith. The message that Joel delivers in this book is easy to read and parsed into easy to digest, small segments, which is very beneficial, particularly if you don't have a large chunk of time to devote to reading. The title is somewhat of a spoiler, so I will share that there is a heavy emphasis on resilience and knowing that you're never abandoned/alone, regardless of what you see or how you feel.
Not to take credit away from the author or the message within the covers (Joel always delivers an inspirational message that is very relatable), but I do feel that the repeated references to 2 of his greatest challenges gets both a bit redundant and could also be perceived as a bit arrogant (as he goes back to these wells to discuss repeatedly how he both overcame and benefited from these adversities).
It is worth the read, and it will leave you feeling inspired, particularly if you're of the Christian faith.
Not to take credit away from the author or the message within the covers (Joel always delivers an inspirational message that is very relatable), but I do feel that the repeated references to 2 of his greatest challenges gets both a bit redundant and could also be perceived as a bit arrogant (as he goes back to these wells to discuss repeatedly how he both overcame and benefited from these adversities).
It is worth the read, and it will leave you feeling inspired, particularly if you're of the Christian faith.
July 22, 2020
Joel Osteen’s Blessed in the Darkness feeds your soul with bible verses and some life lessons that will surely give you hope. The book is good for self reflection and also a great reminder that one must have faith in God. We might lose our loved ones, our jobs or even everything in life. Joel tells us that God will always be there for us. And reminds us that "This is not yet over for you, it could be the start."
Like the other books, Joel Osteen this never failed to bring God's words to your everyday life.
As you read every page you will be part of the story and every turn is life changing.
I highly recommend this book to those who are starting to lose hope or are stuck in a situation that seems to be unbeatable.
Since I love this book, I will give 5 stars for this.
Like the other books, Joel Osteen this never failed to bring God's words to your everyday life.
As you read every page you will be part of the story and every turn is life changing.
I highly recommend this book to those who are starting to lose hope or are stuck in a situation that seems to be unbeatable.
Since I love this book, I will give 5 stars for this.
January 10, 2023
Changed my life
When I was about 440 Lbs My friend gave me this book after I went to church Together we had gotten them for free but I had to be early so she gave me her and it saved my life I became a disabled athlete I went back to school and got 2° I'm a Honor student with the GPA3.9And I'm about to transfer to Finish my bachelor's ° then my masters I have a brain tumor that is not about2 start radiation as it came back However I know my set back is a set up for my Come back. This is just part of my story I grew up in the lower social class grew up in Stockton California Please do not let anyone label you must do those labels and make your own label!!!!! Four mental illnesses anxiety gone.
When I was about 440 Lbs My friend gave me this book after I went to church Together we had gotten them for free but I had to be early so she gave me her and it saved my life I became a disabled athlete I went back to school and got 2° I'm a Honor student with the GPA3.9And I'm about to transfer to Finish my bachelor's ° then my masters I have a brain tumor that is not about2 start radiation as it came back However I know my set back is a set up for my Come back. This is just part of my story I grew up in the lower social class grew up in Stockton California Please do not let anyone label you must do those labels and make your own label!!!!! Four mental illnesses anxiety gone.
October 17, 2024
Blessed in the Darkness was an encouraging read personally. I enjoyed the insights given in various chapters and I will carry some of the lessons I learned with me. Furthermore, I appreciated the author's linkage of personal anecdotes with Scripture, which shone a new light various Bible verses to me.
However, the length of the book could have been shortened if redundant phrases had been removed. I can understand the author wants to emphasise a given point, but after a few repetitions it becomes redundant to the reader. It is important to note that this comment does not discredit the lessons in the book.
I would recommend Blessed in the Darkness for any reader (particularly Christian readers) going through a difficult time who wants encouraging & life-changing lessons. The book does change your perspective from being punished to being blessed in the darkness.
However, the length of the book could have been shortened if redundant phrases had been removed. I can understand the author wants to emphasise a given point, but after a few repetitions it becomes redundant to the reader. It is important to note that this comment does not discredit the lessons in the book.
I would recommend Blessed in the Darkness for any reader (particularly Christian readers) going through a difficult time who wants encouraging & life-changing lessons. The book does change your perspective from being punished to being blessed in the darkness.
September 2, 2018
Everyone goes through difficult times in their lives. This book is about how God will help you through those hard times and use them to promote you. God uses the challenges in the dark times to bring you to our destinies. Nothing can stop you from reaching the destiny God has for you except you. This is the message of this book.
Osteen always delivers a positive message of God's favor and this book is no exception. If you are a fan of Joel Osteen, I believe this is one of his best books. If you are facing challenges in your life and want a positive message to help you through, this is a great book for you.
Osteen always delivers a positive message of God's favor and this book is no exception. If you are a fan of Joel Osteen, I believe this is one of his best books. If you are facing challenges in your life and want a positive message to help you through, this is a great book for you.
March 4, 2018
I was grateful enough to receive an e-copy of this novel through NetGalley! All that is asked of me is to give an honest review and that's what I plan to do here. This is another "spoiler-free" review. It's nonfiction and hard to spoil. This book is currently out! It came out on the 24th of this month. So, you can go ahead and grab a copy if you are interested. :)
Okay, so if you aren't aware I am a Christian. don't talk about my faith too much because of how negative people can be. Of course if you are not religious then this review/book isn't for you. I love to grow in my walk with God and I was happy to receive this book, because Joel is one of my favorite pastors. Anyway, if y'all are interested I could always do a separate post about my experiences with religion and I can share my story. Just let me know in the comments!
This book is definitely a book I would read again. It's such a good book to read a little every day. I didn't do that but I definitely would in the future. Joel has such an amazing way of explaining things and describing things that made this book very easy to read. This book was very enjoyable because of how Joel writes and how he teaches.
"In the dark places you pray more, you draw closer to God, and you take more time to get quiet and listen to what He's saying."
This book is about trusting God through the hard times. It's very easy to get off track and discouraged when you're going through a hard time. This book helps to show you that you need to stay in faith even when everything seems to be going wrong. It teaches you that if you keep a positive attitude and you stay thankful for what God is bringing your way then you will look at life in a more positive light. Instead of getting upset over small or big things you'll be able to trust God and you can be confident knowing you're in the palm of His hand's.
This book was really good to read this month because I have had some pretty rough days but this book has taught me to turn to God more. I know that for me I usually question God and why bad things are happening and I wonder if it's my fault, but this book lets you know that we need these hard times in order to grow spiritually, mentally, physically, and emotionally. This book definitely helped me grow closer to God.
This book could get repetitive, but I don't think it was repetitive in a bad way. I think it really helped to drive the point across and really get it into my head that bad times are exactly that. Bad time. They're not forever, they're just periods that everyone goes through.
"To have no opposition, no problems, and nobody coming against you may sound good, but it will stunt your growth."
It's very easy to lose faith and lose hope when you are having troubles or going through some tough stuff. Joel does a great way of showing that even if you're hurting that God has something better in store for you if you keep faith. If you make sure you let God know that you trust Him then he'll deliver you through the pain and hard times.
Joel also has great examples throughout the book of real life situations that people have been through and how they kept a positive attitude and they put their trust in God and how He showed them the light. I think having real examples of people going through difficult situations and then showing how God changed things for them is just amazing. It shows just how amazing He is and what he can do if we just put our trust in Him.
There are so many amazing points Joel makes throughout the whole novel. Just so many things I never even thought of that are all so true. He does an amazing way of making you realize that if you just change your thinking, just shift it a little, that it can open doors and give you so much happiness. It's not easy but it is possible and he let's you know that. He talks about how sometimes it will take years even for things to change in your life, but at the end of it all it's still just a period in your life. The darkness doesn't last forever.
Everyone has hard times. No one can avoid that not even Christians. A lot of people think that just because you're Christian that you think, Nothing will happen to me because I have God, that's not how it is. We realize that we will go through bad times, but we know that God will always be there for us and he will be enough. That's one of the points Joel makes that God will always do things for our good even if we don't understand it.
"He never said that we would understand everything along the way. God didn't promise that there wouldn't be any pain, suffering, or disappointment. But He did promise that it would all work out for our good."
Joel's writing is similar to his talking if you've ever watched any of his services. That's probably why I liked this book so much, because I love listening to Joel speak and watching his services. He's a very positive and happy guy and that reflects in his writing. He writes beautifully and it's just easy to read and understand.
I could talk about this book for hours but then you wouldn't have a reason to read it haha. I'm pretty sure I covered everything I wanted to. I didn't have any negative things about this book. I really enjoyed this book and I honestly recommend this book to anyone and everyone. It's great if you are struggling in your faith, it's great if you are curious and just like to learn about others and their beliefs, it's great if you're doing good in your faith, it's just a good book for anyone who wants to read it!
My blog: abigailsbooks.wordpress.com
Okay, so if you aren't aware I am a Christian. don't talk about my faith too much because of how negative people can be. Of course if you are not religious then this review/book isn't for you. I love to grow in my walk with God and I was happy to receive this book, because Joel is one of my favorite pastors. Anyway, if y'all are interested I could always do a separate post about my experiences with religion and I can share my story. Just let me know in the comments!
This book is definitely a book I would read again. It's such a good book to read a little every day. I didn't do that but I definitely would in the future. Joel has such an amazing way of explaining things and describing things that made this book very easy to read. This book was very enjoyable because of how Joel writes and how he teaches.
"In the dark places you pray more, you draw closer to God, and you take more time to get quiet and listen to what He's saying."
This book is about trusting God through the hard times. It's very easy to get off track and discouraged when you're going through a hard time. This book helps to show you that you need to stay in faith even when everything seems to be going wrong. It teaches you that if you keep a positive attitude and you stay thankful for what God is bringing your way then you will look at life in a more positive light. Instead of getting upset over small or big things you'll be able to trust God and you can be confident knowing you're in the palm of His hand's.
This book was really good to read this month because I have had some pretty rough days but this book has taught me to turn to God more. I know that for me I usually question God and why bad things are happening and I wonder if it's my fault, but this book lets you know that we need these hard times in order to grow spiritually, mentally, physically, and emotionally. This book definitely helped me grow closer to God.
This book could get repetitive, but I don't think it was repetitive in a bad way. I think it really helped to drive the point across and really get it into my head that bad times are exactly that. Bad time. They're not forever, they're just periods that everyone goes through.
"To have no opposition, no problems, and nobody coming against you may sound good, but it will stunt your growth."
It's very easy to lose faith and lose hope when you are having troubles or going through some tough stuff. Joel does a great way of showing that even if you're hurting that God has something better in store for you if you keep faith. If you make sure you let God know that you trust Him then he'll deliver you through the pain and hard times.
Joel also has great examples throughout the book of real life situations that people have been through and how they kept a positive attitude and they put their trust in God and how He showed them the light. I think having real examples of people going through difficult situations and then showing how God changed things for them is just amazing. It shows just how amazing He is and what he can do if we just put our trust in Him.
There are so many amazing points Joel makes throughout the whole novel. Just so many things I never even thought of that are all so true. He does an amazing way of making you realize that if you just change your thinking, just shift it a little, that it can open doors and give you so much happiness. It's not easy but it is possible and he let's you know that. He talks about how sometimes it will take years even for things to change in your life, but at the end of it all it's still just a period in your life. The darkness doesn't last forever.
Everyone has hard times. No one can avoid that not even Christians. A lot of people think that just because you're Christian that you think, Nothing will happen to me because I have God, that's not how it is. We realize that we will go through bad times, but we know that God will always be there for us and he will be enough. That's one of the points Joel makes that God will always do things for our good even if we don't understand it.
"He never said that we would understand everything along the way. God didn't promise that there wouldn't be any pain, suffering, or disappointment. But He did promise that it would all work out for our good."
Joel's writing is similar to his talking if you've ever watched any of his services. That's probably why I liked this book so much, because I love listening to Joel speak and watching his services. He's a very positive and happy guy and that reflects in his writing. He writes beautifully and it's just easy to read and understand.
I could talk about this book for hours but then you wouldn't have a reason to read it haha. I'm pretty sure I covered everything I wanted to. I didn't have any negative things about this book. I really enjoyed this book and I honestly recommend this book to anyone and everyone. It's great if you are struggling in your faith, it's great if you are curious and just like to learn about others and their beliefs, it's great if you're doing good in your faith, it's just a good book for anyone who wants to read it!
My blog: abigailsbooks.wordpress.com
March 16, 2018
I have read Joel's books before but this one has gone right to the top of the list for me. I am going through a very difficult time right now in my life. Something I never ever thought I would experience. Reading this book has given me hope that out of this awful circumstance I find myself in that some how God is going to work this situation out for my good. I have started to listen to it for the second time. I listened to it on Audio. Great read if you are going through a challenge in your life.
Definitely worth a read.
Definitely worth a read.
April 2, 2025
Encouragement.for Dark Days
I have many Joel.Osteen books and enjoy them all. I find his.books.inspiring and encouraging. We all have dark days, moments of defeat, times when we are filled with doubt and despair, like all hope is lost. In this book Joel teaches us that failure isn't final and that we can find.the.light at the end of the tunnel. Its about immersing yourself in Gods word and trusting in God to see you through. Its about keeping your faith in.challenging times and never losing hope. God has a plan for your life. Trust him.
I have many Joel.Osteen books and enjoy them all. I find his.books.inspiring and encouraging. We all have dark days, moments of defeat, times when we are filled with doubt and despair, like all hope is lost. In this book Joel teaches us that failure isn't final and that we can find.the.light at the end of the tunnel. Its about immersing yourself in Gods word and trusting in God to see you through. Its about keeping your faith in.challenging times and never losing hope. God has a plan for your life. Trust him.
November 4, 2017
Hope for the Hurting
The only disappointment I had with this book is that when I finished it, it was over. After the recent loss of a loved one, this book appeared in my Kindle at just the right time. One of my favorite chapters was one about being anchored to hope. The author ends on the right note, that your ending will be good, which is what the last chapter is all about.
The only disappointment I had with this book is that when I finished it, it was over. After the recent loss of a loved one, this book appeared in my Kindle at just the right time. One of my favorite chapters was one about being anchored to hope. The author ends on the right note, that your ending will be good, which is what the last chapter is all about.
January 10, 2018
A fantastic read as is all the books from Joel. A lot of insight in this book, not my absolute favorite, but definitely deserves a second read-through. It has opened my eyes to a new perspective on my own life and also my outlook on life. I recommend for any Osteen fan. This book will be cathartic and help you through those dark times.
January 14, 2018
Blessed in the Darkness is a little simplistic at times and full of trite phrases, but touches on finding God amid the disappointments and sorrows of life and powerfully shares personal stories of the author coping with his own challenges, especially his father's passing. It is a quick read and a nice salve for one who may be facing doubt in faith from sorrow or loss.
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