Joel Osteen

Empty Out the Negative: A Review

The words of Joel Osteen, as penned in *Empty Out the Negative*, sing of wisdom and counsel like the psalmist of old. His call to release bitterness, anger, and grief from the soul is like a beacon of light in the darkness, urging us toward freedom and joy. “Unforgiveness is like a poisonous toxin," he says, "it may feel good to hold on to it, but it will contaminate your life” (pg. 16). Truly, the weight of bitterness, though invisible, presses heavily show more upon the heart, and Osteen reminds us of the deliverance found in letting go.

The ways of the fool are to cling to pain and past sorrows, for they believe that vengeance or holding onto hurt will restore their pride. Yet, as King David declares, *“The fool says in his heart, ‘There is no God.’”* So too do those who embrace the negative, thinking their wounds are without healing or hope. But Osteen lifts our gaze heavenward, revealing that to empty ourselves of hurt is to make room for the blessings of the Lord, who prospers His people according to His good plans. Indeed, as the prophet declares, *“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future”* (Jeremiah 29:11).

The lessons learned from this book echo through the chambers of the heart: it is not in clinging to old griefs that we find peace, but in walking the path of righteousness, trusting in God's provision. The enemies and naysayers may rise against me—those who murmur and spread their negativity—but as the psalmist said, *“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?”* Osteen teaches that their words fall to the ground, for the righteous do not heed the voice of the scoffer. Instead, I will let their complaints roll away like water, unmoved and unshaken by their bitterness. I shall dance for joy, knowing that the Lord has set His hand upon my life and leads me toward a destiny of favor.

I have found strength in this book to rise each day with purpose, eager to accomplish the work set before me. While others waste their time in bitterness, I quietly and diligently move forward, one small great thing at a time. As David sang, *“The Lord makes firm the steps of the one who delights in Him”* (Psalm 37:23), so too does Osteen remind me that each task, each goal, brings me closer to the fulfillment of my divine purpose.

In this book, I am reminded to build a legacy not of complaint, but of hope, nourishment, and encouragement. My daily steps, though small, are great in the sight of God, for they are steps of faith. And as David danced before the Lord in joy, so do I rejoice in life, in my purpose, and in my calling. I shall not let the bitterness of others steal my joy or my peace, for my heart is steadfast in the Lord, and my trust is in Him alone.

May the wisdom of Osteen’s words encourage all to empty themselves of the negative, to live in the fullness of joy, and to honor God and the families He has given us. * Selah. show less

Sonhar faz bem, uma válvula de escape num mundo cada vez mais estressante. Imaginar um futuro brilhante, com casamento sólido, emprego instigante, ambiente familiar estável e amoroso é quase uma terapia. Mas o melhor é que isso tudo pode ser efetivamente conquistado. Todos esses itens podem sair da lista de 'por fazer' e 'por conquistar' direto para a de realizações. É só decidir que o momento chegou. A hora da virada é esta. Joel Osteen, considerado a voz da nova geração show more norte-americana, ensina, em 'O momento é este'', o que fazer para romper uma rotina sem propósitos e viver plenamente o instante. Independentemente de onde estiver ou dos desafios que estiver enfrentando, qualquer pessoa pode aproveitar a vida neste exato momento. Osteen analisa todas as atitudes de sabotagem que as pessoas usam contra si próprias. Desde 'eu não mereço' e 'isso não é para mim' até comportamentos pessimistas extremamente sutis. Sua experiência como pastor de uma das congregações religiosas que mais cresce nos Estados Unidos faz com que Osteen se conecte rapidamente com o leitor, num estilo conciso, direto e claro. Com uma linguagem acessível, ele combate, principalmente, a baixo auto-estima. Osteen organiza, nesta obra, um guia detalhado para chegar a esse nirvana emocional. São sete passos simples que prometem mudar a forma que as pessoas vêem a si próprias e ao mundo ao redor. O primeiro degrau nessa escadaria para o autoconhecimento e realização é expandir a visão. Logo depois é preciso desenvolver uma auto-imagem saudável, se amar e ver quais suas principais qualidades. Osteen também fala sobre o grande poder dos pensamentos e das palavras, como é preciso abandonar o passado e encontrar forças durante a adversidade, viver de forma altruísta. Mas o principal mesmo é o último passo - decidir ser feliz show less

√ You Have Seeds of Greatness in You!

This book is primarily a book of encouragement, not a book of theology. The author lists 8 specific traits that sincere Christians should exhibit if they want to achieve all that God has in store for them. These benefits come about because God favors his children, and wants them to achieve greatness, even here on Earth.

The winner is exhorted to remember these 8 qualities:

♦ Keep Your Vision in Front of You
♦ Run Your Race
♦ Expect Good Things
♦ show more Have a Positive Mind Set
♦ Commit to Excellence
♦ Keep Growing
♦ Serve Others
♦ Stay Passionate

YOU CAN YOU WILL is fill of encouraging anecdotes and actual stories from friends of the author. They often relate to having a positive attitude, and not becoming discouraged. This positive mindset is a recurring theme through the book--face problems with a can-do attitude and avoid victim-hood thinking at all costs.

A winner should not give in to negative thoughts, and even not associate with those who are negative influences. Avoid those negative anchors, because they are likely impeding your drive to achieving great things.

The classical puritan work ethic is also a theme of this book, although not called out by name. The Christian winner should do MORE than is necessary--MORE than required by their employer: "When you're a person of excellence, you do more than necessary. You don't just meet the minimum requirements."

The "Spirit of Excellent" can manifest itself in many ways. Pastor Joel makes it a point to keep the church grounds clean. Why send the wrong message, since believers "represent god, and He is not sloppy. God is not run-down. God is not second class."

YOU CAN YOU WILL is bound to be a subject of controversy. The theme of the book focuses mostly on what a Christian can achieve in this world--what wonderful things one can do in this world. The idea of exactly what type of "Success" God wants for believers is assumed by the author. It is the same type of success that everyone wants--job, money, family, position, etc.

The controversial portions of this book may mask the many good ideas that believers should follow. For example, Pastor Joel encourages the reader in stewardship, using your abilities to the maximum, being diligent and hardworking, and not blaming others. Every Christian can agree that these are solid Biblical principles, with roots in the Protestant Reformation.

YOU CAN YOU WILL is an inspirational book aimed at believers who see God's favor in their life. These Christians want to take specific action, and this book will definitely light that fire.

For a contrasting perspective on the Christian life and Success, see Charles Stanley, "Success, God's Way." show less

Much of what is said here can be found in pretty much any other inspirational/self-help book and/or is common sense. The rest is just self-centered interpretation/skewing of the Bible in a shameless attempt to grub money.

Joel Osteen simply does not understand or embrace Jesus's message. He uses religion to his own end, not for any love of Jesus or his fellow man.