The Power of Favor: The Force That Will Take You Where You Can't Go on Your Own

by Joel Osteen

Learn how declaring God's love will bless you with favor and fulfillment in this uplifting book -- perfect for anyone who is determined to find success and spiritual inspiration.




God helps you accomplish what you couldn't manage on your own. With His blessings, you stand out in the crowd and get breaks that you didn't deserve. The psalmist said, "God's favor surrounds us like a shield." That means that everywhere you go, you have an advantage, a divine empowerment, and a key to open up the right doors. With Joel's encouragement, you'll see how God's goodness uplifts you every day. He wants you to reach new levels of fulfillment, new levels of increase, new levels of promotion, new levels of victory. You have been called out, set apart, and chosen to live a distinctively favored life.




When you realize you have been marked for blessings, you will feel the force of His favor and overcome challenges that you can't face on your own.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian, Audiobook, Spirituality, Faith

272 pages, Hardcover

First published December 7, 2019

About the author

JOEL 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.

Reviews

[Christopher Lewis Kozoriz · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The favor on your life is going to close the wrong doors, and open the right doors." (Joel Osteen, The Power of Favor)

Obtaining supernatural favour is your birthright as a child of the Living God! Jesus Himself increased in wisdom, stature, and favour with God and man (See Luke 2:52). And because He lives in you by the Spirit of Christ, the Holy Spirit; you as a believer are empowered to increase in favour with God and man! This book shows you how God does this in your life, employment, business(es), and even in your investments. It shows us that our job is not our source, but God is our Source. He can use our present employment as a source, but ultimately, He is your Source.

The chapters in this book are the following:

Chapter 1: The Force of Favour
Chapter 2: Declare Favour
Chapter 3: Favour Connections
Chapter 4: Distinctive Favour
Chapter 5: God is your Source
Chapter 6: A Public Display
Chapter 7: Favour in the Storm
Chapter 8: Your Set Time for Favour
Chapter 9: The God who crosses His arms
Chapter 10: Just One Good Break
Chapter 11: By This Time Next Year
Chapter 12: Commanded to be Blessed
Chapter 13: Exceeded Expectations
Chapter 14: It's On The Way
Chapter 15: Living Favour Minded
Chapter 16: Heavy with Favour

I listened to the audio version of this book, and I highly recommend that you do the same. The Author, Joel Osteen, is the narrator, and he teaches on the power of favour, and at the end of every chapter, he declares favour over your life. I found myself lifting up my hands, and receiving a download of the favour of God before I began my day.

One thing that he encourages you to say although-out the day is "God, thank You for Your favour." We can then stand and see the favour of the Almighty God come into manifestation in our lives. He includes real-life stories of those who have tapped into the power of favour, including, stories of himself, people in his church, his dad, and others.

A download of the favour of God will be released upon your life, as you listen or read this book!

[Robyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Encouraging and inspirational in message! Just what I needed!

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like this author. His positive messages are uplifting. He has certainly found his niche in life.

His messages and positive affirmations are all about belief and faith. Sometimes though, I wish it was a "roll-up your sleeve and let's get to work" jam session. Just saying. But I still enjoy these. So 4 stars.

[Trina M. Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Joel’s Sermons

I enjoyed reading the book and as always encouraged. I did notice several of the stories he referenced came from his sermons, word for word. I listen to Joel on his Sirius XM channel when driving long distance, so I get to hear several sermons and many are featured in this book. It would be nice if when he reference scriptures from the Bible that he gives the reader the book, chapter and verse, instead of just saying “the scripture says”.

[Amulya N Grace · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book of Pastor Osteen I've read and I'm happy that I picked this up out of the blue . Contrary to what people say about JO,I truly believe in this fanatic pace of life,we are called to encourage one another and motivate one another.Honestly,listening to Pastor Osteen has been a great help during my turbulent times.The book was a compilation of his sermons,but who doesn't need an extra dose of motivation?

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

In the Power of Favor, Joel Osteen has written a brand-new book discussing the favor of God on your life. He shares that God had things in the future for us to accomplish and God will give us favor to help us find our purpose. Joel encourages believers to believe that God has good things in store for us. He explains that favor can be a job promotion that we weren’t qualified for that we end up getting, finding our spouse in an unexpected way, eventually conceiving and having a baby we have been praying and believing God for, receiving a scholarship out of the blue, having our debts taken care of, business taking off, or receiving God’s healing. Joel shared countless stories from scriptures and how they experienced the favor of God. Some of these included Noah, David, Moses, Elijah, Joseph, Hannah just to name a few. In the book, Joel also shared how Lakewood was able to get the Compaq Center. He was disappointed when two properties that his church was looking at was sold. Then God opened up a new door and one of his friends called him and told him the Rockets basketball team was looking to sell the Compaq Center. He explains we need only the right people for us. We don’t have to worry or stress over trying to win the critics God can cause the right people to be for us and that will make all of the difference. He encouraged readers by sharing how just one touch of God’s favor can put us years down the road even if we feel like our dreams are running behind our timeframe.

I would recommend this awesome book to anyone who is ready to experience God’s favor and they are seeking some encouragement. Readers will get to connect with stories Joel shares throughout the book. One of my favorite Biblical stories he shared was about Hannah in 1 Samuel. She was barren and unable to have a baby and her husband’s other wife had many children and joked around and tried to shame her. One day, she prayed to God and Eli overheard her and told her that God would give her a son, named Samuel. God eventually went on and blessed her and let her have five more children after him. Joel explained how she asked God for 1 son and God fulfilled her dream and she received much more. God was able to exceed expectations for Hannah. I liked how Joel Osteen opened up about getting the Compaq Center. I enjoyed reading about how he met Victoria and how he encourages singles to believe that God can also do that for them. I connected with how Joel explained the power of favor and how God is able to open doors, bring healing, promotion, and help us to fulfill our purpose. If you’re ready to believe for God’s favor in your life, then read this brand-new book!


"I received this book free from the publisher, Faithwords for my honest review.”

[Krista · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I need another reminder of God’s love and desire to bless us, Joel is a great teacher of that. I enjoy his sermons very much and appreciate the positive message he brings. I’ve always believed that God can do great things, but sometimes I forget and need someone to say, “hey, don’t lose hope - God can and Will give you the desires of your heart!”. The ever-spreading disease of disbelief is one of Satan’s favorite tools to get us down and out. Any naysayer of Joel’s hasn’t actually listened to what he’s saying. He isn’t saying you’ll be rich tomorrow, or that all your problems are immediately going to go away when you pray. He’s telling us to put our hope and our faith in God, and keep them there. I hope this book blesses you as it has me, and I thoroughly encourage anyone feeling down to read, and believe, in Him, the author and finisher of our lives. ❤️✝️

[Peter · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of Joel’s best books yet (“Blessed In the Darknes” is still better!). In this book, Joel will show you what is God’s empowerment to those who love Him, which is called “favor”. Through the finished work of the cross, God’s favor in us can catapult our lives to unprecedented levels through Jesus’ love.

[Roxanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another book full of inspiration from Osteen.

[Zachary Houle · Rating 2 out of 5]

Joel Osteen has a bit of a bad reputation because he didn’t open his megachurch to those seeking to escape from the ravages of Hurricane Harvey when it hit Houston a couple of years ago. Granted, it may have been not safe to do so at the time, and he did open the church (and claimed the church had always been open). Whatever the reason for keeping the church shut (or not shut, but poorly advertised as being so), one cannot overlook the fact that the Mayor of Houston did proclaim a day of honour for Osteen for his efforts to rebuild the city after the hurricane blew on through. Still, the blot remains. Tell people you’re reviewing the latest book from Osteen, and you might be met with, “Oh, the guy who doesn’t follow Jesus’ teachings to help those in need.”

It might be an unfair blot because, in his latest book called The Power of Favor, Osteen comes across as a pretty positive guy and the type of person you might want in your life simply for his enthusiasm in his positivity. Basically, the whole book is about how God is about to bless you with his favour for no reason at all other than you’re a follower. Having trouble getting a job? No worries, God is going to bless you with one that’s above your normal pay scale. Having trouble finding a significant other? Hey, God is going to very soon bring into your life the most beautiful girl or the most handsome boy into your life. Suffering from incurable cancer? Well, God is going to take your cancer away and make you healthier than you’ve ever been.

Read the rest of the review here: https://medium.com/@zachary_houle/a-r...

[Cover Lover Book Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you’ve listened to Joel Osteen’s sermons on television or on his Sirius station, then you know he oozes with positivity and encouragement, so it’s no surprise this book offers the same. He shows how God is our author and His favor will make things happen in our lives we never dreamed possible.

God has put something on you that gives you an advantage, something that will open doors that you can’t open, something that will make you stand out in the crowd. It’s called “favor.” – excerpt from Chapter One

As I read, I could “hear” Pastor Osteen’s inflection—the rise and fall of his gentle voice—as if I were in his congregation or watching his sermons on television. His over-the-table conversational style is comfortable and reassuring.

Wear your blessings well. It’s the favor of God on your life. – excerpt from Chapter Nine

Though some of the examples in this book are repetitive of previous stories he’s shared in his previous books and sermons, the abundant theme of wearing God’s favor is bold, exciting, and uplifting.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.

[Leslie McKee · Rating 2 out of 5]

I've read a number of books by Osteen, and I've always enjoyed them. This one was encouraging, but it wasn't one of my favorites. I found it to be a bit repetitive, from his sermons as well as prior books. While it has a positive message, overall, the concept as described is a bit too easy: just believe and it will happen. Christians know that there is a bit more to it than that.

A number of Bible stories are mentioned, but there aren't any direct references, which bothered me. When reading books such as this, I do, on occasion, like to dig a bit deeper. I don't have time to also hunt up where the passage is located in the first place.

While this wasn't one of my favorite books by Osteen, I will likely check out his books in the future.

Some quotes I enjoyed:

"It's not because of who you are; it's because of Whose you are."
"Even though circumstances may change, the Source never changes."

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Power of Favor: The Force That Will Take You Where You Can't Go on Your Own by Joel Osteen is a great book about the favor of God in your life. Joel breads positivity and encouragement in this book towards the reader, which is great, especially if you are going through a difficult season in life. This book is all about how God wants to bless His children and while I think Joel takes the power of favor a little too far in the way that he writes, the concept is correct. God does want to bless His kids. He does want to give us favor in our lives. The concept in this book is true, but the methods of how God blesses and gives favor doesn't always look like the way that Joel describes, thus giving the reader a sense of a false perspective. I think this book has some great positive points, but it also has some things to be mindful of when reading.

[Lance Lumley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Many have a problem with Mr. Osteen's preaching only about the positive. Here in his book, he discusses the favor of God, which he terms the word favor as "goodness." For those that like his other writings, this book will satisfy the audience. If you read some of his other books, there is not too many new examples he uses; he tends to go back to the story on how his church moved to an arena, which is something that has been told many times in his books. Regardless of whether or not you believe his "all is good" preaching, this book will motivate you in a positive manner.
For an in depth review, go to : https://lancewrites.wordpress.com/202...

[Anita (Hearts and Whodunits) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joel Osteen wants to uplift others in his new book. The Power of Favor: The Force That Will Take You Where You Can't Go on Your Own is about trusting God to take you to new heights in your life. If you put your faith in God, trust Him and pray for His favor, miraculous things will happen.
I love the uplifting message in this book. I think anyone can benefit from this book, and I believe that we need a message like this coming out of the quarantine stemming from the onslaught of the Coronavirus. I pray this book helps you as much as it's helping me.
I received an advanced reader's copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

[Kevin Tumlinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

An eye-opening book

To realize and believe that we have the favor of God on our lives is life changing. What I appreciated most about this book was the simple fact that it reminded me of the many instances of favor that have occurred throughout my life.

Now that I see it, now that I have turned the focus of my belief toward it, the evidence of favor has multiplied in my day to day.

I am incredibly grateful to Joel Osteen for this work, and thank God that I found it. I recommend it his book for anyone seeking greater success, prosperity, health, and joy in their lives. Read, believe, pray, and receive.

[Paige Gordon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although it got a little repetitive at times, this was an encouraging book and if you need something to help renew your mindset and perspective it is a solid option.

Favorite Quote: “Sometimes God will take you through a difficulty to get rid of what’s chasing you... You may not like the difficulty. It may not seem fair, but you’re going to come out of that storm free from things that would have held you back your whole life.”

[Laurie Bower Lupin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Speak life, abundance, and favor using these powerful and biblical affirmations revealed by Joel Osteen. A very encouraging read! I listened to it on audible and it’s part of why it took so long. It did sound like e was recovering from a cold near the beginning of the book. Yet, Joel delivers the same exuberance as he does with his sermons and podcasts. I recommend this book for anyone who’s feeling down.

[Adrienne Geller · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read several of Pastor Osteen's books and look forward to viewing his weekly sermons on Sundays. While I would hope that he would include "new" information instead of just repeating his previous sermons, I still benefit from reading his books and the application of his knowledge.

[Kathleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not my favorite of Joel Osteen's books, but his message is always positive and affirming. Although this book is extremely repetitive, the essence of the book is to believe and trust in God, to be true to yourself, never give up and don't be afraid to ask for help through prayer.

[Shannan Harper · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little repetitive at times, But overall not a bad read. It seems as if it's meant to encourage you to speak favor over your daily life.

[Donald G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome reading with a very positive message.

[James Cartwright · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been my first time reading anything by Joel Osteen. I was very impressed with this book. I loved the message, the word choice and prose. Reading this book I was flying through the pages.

[Di · Rating 1 out of 5]

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.

[Alan Tomkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Perhaps the most remarkable Joel Osteen book yet, and definitely my favorite. I am inspired and uplifted reading this one. I'm sure I will read it again and again to stay on the beam and be reminded of the power of God's Favor.

[T.S. Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book twice in a row. I will say that he has YouTube videos almost word for word in most of the chapters but I still got much out of this book from reading it and highlighting parts. The only thing I wish he would do differently is directly quote scripture instead of just saying it is in such and such book. But it is a great book to encourage you not to give up, especially when you are struggling.

[Aisha Tahar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the book. Absolutely uplifting and motivating. If you read some of his previous books some of the stories are repetitive but always refreshing to read them again

[Dwayne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding book

Very good book to read. I really got a lot out of the chapters mostly the last two chapters. Thank you very much

[Kathleen Klingenmaier-Vinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Joel Osteen is a very good writer and author. Through reading not just this book but his other book(s) I see he has truly 'found favor' he talks about it. Just saying those words are powerful.

[Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Inspirational and encouraging. Osteen narrates the audio and it's a wonderful listen.