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It's Your Time: Activate Your Faith, Achieve Your Dreams, and Increase in God's Favor
Get your hopes up. Raise your expectations. Your best days are in front of you. In challenging times, it may be hard to see better days ahead. You may feel as though your struggles will never end, that things won't ever turn around for you. This is exactly the moment to put your faith into action and expect God's blessings. It's your time to declare your faith, to look for God's favor, and to give control of your life to Him so that you can find fulfillment in His plans for you! It's Your Time to believe. It's not easy to always be optimistic. Life can be difficult, and in hard economic times it's not just your finances that suffer. Your relationships can be strained. Your health can be stressed. Bad habits can return and negative thoughts can take over. When one part of your life after another takes a bad turn, you can feel like there is no end in sight, no way out. The truth is, maybe you don't have an answer. But God does! Maybe you don't have the strength. But God does! It's Your Time for favor. In It's Your Time , bestselling author Joel Osteen, pastor of the nation's largest church, offers the inspirational truth that no matter where you stand in life, you are never alone. He reminds you also that the bigger your burden, the greater your blessings to come. You may have neglected God, but He has not abandoned you. He has already released good things into your future. As long as you're breathing, you can still reclaim His favor by renewing your faith and accepting His plans for you. It's Your Time for restoration. In these pages, Joel offers assurances that God does not want you to merely survive challenging times, He wants you to thrive. When you give your life over to Him, God will send opportunities your way so that you can soar to new heights of fulfillment. History has shown that the most difficult times can serve as catalysts for creativity, innovation, and accomplishment. If you hold on to your faith, ask for God's favor, and don't give in to depression or discouragement, you will emerge not bitter but better, not a victim but a victor. It's Your Time to trust. God already is working in your life to arrange the right people, the right skills, and the right opportunities to give you the tools you need to fulfill and exceed your dreams. Drawing from Joel's experiences and those of people around the world, It's Your Time offers messages of faith, hope, and strength to help you rise above any circumstance so that you can fulfill God's best plan for your life. It's Your Time to stretch. Joel has filled this book with bold new prayers, inspiring stories, and practical tools for moving forward in faith. You will find inspiration from others who have overcome adversity and achieved their dreams. You will find proven methods for not just picking up the pieces but for building a new life better than you'd imagined. The hopeful messages and warm encouragements in this book will push you to expand your horizons beyond what you thought you were capable of doing so that you might go even farther than you'd ever dreamed of going. It's Your Time!
320 pages, Hardcover
First published October 1, 2009
235 people are currently reading
2420 people want to read
About the author
Joel Osteen
542 books1,694 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 203 reviews
February 2, 2012
I try to read this book most nights before going to bed, at least a few pages. Why? Because the human spirit gets beaten and battered each day and at the end of it, you need something to soften the blow. I read it to rekindle my hope in myself and my dreams. They are possible but sometimes life has a way of undermining them. I thank God that Joel has this book to put a smile on my face and heart each night. Dont expect to read this book cover-to-cover, as it is highly repetitive. You'll read the same ideas and themes in every few paragraphs, so even 2 or 3 pages per night is fine. Reading this book is to your soul and spirit what going to the gym is like for your muscle... a must. And if you get a chance to watch Joel on tv on Sunday mornings, I'll guarantee you that it's worth the 30 mins.
June 19, 2023
As I have mentioned before in my previous reviews on Goodreads, whenever I need a shot of both faith and happiness I start to read Joel Osteen's books !
To be perfectly honest from the past 4 days I was feeling down and bored, I was so emotionless that I almost thought I had gotten depression, however I was like it's time to get my spirits higher so I started half way through the book and felt rejuvenated and fresh again.
His books almost work like a magic dust in disney cartoons lol
Despite the fact that I am a Muslim, I definitely love this preacher's inspirational books :)
Nov 2021 IRAN/Tehran
The autumn of 1400
To be perfectly honest from the past 4 days I was feeling down and bored, I was so emotionless that I almost thought I had gotten depression, however I was like it's time to get my spirits higher so I started half way through the book and felt rejuvenated and fresh again.
His books almost work like a magic dust in disney cartoons lol
Despite the fact that I am a Muslim, I definitely love this preacher's inspirational books :)
Nov 2021 IRAN/Tehran
The autumn of 1400
November 3, 2011
Joel Osteen's It's Your Time is an inspirational/spiritual handbook on how to change your outlook and tap into God's outrageous plans for you.
Did I say outrageous?
First of all, I listened to the audio version of this book, read by the author. A friend of mine recommended him to me and I saw this at the library while looking for a book on languages. Not sure why I picked it up, but whatever. I put the first CD in and heard a thick Texan accent calling me "Friend" and telling me I'm a loafer who doesn't dream big enough, basically. While listening, I couldn't help but imitate his accent every time he said "sitcha-WAYshun", and I sometimes blurted out "George Dubya!" at random moments. Please note that Osteen never mentioned George W. Bush, ever. It was the accent that inspired my outbursts.
That being said, and all ridicule and pshaw aside, I bought into it. I very nearly yelled out "Amen Brother!" and raised the roof. I caught the fever, and truly believed I was gonna win the lottery while listening to this.
Do I believe that now? Not so much. Sometimes I completely forget that I've listened to this book and get road rage. I get down when I contemplate my current "sitcha-WAYshun" and haven't yet prayed for my winfall.
Why give this 4 stars, then? Because it was downright FUN to get carried away and actually experience a fully bright-eyed outlook on life. I was revitalized and totally swept away for the hours I sat and listened, and that's a high that definitely deserves recognition. I will probably listen to this again when I need a smile, even if that smile only comes while I laugh at myself yelling "George Dubya!" at unsuspecting drivers in nearby vehicles.
Did I say outrageous?
First of all, I listened to the audio version of this book, read by the author. A friend of mine recommended him to me and I saw this at the library while looking for a book on languages. Not sure why I picked it up, but whatever. I put the first CD in and heard a thick Texan accent calling me "Friend" and telling me I'm a loafer who doesn't dream big enough, basically. While listening, I couldn't help but imitate his accent every time he said "sitcha-WAYshun", and I sometimes blurted out "George Dubya!" at random moments. Please note that Osteen never mentioned George W. Bush, ever. It was the accent that inspired my outbursts.
That being said, and all ridicule and pshaw aside, I bought into it. I very nearly yelled out "Amen Brother!" and raised the roof. I caught the fever, and truly believed I was gonna win the lottery while listening to this.
Do I believe that now? Not so much. Sometimes I completely forget that I've listened to this book and get road rage. I get down when I contemplate my current "sitcha-WAYshun" and haven't yet prayed for my winfall.
Why give this 4 stars, then? Because it was downright FUN to get carried away and actually experience a fully bright-eyed outlook on life. I was revitalized and totally swept away for the hours I sat and listened, and that's a high that definitely deserves recognition. I will probably listen to this again when I need a smile, even if that smile only comes while I laugh at myself yelling "George Dubya!" at unsuspecting drivers in nearby vehicles.
February 24, 2010
This is an amazing book, i've seen Joel in person and what an amazing man he truly is. I think everyone should read one or more of his books. You will find it spiritually sound and motivating.
October 21, 2020
If I were a better person, I'd probably find Joel Osteen less hilarious. But what can a girl do? The man just has a natural talent for smutty punny spooneristic slip-ups, and I'm a sucker for that kind of thing. Très serieusement, you tellin' me you can hear someone talk about 'depositing something on the inside' for the eighteenth time, without a smirk? And that's just the first one that comes to mind.
That said, it's hardly controversial to describe ol' Joe as problematic. The gay marriage thing was an appalling debacle, and left me sorely disappointed. My instincts say he's a natural liberal, pressured into retracting his initial generous open-hearted impulse by a tight-mouthed closed-minded section of the religious community that just isn't ready to extend love to all sections of God's folk.
It's still disappointing.
But he does have a gift, and the book's a pleasure, even including the odd smirk.
ETA: and now (21/10/2020, 17.25 p.m.) Pope Francis has completely trumped the bleeder. That's how you do it!
That said, it's hardly controversial to describe ol' Joe as problematic. The gay marriage thing was an appalling debacle, and left me sorely disappointed. My instincts say he's a natural liberal, pressured into retracting his initial generous open-hearted impulse by a tight-mouthed closed-minded section of the religious community that just isn't ready to extend love to all sections of God's folk.
It's still disappointing.
But he does have a gift, and the book's a pleasure, even including the odd smirk.
ETA: and now (21/10/2020, 17.25 p.m.) Pope Francis has completely trumped the bleeder. That's how you do it!
January 7, 2012
Okay, okay, I admit that I was skeptical at first when a friend gave me this book. We are both practicing Catholics and have shared the same struggles in our jobs and marriages in the past year-and-a-half. What have I got to lose? (Besides a little time.) I picked up the book and read it during this first week of 2012.
Once I got past Joel Osteen's mega-watt smile and too-good-to-be-true lifestyle that he leads with his Mega-Church in Texas, I started to believe that maybe, just maybe, he is right. He can come across as preachy and saccharine sweet and corny, but his message is powerful. We all have a dream in our hearts that are telling us to believe and trust in God that He will make it happen. Being a pessimist, it's not easy to give up on my doubts and the broken record in my head that says, "This is as good as it gets," "You must live with your mistakes," "Who do you think you are?" and "You can't be serious." I am my own worst enemy.
BUT, I think that there is hope for me, and for everyone else, who wants to BELIEVE that God is working in our lives to make us better people. Osteen's main message is that we are each placed on this earth to do great things. And all of the heartbreaks and failures that we face are only making us stronger to do more. I honestly believe that there is a great plan for me, and I know what it is, but I am really scared to try.
With Osteen's true-life stories of other's, and biblical examples, 2012 is going to be different for me. I am choosing to live in faith, and not in fear.
You hear the stories everyday: The plane that lands in the Hudson River and everyone survives. A man who buys a zoo and saves the animals. A writer with the worst dog in the world named Marley who gives him something to write about. On and on. It happens.
It's going to happen for me this year. It's not too late. This book has given me courage to try.
Once I got past Joel Osteen's mega-watt smile and too-good-to-be-true lifestyle that he leads with his Mega-Church in Texas, I started to believe that maybe, just maybe, he is right. He can come across as preachy and saccharine sweet and corny, but his message is powerful. We all have a dream in our hearts that are telling us to believe and trust in God that He will make it happen. Being a pessimist, it's not easy to give up on my doubts and the broken record in my head that says, "This is as good as it gets," "You must live with your mistakes," "Who do you think you are?" and "You can't be serious." I am my own worst enemy.
BUT, I think that there is hope for me, and for everyone else, who wants to BELIEVE that God is working in our lives to make us better people. Osteen's main message is that we are each placed on this earth to do great things. And all of the heartbreaks and failures that we face are only making us stronger to do more. I honestly believe that there is a great plan for me, and I know what it is, but I am really scared to try.
With Osteen's true-life stories of other's, and biblical examples, 2012 is going to be different for me. I am choosing to live in faith, and not in fear.
You hear the stories everyday: The plane that lands in the Hudson River and everyone survives. A man who buys a zoo and saves the animals. A writer with the worst dog in the world named Marley who gives him something to write about. On and on. It happens.
It's going to happen for me this year. It's not too late. This book has given me courage to try.
April 8, 2010
The third collection of, ahem, “sermons” from America’s premier prosperity preacher. The Great Recession means boom times for a new breed of televangelists pointed labeled “prosperity preachers” by the U.S. media and of these none is doing better box office than “Pastor” Joel Osteen. The seemingly non-aging (does he have a middle aged painted portrait of himself in his attic?) and photogenic as Julia Roberts Houston preacher has boxed up 300 pages of his latest corporate-level-consistent, uh, sermons and delivered them as his third book. Basically if you like his 9 parts motivational speaker / 1 part religion mix, how his Houston drawl comes across in his word choice (“chillbones”) and his Bush 43 grammatically structure and his nearly detail-free stories (“there was a man I knew once”) you’ll love the book. If you are looking for something different from his televised talks or his previous bestsellers you will not find it within his short inspirational vignettes. Mostly his messages are positive and are straight out of the Norman Vincent Peale school of pep talk, only rarely does his advice fly wide of the mark. Particularly cringe-inducing is when he talks about how God’s favor can be substantiated by qualifying for a mortgage you cannot afford – no that’s called fraud, Pastor Joel.
December 3, 2009
I just finished reading this book, but so far what I have read has been inspiring. I'm starting to believe that it is my time for blessings and favor!
Some of the content is redundant, but I suppose it may be necessary to reinforce the idea that it really is your time.
I also enjoy reading the blog that he and his wife Victoria writes. I like to start off my day this way.
Some of the content is redundant, but I suppose it may be necessary to reinforce the idea that it really is your time.
I also enjoy reading the blog that he and his wife Victoria writes. I like to start off my day this way.
December 7, 2010
(Taken from my blog entry: http://is.gd/ijTo0)
What were the issues then that led me to give this book a rating comparable to “poor”? Quite a bit. Sit back and have a nice cup of coffee or tea as you review this list with sometimes lengthy explanations.
1. Too long. From start to finish, It’s Your Time runs a little over 300 pages. The book has 23 chapters and is broken up into five different sections that include 4-5 chapters each:
* It’s Time to Believe
* It’s Time for Favor
* It’s Time for Restoration
* It’s Time to Trust
* It’s Time to Stretch
The best section, “It’s Time to Stretch” comes at the end. It’s unfortunate that decent Biblical teaching only occupies maybe 20 pages maximum out of 300 pages. His last chapter, however, “Believe For a Supernatural Year” reiterates the same tripe that he began with and it ended in lackluster fashion.
2. Too cheesy. Joel Osteen cites Marie Callender, Tyler Perry, Phyllis Diller, and KFC’s Colonel Sanders as a few “you can be successful too!” stories. The wealthy in America only comprise 1-2% of the population. The chances of Osteen’s readers becoming as successful as the aforementioned are very slim.
3. Too unbiblical. One of my greatest issues with this book is that for most of it, Osteen has people believing that God is a magic genie who will give you what you want if you rub Him the right way. But there are other things:
* Expect God’s favor and you get “every” thing. (quotes mine) From the very beginning of the book:
“God promises your payday is on its way. If you’ll learn to be a prisoner of hope and get up every day expecting God’s favor, you’ll see God do amazing things. You’ll overcome every obstacle. You’ll defeat every enemy. And I believe and declare you’ll see every dream, every promise God has put in your heart, come to pass.” —Joel Osteen, It’s Your Time, p. 16 (emphasis mine)
I’m afraid this is completely incorrect. We won’t get “every” thing nor does God promise us “every” thing.
* If you’re not in the right place at the right time, you could miss a God-given opportunity. I don’t buy this one bit. God will not allow you to miss out on anything you’re not supposed to miss out on. If it didn’t happen, it was because God didn’t want it to (for whatever reason).
* If you are good to God and tell Him how you’ve been good to Him, He will be good to you. Osteen uses the story of King Hezekiah who was struck with a fatal disease and after pleading with God and telling Him all the ways he’d served Him, was miraculously healed and his life was extended. Osteen essentially uses this example to say that it’s okay to “bargain” (quotes mine) with God in an effort to get Him to bless you. While we can talk to God and ask Him to heal us, bless us, or whatever, we shouldn’t use the things we do for God as bargaining chips. God is not a gambler.
* “God can turn back time.” You will be healthier, stronger, and younger as you get older. Just speak that over your life. I don’t even know where to begin in debunking this. He uses the example of Hezekiah asking God to turn back time as an example that God can do it. Yeah, God can do anything, Pastor Osteen. But he’s not going to stop time for us and basically what you call “turning back the clock” is really making up for lost time. Call it what it is.
* “All Things Work Together for Our Good.” I simply have to take issue with the title of chapter 16 because it gives the impression that all things work together for what *we* think is good, which in fact, is far from the case. Here’s the part of Romans 8:28 Osteen cites:
“And we know that all things work together for good”
When, in fact, the ENTIRE verse says: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Adding the rest of that really changes the meaning of the verse, doesn’t it? You get the impression that all things work together for your good, the way you want it to work out, however, the verse is saying at least two things:
1. All things work together ultimately for our SPIRITUAL good. The word “spiritual” isn’t in the verse so where do I get that idea? The prepositional phrase “to those who love God” means that “all things work[ing] together for good” is directed to those who are seeking God, a spiritual being. Spiritual good does not necessarily mean physical good or material good. What God considers good doesn’t necessarily mean that as earthly beings, we’d consider it good as well. Trials and tribulations help us spiritually but I’m not sure that anyone would willingly call that good. But that’s part of what that verse means.
2. Also, things work together for good to those who God is using for His purposes. Same general meaning as well–what God, a spiritual being, considers good, we, as earthly beings, won’t necessarily see things the same way.
None of that explanation is offered in Osteen’s book. Not at all. You get the impression that everything that happens to you is to make you better–not only spiritually–but the emphasis is on financially, materially, and physically.
4. Too much emphasis on the temporal–the here and now–rather than the eternal. This kind of piggybacks point three. Evangelical Christians familiar with Osteen are probably shaking their heads going, “What did you expect from the author of Your Best Life NOW?” Yes, I expected this but since I’m trying to be as thorough as I can in reviewing THIS book, it needed to be said.
5. Too little Jesus. For the first 116 pages, I began to wonder whether Joel Osteen was still a Christian or whether he had become a spiritual generalist–simply referring to God as a higher power. Then Osteen speaks favor over the reader’s life and declares it “in the name of Jesus.” For another 116 pages, Osteen references Bible passages in generalizations and the context of overcoming adversity and moving toward greater success before speaking favor over the reader’s life again and declaring it “in the name of Jesus.” In Chapter 14 (“Living a Resurrected Life”) and Chapter 15 (“Your Sunday is Coming), the core Gospel message–Jesus was betrayed, crucified, died, buried, and resurrected so that mankind could be rescued from their sins and eternal damnation–is reduced to simply yet another success story–a man who encountered great difficulty but triumphed in the end. I was incredibly horrified to read those two chapters as it reduced the man who Christians revere as Lord, King, Savior, and Friend to a level of Tyler Perry or Marie Callender–just another someone who persevered through incredible adversity. If a non-Christian had done this, I wouldn’t have been as bothered. However, Pastor Osteen claims Christianity and declares favor in Jesus’ name. It should have dawned on Pastor Osteen, of all people, that the Gospel message should be included in here somewhere. But unfortunately, Jesus is a mere afterthought. Pastor Osteen doesn’t present the Gospel in an Introduction, a Foreword, a Prologue, Chapter 1, or even an Epilogue or the Conclusion. It is presented on the last page with text at the very end of the book, on a page titled, “We Care About You.” Here it is:
“I believe there is a void in every person that only a relationship with God can fill. I’m not talking about finding religion or joining a particular church. I’m talking about developing a relationship with your Heavenly Father through His Son, Jesus Christ. I believe that knowing Him is the source of true peace and fulfillment in life.”
This seems like a pretty important statement to me. So why is it at the very END of the book? Basically, it’s almost a bait-and-switch: God will give you the right opportunities and the right breaks so you have a nice house and the job promotion you’ve always wanted! Oh, and true peace and fulfillment only comes from a relationship in Jesus Christ. I feel like there’s a mixed message here.
6. Too much in the title. I am going to cut Osteen a little bit of slack here because I’ve since learned that authors have little to no say over two things in their book: the cover art and the title. It’s Your Time is the obvious choice for the title of the book (it’s the main theme Osteen reiterates throughout 300 pages) However, that’s not the full title. The full title is:
It’s Your Time: Activate Your Faith, Achieve Your Dreams, and Increase in God’s Favor
However, the full title is something I do take issue with. Why? Because it’s totally misleading. Props to the editors for picking some great action verbs that really get the mind engaged but from a Christian point of view, they are awful.
A. Activate Your Faith. This gives me the impression that my faith is a massive computer and I’ve got to input the right power sequence to activate it. I suppose this part isn’t off the mark when it comes to the book though: Part Two: It’s Time For Favor includes the following chapters:
6. Praying Bold Prayers
7. Thriving, Not Just Surviving
8. Choosing Faith over Fear
9. Favor Has Been Released in Your Future
10. Speaking Faith-Filled Words
I suppose “activate” was a pretty good verb to try and sum all that up. However, Christians aren’t called to “activate” their faith. Perhaps it’s me, but it gives the impression that a person’s faith is idling by, laying dormant until it’s “made active” (as Merriam-Webster defines “activate”). Hebrews is a great book to read on how people employed their faith: they had it and put it to meaningful use. People in the “Hall of Faith” (Hebrews 11) didn’t have to activate diddly-squat. The word “activate” also gives the impression that we’re drawing on power for our selfish purposes; employing faith indicates that we are putting our faith to good use–for the glory of God and to serve others.
B. Achieve Your Dreams. What are your dreams and goals? To live a life free of sickness? To get a job promotion? Perhaps, it’s to simply find a job in this recessed economy? Well, I can save you $25 in purchasing this hardcover book by telling you all you have to do is put Peter Pan theology into practice: “Just think happy thoughts.”
I’m not kidding. (Well, maybe about the Peter Pan theology.) But Osteen’s premise is simply that people often set themselves up for ruin because they think or buy into negative thoughts. Here’s a sample:
“Don’t speak defeat over your life.
“Your words prophesy what you become. Be bold. Dare to say, ‘I look great today. I’m made in the image of Almighty God. I am strong and talented. I’m blessed. I’m creative. I will have a productive day.’
“…Change your words. Change your life. Forget victimhood and despair. Express gratitude and hope.”
In other words, “Just think happy thoughts.” After that, the rest really is up to God who will supernaturally give you the divine breaks, the right opportunities, and he’s lining up the right people to give you favor. But that’s how you achieve your dreams, friends, just continue to think those happy thoughts.
C. Increase in God’s Favor. This is an unbiblical concept. God will never love us more or less than He already does in Christ. Unlike human love, which conditional due to our sin nature, God’s love for His children is unconditional. Parents may have a favorite child because he’s better behaved but God doesn’t work that way. Because God sees us through Christ’s righteousness, our standing in Christ does not change. (Romans 8 in its entirety can help in learning more about God’s love through Jesus Christ.) So there’s no such thing as increasing in God’s favor anymore from a Christian perspective, but rather God chooses to bless whomever He wishes to bless–believer or non-believer. (Matthew 5:45) [Blessing in this context refers to the rain that falls to water crops, providing a yield for everyone in an agricultural economy to make a living.]
To sum up, I was initially going to give this book three stars but the more I thought about it, the more I realized the message of this book does several terrible things:
1. Detracts from who Jesus is–the Son of God, the Savior of the world, sent to free humankind from their sins.
2. Gives readers a vision that God is a magical genie–if you rub Him the right way, He’ll cave to your demands.
3. “It’s Your Time” for everything–materialistically (more money) and relationally (the right spouse)–you’ve ever wanted.
Those views are flawed and extremely faulty. From a Biblical perspective, I believe It’s Your Time can be more dangerous to the non-discerning reader than it can be helpful. I don’t think the book is total trash–there are some Biblical principles that can be found in the book but they are hidden like gold. You must wade through the muck and mire to find them. To the discerning Biblical reader, the book can be more of a bane than a blessing: there is much encouragement to be found but there’s also much discouragement in the way Biblical truths are twisted, verses are quoted out of context, and much of the text is full of trite, pithy sayings and anecdotes that could be found elsewhere.
For Joel Osteen lovers (like my mother), it’s probably nothing they haven’t already heard and it would probably be something they’d appreciate. (I do believe God can use anything.) But if you know someone who is on the fence about God, I wouldn’t let them near this book lest they hear the word and have no root or get choked by the cares and riches of the world and become unfruitful. (Matthew 13:20-22)
In closing, a friend referred to much of what I quoted from this book as full of “cultural narcissism.” I couldn’t agree more. Osteen tries to capitalize off of the opportunity of a sputtering economy by infusing cultural narcissism within a Christian context. And if Christians truly follow Jesus’ example, they will quickly learn there is no place for narcissism in Christianity.
What were the issues then that led me to give this book a rating comparable to “poor”? Quite a bit. Sit back and have a nice cup of coffee or tea as you review this list with sometimes lengthy explanations.
1. Too long. From start to finish, It’s Your Time runs a little over 300 pages. The book has 23 chapters and is broken up into five different sections that include 4-5 chapters each:
* It’s Time to Believe
* It’s Time for Favor
* It’s Time for Restoration
* It’s Time to Trust
* It’s Time to Stretch
The best section, “It’s Time to Stretch” comes at the end. It’s unfortunate that decent Biblical teaching only occupies maybe 20 pages maximum out of 300 pages. His last chapter, however, “Believe For a Supernatural Year” reiterates the same tripe that he began with and it ended in lackluster fashion.
2. Too cheesy. Joel Osteen cites Marie Callender, Tyler Perry, Phyllis Diller, and KFC’s Colonel Sanders as a few “you can be successful too!” stories. The wealthy in America only comprise 1-2% of the population. The chances of Osteen’s readers becoming as successful as the aforementioned are very slim.
3. Too unbiblical. One of my greatest issues with this book is that for most of it, Osteen has people believing that God is a magic genie who will give you what you want if you rub Him the right way. But there are other things:
* Expect God’s favor and you get “every” thing. (quotes mine) From the very beginning of the book:
“God promises your payday is on its way. If you’ll learn to be a prisoner of hope and get up every day expecting God’s favor, you’ll see God do amazing things. You’ll overcome every obstacle. You’ll defeat every enemy. And I believe and declare you’ll see every dream, every promise God has put in your heart, come to pass.” —Joel Osteen, It’s Your Time, p. 16 (emphasis mine)
I’m afraid this is completely incorrect. We won’t get “every” thing nor does God promise us “every” thing.
* If you’re not in the right place at the right time, you could miss a God-given opportunity. I don’t buy this one bit. God will not allow you to miss out on anything you’re not supposed to miss out on. If it didn’t happen, it was because God didn’t want it to (for whatever reason).
* If you are good to God and tell Him how you’ve been good to Him, He will be good to you. Osteen uses the story of King Hezekiah who was struck with a fatal disease and after pleading with God and telling Him all the ways he’d served Him, was miraculously healed and his life was extended. Osteen essentially uses this example to say that it’s okay to “bargain” (quotes mine) with God in an effort to get Him to bless you. While we can talk to God and ask Him to heal us, bless us, or whatever, we shouldn’t use the things we do for God as bargaining chips. God is not a gambler.
* “God can turn back time.” You will be healthier, stronger, and younger as you get older. Just speak that over your life. I don’t even know where to begin in debunking this. He uses the example of Hezekiah asking God to turn back time as an example that God can do it. Yeah, God can do anything, Pastor Osteen. But he’s not going to stop time for us and basically what you call “turning back the clock” is really making up for lost time. Call it what it is.
* “All Things Work Together for Our Good.” I simply have to take issue with the title of chapter 16 because it gives the impression that all things work together for what *we* think is good, which in fact, is far from the case. Here’s the part of Romans 8:28 Osteen cites:
“And we know that all things work together for good”
When, in fact, the ENTIRE verse says: “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Adding the rest of that really changes the meaning of the verse, doesn’t it? You get the impression that all things work together for your good, the way you want it to work out, however, the verse is saying at least two things:
1. All things work together ultimately for our SPIRITUAL good. The word “spiritual” isn’t in the verse so where do I get that idea? The prepositional phrase “to those who love God” means that “all things work[ing] together for good” is directed to those who are seeking God, a spiritual being. Spiritual good does not necessarily mean physical good or material good. What God considers good doesn’t necessarily mean that as earthly beings, we’d consider it good as well. Trials and tribulations help us spiritually but I’m not sure that anyone would willingly call that good. But that’s part of what that verse means.
2. Also, things work together for good to those who God is using for His purposes. Same general meaning as well–what God, a spiritual being, considers good, we, as earthly beings, won’t necessarily see things the same way.
None of that explanation is offered in Osteen’s book. Not at all. You get the impression that everything that happens to you is to make you better–not only spiritually–but the emphasis is on financially, materially, and physically.
4. Too much emphasis on the temporal–the here and now–rather than the eternal. This kind of piggybacks point three. Evangelical Christians familiar with Osteen are probably shaking their heads going, “What did you expect from the author of Your Best Life NOW?” Yes, I expected this but since I’m trying to be as thorough as I can in reviewing THIS book, it needed to be said.
5. Too little Jesus. For the first 116 pages, I began to wonder whether Joel Osteen was still a Christian or whether he had become a spiritual generalist–simply referring to God as a higher power. Then Osteen speaks favor over the reader’s life and declares it “in the name of Jesus.” For another 116 pages, Osteen references Bible passages in generalizations and the context of overcoming adversity and moving toward greater success before speaking favor over the reader’s life again and declaring it “in the name of Jesus.” In Chapter 14 (“Living a Resurrected Life”) and Chapter 15 (“Your Sunday is Coming), the core Gospel message–Jesus was betrayed, crucified, died, buried, and resurrected so that mankind could be rescued from their sins and eternal damnation–is reduced to simply yet another success story–a man who encountered great difficulty but triumphed in the end. I was incredibly horrified to read those two chapters as it reduced the man who Christians revere as Lord, King, Savior, and Friend to a level of Tyler Perry or Marie Callender–just another someone who persevered through incredible adversity. If a non-Christian had done this, I wouldn’t have been as bothered. However, Pastor Osteen claims Christianity and declares favor in Jesus’ name. It should have dawned on Pastor Osteen, of all people, that the Gospel message should be included in here somewhere. But unfortunately, Jesus is a mere afterthought. Pastor Osteen doesn’t present the Gospel in an Introduction, a Foreword, a Prologue, Chapter 1, or even an Epilogue or the Conclusion. It is presented on the last page with text at the very end of the book, on a page titled, “We Care About You.” Here it is:
“I believe there is a void in every person that only a relationship with God can fill. I’m not talking about finding religion or joining a particular church. I’m talking about developing a relationship with your Heavenly Father through His Son, Jesus Christ. I believe that knowing Him is the source of true peace and fulfillment in life.”
This seems like a pretty important statement to me. So why is it at the very END of the book? Basically, it’s almost a bait-and-switch: God will give you the right opportunities and the right breaks so you have a nice house and the job promotion you’ve always wanted! Oh, and true peace and fulfillment only comes from a relationship in Jesus Christ. I feel like there’s a mixed message here.
6. Too much in the title. I am going to cut Osteen a little bit of slack here because I’ve since learned that authors have little to no say over two things in their book: the cover art and the title. It’s Your Time is the obvious choice for the title of the book (it’s the main theme Osteen reiterates throughout 300 pages) However, that’s not the full title. The full title is:
It’s Your Time: Activate Your Faith, Achieve Your Dreams, and Increase in God’s Favor
However, the full title is something I do take issue with. Why? Because it’s totally misleading. Props to the editors for picking some great action verbs that really get the mind engaged but from a Christian point of view, they are awful.
A. Activate Your Faith. This gives me the impression that my faith is a massive computer and I’ve got to input the right power sequence to activate it. I suppose this part isn’t off the mark when it comes to the book though: Part Two: It’s Time For Favor includes the following chapters:
6. Praying Bold Prayers
7. Thriving, Not Just Surviving
8. Choosing Faith over Fear
9. Favor Has Been Released in Your Future
10. Speaking Faith-Filled Words
I suppose “activate” was a pretty good verb to try and sum all that up. However, Christians aren’t called to “activate” their faith. Perhaps it’s me, but it gives the impression that a person’s faith is idling by, laying dormant until it’s “made active” (as Merriam-Webster defines “activate”). Hebrews is a great book to read on how people employed their faith: they had it and put it to meaningful use. People in the “Hall of Faith” (Hebrews 11) didn’t have to activate diddly-squat. The word “activate” also gives the impression that we’re drawing on power for our selfish purposes; employing faith indicates that we are putting our faith to good use–for the glory of God and to serve others.
B. Achieve Your Dreams. What are your dreams and goals? To live a life free of sickness? To get a job promotion? Perhaps, it’s to simply find a job in this recessed economy? Well, I can save you $25 in purchasing this hardcover book by telling you all you have to do is put Peter Pan theology into practice: “Just think happy thoughts.”
I’m not kidding. (Well, maybe about the Peter Pan theology.) But Osteen’s premise is simply that people often set themselves up for ruin because they think or buy into negative thoughts. Here’s a sample:
“Don’t speak defeat over your life.
“Your words prophesy what you become. Be bold. Dare to say, ‘I look great today. I’m made in the image of Almighty God. I am strong and talented. I’m blessed. I’m creative. I will have a productive day.’
“…Change your words. Change your life. Forget victimhood and despair. Express gratitude and hope.”
In other words, “Just think happy thoughts.” After that, the rest really is up to God who will supernaturally give you the divine breaks, the right opportunities, and he’s lining up the right people to give you favor. But that’s how you achieve your dreams, friends, just continue to think those happy thoughts.
C. Increase in God’s Favor. This is an unbiblical concept. God will never love us more or less than He already does in Christ. Unlike human love, which conditional due to our sin nature, God’s love for His children is unconditional. Parents may have a favorite child because he’s better behaved but God doesn’t work that way. Because God sees us through Christ’s righteousness, our standing in Christ does not change. (Romans 8 in its entirety can help in learning more about God’s love through Jesus Christ.) So there’s no such thing as increasing in God’s favor anymore from a Christian perspective, but rather God chooses to bless whomever He wishes to bless–believer or non-believer. (Matthew 5:45) [Blessing in this context refers to the rain that falls to water crops, providing a yield for everyone in an agricultural economy to make a living.]
To sum up, I was initially going to give this book three stars but the more I thought about it, the more I realized the message of this book does several terrible things:
1. Detracts from who Jesus is–the Son of God, the Savior of the world, sent to free humankind from their sins.
2. Gives readers a vision that God is a magical genie–if you rub Him the right way, He’ll cave to your demands.
3. “It’s Your Time” for everything–materialistically (more money) and relationally (the right spouse)–you’ve ever wanted.
Those views are flawed and extremely faulty. From a Biblical perspective, I believe It’s Your Time can be more dangerous to the non-discerning reader than it can be helpful. I don’t think the book is total trash–there are some Biblical principles that can be found in the book but they are hidden like gold. You must wade through the muck and mire to find them. To the discerning Biblical reader, the book can be more of a bane than a blessing: there is much encouragement to be found but there’s also much discouragement in the way Biblical truths are twisted, verses are quoted out of context, and much of the text is full of trite, pithy sayings and anecdotes that could be found elsewhere.
For Joel Osteen lovers (like my mother), it’s probably nothing they haven’t already heard and it would probably be something they’d appreciate. (I do believe God can use anything.) But if you know someone who is on the fence about God, I wouldn’t let them near this book lest they hear the word and have no root or get choked by the cares and riches of the world and become unfruitful. (Matthew 13:20-22)
In closing, a friend referred to much of what I quoted from this book as full of “cultural narcissism.” I couldn’t agree more. Osteen tries to capitalize off of the opportunity of a sputtering economy by infusing cultural narcissism within a Christian context. And if Christians truly follow Jesus’ example, they will quickly learn there is no place for narcissism in Christianity.
December 8, 2022
this Book is amazing book/Audiobook. Joel Osteen's It's Your Time
July 2, 2019
Tea: I believe I will have another cup
Overall a very positive and inspiring book for those who may have lost hope in their lives ever changing.
While I don't consider myself a religious person, subscribing to a specific faith, I did appreciate the spirituality in this book. I had to look past the religious references, for myself, to find the deeper meaning behind the Bible passages. I also preferred the real life examples in the book to the passages from the scripture.
As some reviewers have stated, if you have read his previous books, or watched him on TV, this book does contain a lot of the same messages and some of the same stories. I wasn't too bothered by this because they're still great messages. After all, a lot of the inspiring stories relay a similar message, how one person overcame a seemingly insurmountable obstacle to achieve a goal or dream.
I find for myself, I can never be too inspired and I'm willing to look beyond my own beliefs for inspiration and hope.
Overall a very positive and inspiring book for those who may have lost hope in their lives ever changing.
While I don't consider myself a religious person, subscribing to a specific faith, I did appreciate the spirituality in this book. I had to look past the religious references, for myself, to find the deeper meaning behind the Bible passages. I also preferred the real life examples in the book to the passages from the scripture.
As some reviewers have stated, if you have read his previous books, or watched him on TV, this book does contain a lot of the same messages and some of the same stories. I wasn't too bothered by this because they're still great messages. After all, a lot of the inspiring stories relay a similar message, how one person overcame a seemingly insurmountable obstacle to achieve a goal or dream.
I find for myself, I can never be too inspired and I'm willing to look beyond my own beliefs for inspiration and hope.
April 11, 2012
If the purpose of this book was to motivate & encourage using some biblical aspects & everyday life, then Pastor Joel has accomplished his mission. If the goal of this book was to give the reader a book that flowed like an ongoing conversation, then once again the goal was met. If the goal of this book was to not bog down the reader with alot of religious dogma & theology, then again the goal was met..
I thought this was an excellent book. I finished it feeling motivated & encouraged. It did challenge my thinking on how I pray & how we should pray & it left me with the mind set that I can pray bigger prayers & sometimes they can be about me... I do suggest that people take the time to research the Bible scriptures mentioned & that they pray for FULL understanding. Also, when praying, we must keep a balance... Just like we should spend time just thanking God, we also should spend time praying for others & ourselves.
I thought this was an excellent book. I finished it feeling motivated & encouraged. It did challenge my thinking on how I pray & how we should pray & it left me with the mind set that I can pray bigger prayers & sometimes they can be about me... I do suggest that people take the time to research the Bible scriptures mentioned & that they pray for FULL understanding. Also, when praying, we must keep a balance... Just like we should spend time just thanking God, we also should spend time praying for others & ourselves.
November 9, 2010
Joel Osteen should be called the great motivator. He so simply motivates and challenges you to be all that God wants you to be. He teaches of God's favor and trusting God for abundance in our lives. Using stories from everyday life, he shows how truly trusting God for the natural and the supernatural can achieve all God's blessing. He gives inspiration, bold prayers and practical living tools for moving forward in faith. The hope filled messages and encouragements motivates you to expand beyond what you thought could achieve and go even further than what you ever dreamed. A must read!!!
October 27, 2012
I really enjoyed how uplifting this book was,it was very encouraging and eye opening. Joel Osteen testimonies of how he overcame obstacles,struggles and how he was victorious build my faith. I also loved he talked about releasing your faith and have bold prayers, not just prayers that get by. Thriving not merely surviving but having everything that God has in store for you. It was a very powerful book about reaching your potential,very encouraging and insightful!
May 9, 2014
"Get out of Self Pity Estates!" Joel Osteen
He is so positive and it's rubbing off on me. I love it. Since I started reading this book all types of great things are happening to me.
He is so positive and it's rubbing off on me. I love it. Since I started reading this book all types of great things are happening to me.
October 1, 2012
I thought he gave an interesting perspective on a lot of things. I would recommend this if you are struggling in some way (and who isn't?).
September 13, 2018
Uplifting, positive, faith-filled and fun read. Great reminder to let go of the past and live God’s dream for my life.
November 21, 2013
It’s Your Time by Joel Osteen is a religious book that is about God’s favor and blessings coming down on those who may feel down and out. This book speaks to the those going through foreclosure, failed relationships, overwhelming finances and distraught parents or anyone giving up hope. This uplifting book emphasizes believing that it’s time for increase, receiving favor, restoration, and trusting in God in order to build hope and encouragement that things will get better and victory over obstacles will come.
There are many things I like about this book. For instance, it gives encouragement to the reader and it increases hope within them to keep pressing forward to a better future. Also, there are many uplifting words and phrases that stress faith, victory, and favor which persuades the reader to hang in there and to never give up. The most rewarding thing about this book is being able to apply it in my own life and to be able to pass that faith and hope on to someone else who is going through the storms of life. Although this book is encouraging and uplifting, it is very repetitive in its diction and message. In almost every chapter the author seem solutions which makes to be referring to the same issues, phrases, and solutions which make the text boring and mundane causing the reader to lose focus. For example, Osteen always mentions problems such as finances, starting a business, family or relationship in just about every chapter. However, it’s even more disheartening that some of his chapters lose touch with the reader because it doesn’t stay focused with the topic of the chapter all the way through.
Even though the repetition takes away from creativity from the book, I would consider reading this book again for encouragement and recommending it to a friend who is feeling discouraged. The emphasis of victory and favor created a sense of hope and faith for the future influencing me to not give up and to not throw in the towel. I will certainly look forward to reading more of Joel Osteen’s books because they have a message for my life.
There are many things I like about this book. For instance, it gives encouragement to the reader and it increases hope within them to keep pressing forward to a better future. Also, there are many uplifting words and phrases that stress faith, victory, and favor which persuades the reader to hang in there and to never give up. The most rewarding thing about this book is being able to apply it in my own life and to be able to pass that faith and hope on to someone else who is going through the storms of life. Although this book is encouraging and uplifting, it is very repetitive in its diction and message. In almost every chapter the author seem solutions which makes to be referring to the same issues, phrases, and solutions which make the text boring and mundane causing the reader to lose focus. For example, Osteen always mentions problems such as finances, starting a business, family or relationship in just about every chapter. However, it’s even more disheartening that some of his chapters lose touch with the reader because it doesn’t stay focused with the topic of the chapter all the way through.
Even though the repetition takes away from creativity from the book, I would consider reading this book again for encouragement and recommending it to a friend who is feeling discouraged. The emphasis of victory and favor created a sense of hope and faith for the future influencing me to not give up and to not throw in the towel. I will certainly look forward to reading more of Joel Osteen’s books because they have a message for my life.
September 8, 2010
One big ray of sunshine, that Joel Osteen is. I listened to this on CD and he read it. It was good to hear him annunciate the positives and even laugh at his own little jokes. The entire premise of the book is that God doesn’t close one door with out opening another. Osteen rides this theme from start to finish. Always keep positive and trust in God. He uses several stories of people who have had challenges in their lives and God had plans for them to be great. They only had to believe that He was working in their lives. Osteen’s view is that God has a plan already made out for each and everyone of us. All we need to do is ask for abundance and pray bold prayers.
Overall it was an average book with several key points that have been made in other books of the same nature. But with Osteen’s chipper attitude that all things are possible with God, it is hard to give this a bad rating.
I do wonder though, what about the people who don’t have God in their lives? What about the people who don’t ask God for abundance and still get huge rewards? I see people who rise to the top without once recognizing that God is with them. Does God still work in their lives even though they refuse to believe in a higher power? If Osteen took more time to talk about these types of issues I would have given it a 4 star rating.
Overall it was an average book with several key points that have been made in other books of the same nature. But with Osteen’s chipper attitude that all things are possible with God, it is hard to give this a bad rating.
I do wonder though, what about the people who don’t have God in their lives? What about the people who don’t ask God for abundance and still get huge rewards? I see people who rise to the top without once recognizing that God is with them. Does God still work in their lives even though they refuse to believe in a higher power? If Osteen took more time to talk about these types of issues I would have given it a 4 star rating.
March 25, 2010
This is the amazing conclusion to the last edition titled "Become a Better You:. Its from the same author and covers the same concept and tells the reader that no matter how hard the econemy is its is still possible to achive your goals. I found this book to be very inspirational and unforgetable with the words written by Joel. I recommend this book for struggling teens in High school.
The reason I picked out this book was because after I completed the first edition of this book I began searching for the second. When it comes to Mr. Osteen I would like to have every bit of his wise words engraved in my mind. In the future I plan on putting his words and advice to good use.
The reason I picked out this book was because after I completed the first edition of this book I began searching for the second. When it comes to Mr. Osteen I would like to have every bit of his wise words engraved in my mind. In the future I plan on putting his words and advice to good use.
October 29, 2010
It was so awesome!!! I was greatly consoled and encouraged through reading this book! Joel Osteen is a great man of God. I reccommend evevrybody to read this book because it will change their life!!! Joel really encourages and motivates us to live life to the fullest with the weapon of faith. Our faith moves God, not out words.
December 8, 2014
I'll give the book four stars because I really like joel and his approach to writing and life in general. The book was inspiring but also redundant to some stuff I've heard on his programs. the book was focused on the problems from the economic downturn which didn't affect me personally but it did help me in the aspect that we all have problems and there are always positive solutions.
March 19, 2022
I enjoy Joel Osteen's books and preaching. My mother always jokes and says he looks like Jesus 😁 with his calm demeanour and hair.
I enjoyed the book. My faith is inspired, my vision is enlarged and l truly believe that l'm closer than l think to seeing my breakthrough and a new level of His favour!
I enjoyed the book. My faith is inspired, my vision is enlarged and l truly believe that l'm closer than l think to seeing my breakthrough and a new level of His favour!
December 1, 2009
Wow. I love watching/listening to Joel. He instantly renews your faith, energy, and life. I think I am a pretty positive and thankful individual, but reading his book reminds me that I am truly blessed.
Currently reading
November 19, 2010It is very helpful and encourages me to be the best I can and though times may get difficult nothing lasts forever, absolutely inspiring, a definite read for anyone looking for a positive side to their situation gives you a total different look at daily life.
October 9, 2024
Audiobook
Joel Osteen's goal in life is to motivate and inspire individuals in their time of need.
Even though this book had some repeat stories, I still felt it was encouraging and heartfelt.
Joel Osteen's goal in life is to motivate and inspire individuals in their time of need.
Even though this book had some repeat stories, I still felt it was encouraging and heartfelt.
June 14, 2016
If you're feeling low and defeated, this book will lift you up. It's exactly what I needed to bring me back to learning how to walk in faith.
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. 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.
September 10, 2018
Joel Osteen’s book, “It’s Your Time: Finding Favor, Restoration, and Abundance in Your Life Every Day” is full of inspiration to help you find God’s blessings in your everyday life.
Written during the great recession of the early 21st century and released nearly 9 years ago, the words in Osteen’s book, “It’s Your Time: Finding Favor, Restoration, and Abundance in Your Life Every Day” are as relevant today as they were when the book first hit the shelves in 2009.
While some of the stories Osteen shared I had heard in sermons he had delivered at Lakewood Church in Houston or have read in other books by Joel, yet there were an overwhelming majority that I had never heard of before.
Every page of this book will help you find a connection with God, will encourage you to grow closer to the Lord and understand that He has blessings waiting for you beyond your imagination.
Throughout the book Osteen encourages the reader not only to develop a close relationship with God, but to get in the right relationship and search for a prosperous life – a life full of abundant blessings.
One topic in particular that Osteen touched upon spoke to me directly. Osteen encouraged readers to find a good Bible based church to attend and make sure their spiritual leader is someone who has a compassionate heart. This spoke directly to me as I recently struggled with a leader (not a spiritual leader) who I did not feel was compassionate to others. Joel’s word confirmed that my belief that a leader should be compassionate, was valid.
Before I was finished with the book, I was eager to learn how to listen to God’s voice closer that I had ever in my life.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Joel Osteen or to anyone who is struggling and needs affirmation that there is a better tomorrow waiting for them.
Written during the great recession of the early 21st century and released nearly 9 years ago, the words in Osteen’s book, “It’s Your Time: Finding Favor, Restoration, and Abundance in Your Life Every Day” are as relevant today as they were when the book first hit the shelves in 2009.
While some of the stories Osteen shared I had heard in sermons he had delivered at Lakewood Church in Houston or have read in other books by Joel, yet there were an overwhelming majority that I had never heard of before.
Every page of this book will help you find a connection with God, will encourage you to grow closer to the Lord and understand that He has blessings waiting for you beyond your imagination.
Throughout the book Osteen encourages the reader not only to develop a close relationship with God, but to get in the right relationship and search for a prosperous life – a life full of abundant blessings.
One topic in particular that Osteen touched upon spoke to me directly. Osteen encouraged readers to find a good Bible based church to attend and make sure their spiritual leader is someone who has a compassionate heart. This spoke directly to me as I recently struggled with a leader (not a spiritual leader) who I did not feel was compassionate to others. Joel’s word confirmed that my belief that a leader should be compassionate, was valid.
Before I was finished with the book, I was eager to learn how to listen to God’s voice closer that I had ever in my life.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of Joel Osteen or to anyone who is struggling and needs affirmation that there is a better tomorrow waiting for them.
July 8, 2024
" When you stay in faith you will walk into gods blessings. understand that hes already released into your future everything you need to fulfill your destiny. my prayer for you is that you will receive everything god has in store. i speak it over you right now new seasons of increase. i declare favor over your life i speak strength into you. i speak health. i speak wisdom. i speack creativity. I speak divine connections. I speak supernatural opportunities. they are coming your way. i declare it in the name of jesus." WHO IS THIS BRAINWASHED DELUSIONAL AND MAD LOSER AND WHY ARE YOU READING THIS GARBAGE??? May I remind people that there is no shred of proof of any god and if the people in the world with the highest IQ doesn't believe in this crap (Stephen Hawking) doesn't that say anything? Take a deap breath and unbrainwash yourself. Steer clear of this insane person named Joel Osteen. He is trying to feed off your weakness, your brainwashed head.
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