Pastor Joel Osteen is recognized all over the world for his uplifting messages of faith. After working behind the scenes for 17 years, he became the lead pastor of the largest church in America, Lakewood Church, taking over when his father, John Osteen, suddenly passed away in January 1999. Joel's role at the church helped him discover his destiny and in his new book "You Can, You Will," he encourages readers to do the same.
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Run your own race
When Joel took over Lakewood Church after his father's death, he often thought he had to be exactly like him. Many critics slammed Joel for being too young or not having enough experience. Once Joel decided to keep focused on who he is, his new ministry flourished.
"When I finally accepted the fact that I am not like my dad," he told Kathie Lee and Hoda, "that's when it took off."
Keep your vision in front of you
Joel encourages those with dreams and goals to keep photos and mementos throughout their house to help them boost their faith.
He writes, "I had a desire to write a book. My dad had written many books. On the bookshelf I walk by at home every day, I had two copies of my dad's most popular book. I kept those books in front of me, knowing one day at the right time I would write a book. In my mind this seemed so far out.
To get to the other parts of the house I had to go right by those two books. I saw them thousands and thousands of times. I didn’t always consciously think about them, but even subconsciously I was moving toward writing my own. My faith was being released. Something on the inside was saying, “Yes, one day I’m going to write a book.
In 2004 I wrote my first book, Your Best Life Now."
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Be comfortable when things don't happen on your timetable
"You've got to believe God's got you in the palm of his hand," Joel told Cindy, one of our viewers who hopes to marry someday soon.
"When you do what you can do, God will do what you can't do. Keep believing. Keep doing the right thing and I believe God will always direct and guide your steps," he encouraged.
Don’t give up on life after one bad break
During tough situations, it's often easy for people to give up, especially when things look hopeless.
"If a door closes, it doesn't mean it's going to be the final door," Joel said. " Stay in faith and don't give up on life after one bad break. Do what you believe God led you to do and trust God to do the rest."
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