Joel Osteen

Joel Osteen - The God Who Closes Doors

January 24, 2026 | 27:29

Joel and Victoria Osteen's message of unconditional love and unending hope reaches everyone across the world.

#HandofGod #God'sWill #Plan #Purpose #Faith #TrustGod #Timing #Season #Future #Encouragement #Discouragement #Doubt #Believe #Calling #Destiny #WalkwithGod #Hope #Abundance #JoelOsteen

Closed captions

Show Timecode

Joel Osteen | Joel Osteen - The God Who Closes Doors | January 24, 2026

(applause)
00:00:10.700 --> 00:00:13.670
(applause) well, god bless you. it's a joy
00:00:13.736 --> 00:00:14.604
(applause) well, god bless you. it's a joy to come into your homes.
00:00:14.671 --> 00:00:16.639
Well, god bless you. it's a joy to come into your homes. if you're ever in our area i
00:00:16.706 --> 00:00:18.475
To come into your homes. if you're ever in our area i hope you'll stop by and be a
00:00:18.541 --> 00:00:19.909
If you're ever in our area i hope you'll stop by and be a part of one of our services.
00:00:19.976 --> 00:00:21.744
Hope you'll stop by and be a part of one of our services. i promise you we'll make you
00:00:21.811 --> 00:00:22.912
Part of one of our services. i promise you we'll make you feel right at home. but thank
00:00:22.979 --> 00:00:24.214
I promise you we'll make you feel right at home. but thank you so much for tuning in.
00:00:24.280 --> 00:00:25.882
Feel right at home. but thank you so much for tuning in. thank you again for coming out
00:00:25.949 --> 00:00:27.317
You so much for tuning in. thank you again for coming out today. i like to start with
00:00:27.383 --> 00:00:29.152
Thank you again for coming out today. i like to start with something funny.
00:00:29.219 --> 00:00:30.587
Today. i like to start with something funny. one day up in heaven,
00:00:30.653 --> 00:00:31.621
Something funny. one day up in heaven, god said to the men,
00:00:31.688 --> 00:00:33.189
One day up in heaven, god said to the men, "i want you to form two lines.
00:00:33.256 --> 00:00:35.158
God said to the men, "i want you to form two lines. one line is for the men who were
00:00:35.225 --> 00:00:37.594
"i want you to form two lines. one line is for the men who were the head of the house and the
00:00:37.660 --> 00:00:39.362
One line is for the men who were the head of the house and the other line is for the men who
00:00:39.429 --> 00:00:41.197
The head of the house and the other line is for the men who let the woman be the head of the
00:00:41.264 --> 00:00:42.765
Other line is for the men who let the woman be the head of the house."
00:00:42.832 --> 00:00:43.600
Let the woman be the head of the house." the line where the woman ran the
00:00:43.666 --> 00:00:45.201
House." the line where the woman ran the house was a hundred miles long.
00:00:45.268 --> 00:00:47.403
The line where the woman ran the house was a hundred miles long. there was only one man in the
00:00:47.470 --> 00:00:49.105
House was a hundred miles long. there was only one man in the other line. god said,
00:00:49.172 --> 00:00:50.707
There was only one man in the other line. god said, "men, i'm ashamed of you.
00:00:50.773 --> 00:00:52.308
Other line. god said, "men, i'm ashamed of you. i created you to be the head
00:00:52.375 --> 00:00:53.576
"men, i'm ashamed of you. i created you to be the head but only one man stood up to
00:00:53.643 --> 00:00:55.311
I created you to be the head but only one man stood up to make me proud."
00:00:55.378 --> 00:00:56.713
But only one man stood up to make me proud." he looked at him and said, "son,
00:00:56.779 --> 00:00:57.947
Make me proud." he looked at him and said, "son, tell them, how did you manage to
00:00:58.014 --> 00:00:59.949
He looked at him and said, "son, tell them, how did you manage to be the only one in this line?"
00:01:00.016 --> 00:01:02.018
Tell them, how did you manage to be the only one in this line?" the man looked confused and
00:01:02.085 --> 00:01:03.386
Be the only one in this line?" the man looked confused and said, "i don't know. my wife
00:01:03.453 --> 00:01:04.654
The man looked confused and said, "i don't know. my wife told me to stand here."
00:01:04.721 --> 00:01:05.822
Said, "i don't know. my wife told me to stand here." (laughter/applause)
00:01:05.889 --> 00:01:08.358
Told me to stand here." (laughter/applause) victoria says i'm the head but
00:01:08.424 --> 00:01:09.592
(laughter/applause) victoria says i'm the head but she's the neck that turns the
00:01:09.659 --> 00:01:10.894
Victoria says i'm the head but she's the neck that turns the head, so... (laughter)
00:01:10.960 --> 00:01:13.029
She's the neck that turns the head, so... (laughter) hold up your bible.
00:01:13.096 --> 00:01:13.897
Head, so... (laughter) hold up your bible. say it like you mean it.
00:01:13.963 --> 00:01:15.598
Hold up your bible. say it like you mean it. this is my bible.
00:01:15.665 --> 00:01:16.799
Say it like you mean it. this is my bible. i am what it says i am.
00:01:16.866 --> 00:01:18.401
This is my bible. i am what it says i am. i have what it says i have.
00:01:18.468 --> 00:01:20.003
I am what it says i am. i have what it says i have. i can do what it says i can do.
00:01:20.069 --> 00:01:21.871
I have what it says i have. i can do what it says i can do. today i will be taught
00:01:21.938 --> 00:01:23.473
I can do what it says i can do. today i will be taught the word of god.
00:01:23.540 --> 00:01:24.707
Today i will be taught the word of god. i boldly confess:
00:01:24.774 --> 00:01:26.309
The word of god. i boldly confess: my mind is alert.
00:01:26.376 --> 00:01:27.710
I boldly confess: my mind is alert. my heart is receptive.
00:01:27.777 --> 00:01:29.245
My mind is alert. my heart is receptive. i will never be the same.
00:01:29.312 --> 00:01:30.880
My heart is receptive. i will never be the same. in jesus' name.
00:01:30.947 --> 00:01:33.149
I will never be the same. in jesus' name. god bless you.
00:01:33.216 --> 00:01:35.218
In jesus' name. god bless you. i want to talk to you today
00:01:35.285 --> 00:01:36.686
God bless you. i want to talk to you today about the god who closes doors.
00:01:36.753 --> 00:01:39.722
I want to talk to you today about the god who closes doors. we all know that god opens
00:01:39.789 --> 00:01:41.257
About the god who closes doors. we all know that god opens doors. we've seen him give us
00:01:41.324 --> 00:01:43.426
We all know that god opens doors. we've seen him give us favor, good breaks, promotion.
00:01:43.493 --> 00:01:45.762
Doors. we've seen him give us favor, good breaks, promotion. that's the hand of god opening
00:01:45.828 --> 00:01:47.864
Favor, good breaks, promotion. that's the hand of god opening the door. but the same god that
00:01:47.931 --> 00:01:50.466
That's the hand of god opening the door. but the same god that opens doors will close doors.
00:01:50.533 --> 00:01:53.403
The door. but the same god that opens doors will close doors. you prayed but you didn't get
00:01:53.469 --> 00:01:55.538
Opens doors will close doors. you prayed but you didn't get the promotion. the loan didn't
00:01:55.605 --> 00:01:57.040
You prayed but you didn't get the promotion. the loan didn't go through. the relationship
00:01:57.106 --> 00:01:58.775
The promotion. the loan didn't go through. the relationship didn't work out. so often we
00:01:58.841 --> 00:02:00.910
Go through. the relationship didn't work out. so often we get discouraged. we kind of
00:02:00.977 --> 00:02:03.346
Didn't work out. so often we get discouraged. we kind of feel like god has let us down.
00:02:03.413 --> 00:02:05.748
Get discouraged. we kind of feel like god has let us down. but god can see the big picture
00:02:05.815 --> 00:02:08.017
Feel like god has let us down. but god can see the big picture for your life. god knows where
00:02:08.084 --> 00:02:09.919
But god can see the big picture for your life. god knows where every road is leading.
00:02:09.986 --> 00:02:12.388
For your life. god knows where every road is leading. he knows the dead ends.
00:02:12.455 --> 00:02:14.190
Every road is leading. he knows the dead ends. he can see around the corner.
00:02:14.257 --> 00:02:16.259
He knows the dead ends. he can see around the corner. to us it looks great.
00:02:16.326 --> 00:02:17.627
He can see around the corner. to us it looks great. what we can't see is there's
00:02:17.694 --> 00:02:19.262
To us it looks great. what we can't see is there's danger, there's heartache,
00:02:19.329 --> 00:02:21.431
What we can't see is there's danger, there's heartache, trouble up ahead.
00:02:21.497 --> 00:02:23.032
Danger, there's heartache, trouble up ahead. god knows the roads that are a
00:02:23.099 --> 00:02:24.734
Trouble up ahead. god knows the roads that are a big circle. we would go for
00:02:24.801 --> 00:02:26.669
God knows the roads that are a big circle. we would go for years and end up right back
00:02:26.736 --> 00:02:28.104
Big circle. we would go for years and end up right back where we started,
00:02:28.171 --> 00:02:29.672
Years and end up right back where we started, never making any progress.
00:02:29.739 --> 00:02:31.174
Where we started, never making any progress. a big part of faith is trusting
00:02:31.241 --> 00:02:33.776
Never making any progress. a big part of faith is trusting god when you don't understand
00:02:33.843 --> 00:02:36.646
A big part of faith is trusting god when you don't understand it. on the surface it looks
00:02:36.713 --> 00:02:38.414
God when you don't understand it. on the surface it looks perfect. you can't see any
00:02:38.481 --> 00:02:40.350
It. on the surface it looks perfect. you can't see any reason why it shouldn't work
00:02:40.416 --> 00:02:41.918
Perfect. you can't see any reason why it shouldn't work out. but god can see a thousand
00:02:41.985 --> 00:02:44.454
Reason why it shouldn't work out. but god can see a thousand things that we cannot see.
00:02:44.520 --> 00:02:46.990
Out. but god can see a thousand things that we cannot see. god may close the door because
00:02:47.056 --> 00:02:48.958
Things that we cannot see. god may close the door because you're believing too small.
00:02:49.025 --> 00:02:50.827
God may close the door because you're believing too small. if he opened it, it would limit
00:02:50.893 --> 00:02:52.395
You're believing too small. if he opened it, it would limit what he wants to do in your
00:02:52.462 --> 00:02:53.896
If he opened it, it would limit what he wants to do in your life. the door may close
00:02:53.963 --> 00:02:56.032
What he wants to do in your life. the door may close because it's not the right
00:02:56.099 --> 00:02:58.468
Life. the door may close because it's not the right time. there are other people
00:02:58.534 --> 00:02:59.836
Because it's not the right time. there are other people involved and they're not ready
00:02:59.902 --> 00:03:01.738
Time. there are other people involved and they're not ready yet. if god opened it now it
00:03:01.804 --> 00:03:04.173
Involved and they're not ready yet. if god opened it now it wouldn't work out.
00:03:04.240 --> 00:03:06.075
Yet. if god opened it now it wouldn't work out. bottom line is god has your best
00:03:06.142 --> 00:03:08.911
Wouldn't work out. bottom line is god has your best interest at heart.
00:03:08.978 --> 00:03:10.280
Bottom line is god has your best interest at heart. when a door closes you don't
00:03:10.346 --> 00:03:12.415
Interest at heart. when a door closes you don't know what god is saving you
00:03:12.482 --> 00:03:14.117
When a door closes you don't know what god is saving you from. if your prayers don't get
00:03:14.183 --> 00:03:16.419
Know what god is saving you from. if your prayers don't get answered the way you want,
00:03:16.486 --> 00:03:18.187
From. if your prayers don't get answered the way you want, instead of being discouraged,
00:03:18.254 --> 00:03:19.789
Answered the way you want, instead of being discouraged, feeling like god let you down,
00:03:19.856 --> 00:03:21.924
Instead of being discouraged, feeling like god let you down, why don't you have a bigger
00:03:21.991 --> 00:03:23.159
Feeling like god let you down, why don't you have a bigger perspective? the reason the
00:03:23.226 --> 00:03:24.861
Why don't you have a bigger perspective? the reason the door closed is because god has
00:03:24.927 --> 00:03:27.463
Perspective? the reason the door closed is because god has something better in store.
00:03:27.530 --> 00:03:29.265
Door closed is because god has something better in store. if god wanted you to have that
00:03:29.332 --> 00:03:30.900
Something better in store. if god wanted you to have that promotion you would have gotten
00:03:30.967 --> 00:03:32.268
If god wanted you to have that promotion you would have gotten it. shake it off and move
00:03:32.335 --> 00:03:34.103
Promotion you would have gotten it. shake it off and move forward. there is something
00:03:34.170 --> 00:03:35.605
It. shake it off and move forward. there is something better coming.
00:03:35.672 --> 00:03:36.639
Forward. there is something better coming. if god wanted that person to
00:03:36.706 --> 00:03:38.508
Better coming. if god wanted that person to stay that left you they would
00:03:38.574 --> 00:03:40.543
If god wanted that person to stay that left you they would have stayed.
00:03:40.610 --> 00:03:41.878
Stay that left you they would have stayed. shake it off.
00:03:41.944 --> 00:03:42.712
Have stayed. shake it off. the right people are in your
00:03:42.779 --> 00:03:43.946
Shake it off. the right people are in your future. friends, the closed
00:03:44.013 --> 00:03:46.916
The right people are in your future. friends, the closed doors are not an accident.
00:03:46.983 --> 00:03:49.118
Future. friends, the closed doors are not an accident. you may not understand it now.
00:03:49.185 --> 00:03:51.754
Doors are not an accident. you may not understand it now. to you it looks like the
00:03:51.821 --> 00:03:53.389
You may not understand it now. to you it looks like the opportunity of a lifetime just
00:03:53.456 --> 00:03:55.158
To you it looks like the opportunity of a lifetime just passed you by.
00:03:55.224 --> 00:03:56.459
Opportunity of a lifetime just passed you by. but one day you will look back
00:03:56.526 --> 00:03:58.394
Passed you by. but one day you will look back and thank god for the closed
00:03:58.461 --> 00:03:59.662
But one day you will look back and thank god for the closed doors because if god hadn't
00:03:59.729 --> 00:04:02.498
And thank god for the closed doors because if god hadn't closed the door you wouldn't
00:04:02.565 --> 00:04:03.566
Doors because if god hadn't closed the door you wouldn't have met the right person.
00:04:03.633 --> 00:04:05.234
Closed the door you wouldn't have met the right person. or if god hadn't closed the door
00:04:05.301 --> 00:04:07.003
Have met the right person. or if god hadn't closed the door you would have gotten stuck at
00:04:07.070 --> 00:04:08.338
Or if god hadn't closed the door you would have gotten stuck at one level and not seen the
00:04:08.404 --> 00:04:10.239
You would have gotten stuck at one level and not seen the amazing favor that god has in
00:04:10.306 --> 00:04:12.175
One level and not seen the amazing favor that god has in your future.
00:04:12.241 --> 00:04:13.776
Amazing favor that god has in your future. i used to get excited about my
00:04:13.843 --> 00:04:15.445
Your future. i used to get excited about my open doors and really down about
00:04:15.511 --> 00:04:17.780
I used to get excited about my open doors and really down about my closed doors.
00:04:17.847 --> 00:04:19.115
Open doors and really down about my closed doors. now, i thank god for my closed
00:04:19.182 --> 00:04:21.351
My closed doors. now, i thank god for my closed doors just as much as i do my
00:04:21.417 --> 00:04:23.586
Now, i thank god for my closed doors just as much as i do my open doors.
00:04:23.653 --> 00:04:24.987
Doors just as much as i do my open doors. i want you to come to this place
00:04:25.054 --> 00:04:26.456
Open doors. i want you to come to this place where you have such a trust in
00:04:26.522 --> 00:04:28.624
I want you to come to this place where you have such a trust in god, you are so confident that
00:04:28.691 --> 00:04:31.027
Where you have such a trust in god, you are so confident that he is directing your steps, you
00:04:31.094 --> 00:04:32.795
God, you are so confident that he is directing your steps, you say like david, "god, my life
00:04:32.862 --> 00:04:35.064
He is directing your steps, you say like david, "god, my life is in your hands."
00:04:35.131 --> 00:04:37.133
Say like david, "god, my life is in your hands." if a door closes and you don't
00:04:37.200 --> 00:04:39.235
Is in your hands." if a door closes and you don't get your way, you don't get
00:04:39.302 --> 00:04:40.803
If a door closes and you don't get your way, you don't get upset. your attitude is,
00:04:40.870 --> 00:04:43.139
Get your way, you don't get upset. your attitude is, "i know this door didn't close
00:04:43.206 --> 00:04:45.475
Upset. your attitude is, "i know this door didn't close by accident. god closed it on
00:04:45.541 --> 00:04:47.910
"i know this door didn't close by accident. god closed it on purpose and what god closes
00:04:47.977 --> 00:04:50.346
By accident. god closed it on purpose and what god closes i don't want to open.
00:04:50.413 --> 00:04:52.348
Purpose and what god closes i don't want to open. i don't want my way.
00:04:52.415 --> 00:04:53.583
I don't want to open. i don't want my way. i want his way.
00:04:53.649 --> 00:04:54.951
I don't want my way. i want his way. he knows what's best.
00:04:55.017 --> 00:04:56.219
I want his way. he knows what's best. he can see what i can't see.
00:04:56.285 --> 00:04:57.854
He knows what's best. he can see what i can't see. god, not my will but let yours
00:04:57.920 --> 00:05:00.423
He can see what i can't see. god, not my will but let yours be done."
00:05:00.490 --> 00:05:01.791
God, not my will but let yours be done." that's a very freeing way to
00:05:01.858 --> 00:05:03.426
Be done." that's a very freeing way to live. when you really believe
00:05:03.493 --> 00:05:05.395
That's a very freeing way to live. when you really believe god is in complete control it
00:05:05.461 --> 00:05:07.397
Live. when you really believe god is in complete control it takes all the pressure off.
00:05:07.463 --> 00:05:09.665
God is in complete control it takes all the pressure off. a few years ago this man flew to
00:05:09.732 --> 00:05:11.267
Takes all the pressure off. a few years ago this man flew to houston for a big job interview.
00:05:11.334 --> 00:05:13.870
A few years ago this man flew to houston for a big job interview. he was so excited about it.
00:05:13.936 --> 00:05:15.338
Houston for a big job interview. he was so excited about it. it was a top position at one of
00:05:15.405 --> 00:05:17.974
He was so excited about it. it was a top position at one of the largest companies in the
00:05:18.040 --> 00:05:19.575
It was a top position at one of the largest companies in the world. it looked like a golden
00:05:19.642 --> 00:05:22.311
The largest companies in the world. it looked like a golden opportunity, a huge boost to his
00:05:22.378 --> 00:05:24.080
World. it looked like a golden opportunity, a huge boost to his career. he was ready to give up
00:05:24.147 --> 00:05:26.516
Opportunity, a huge boost to his career. he was ready to give up his position of nearly 30 years
00:05:26.582 --> 00:05:28.751
Career. he was ready to give up his position of nearly 30 years and move his family here to
00:05:28.818 --> 00:05:30.820
His position of nearly 30 years and move his family here to town. he came to the service
00:05:30.887 --> 00:05:32.588
And move his family here to town. he came to the service and asked us to pray over this
00:05:32.655 --> 00:05:34.357
Town. he came to the service and asked us to pray over this big interview.
00:05:34.424 --> 00:05:35.525
And asked us to pray over this big interview. we prayed that god would give
00:05:35.591 --> 00:05:36.993
Big interview. we prayed that god would give him favor and cause him to stand
00:05:37.059 --> 00:05:38.861
We prayed that god would give him favor and cause him to stand out. in a few days he called
00:05:38.928 --> 00:05:40.763
Him favor and cause him to stand out. in a few days he called and he was on cloud 9.
00:05:40.830 --> 00:05:43.466
Out. in a few days he called and he was on cloud 9. everything went great.
00:05:43.533 --> 00:05:45.134
And he was on cloud 9. everything went great. it looked very promising.
00:05:45.201 --> 00:05:46.936
Everything went great. it looked very promising. several weeks went by and they
00:05:47.003 --> 00:05:48.504
It looked very promising. several weeks went by and they invited him back for
00:05:48.571 --> 00:05:49.639
Several weeks went by and they invited him back for a second interview.
00:05:49.705 --> 00:05:51.307
Invited him back for a second interview. he did the same thing.
00:05:51.374 --> 00:05:52.308
A second interview. he did the same thing. he came by the church.
00:05:52.375 --> 00:05:53.676
He did the same thing. he came by the church. we prayed favor, promotion,
00:05:53.743 --> 00:05:55.311
He came by the church. we prayed favor, promotion, on and on.
00:05:55.378 --> 00:05:56.345
We prayed favor, promotion, on and on. after talking with him for
00:05:56.412 --> 00:05:58.181
On and on. after talking with him for several hours that company
00:05:58.247 --> 00:05:59.782
After talking with him for several hours that company called him back in and said,
00:05:59.849 --> 00:06:01.818
Several hours that company called him back in and said, "we really like you.
00:06:01.884 --> 00:06:03.286
Called him back in and said, "we really like you. you're incredibly talented.
00:06:03.352 --> 00:06:04.921
"we really like you. you're incredibly talented. we just don't feel like you're
00:06:04.987 --> 00:06:07.356
You're incredibly talented. we just don't feel like you're the right fit for our
00:06:07.423 --> 00:06:08.424
We just don't feel like you're the right fit for our organization."
00:06:08.491 --> 00:06:09.992
The right fit for our organization." it was like they let the air out
00:06:10.059 --> 00:06:12.295
Organization." it was like they let the air out of his balloon.
00:06:12.361 --> 00:06:13.830
It was like they let the air out of his balloon. he came to the service like he
00:06:13.896 --> 00:06:15.598
Of his balloon. he came to the service like he had lost his last friend.
00:06:15.665 --> 00:06:17.467
He came to the service like he had lost his last friend. he looked 20 years older.
00:06:17.533 --> 00:06:19.669
Had lost his last friend. he looked 20 years older. he was so discouraged.
00:06:19.735 --> 00:06:21.304
He looked 20 years older. he was so discouraged. he said, "joel, i don't
00:06:21.370 --> 00:06:22.839
He was so discouraged. he said, "joel, i don't understand it. i prayed.
00:06:22.905 --> 00:06:24.941
He said, "joel, i don't understand it. i prayed. i believed. how could god let
00:06:25.007 --> 00:06:26.843
Understand it. i prayed. i believed. how could god let this happen?"
00:06:26.909 --> 00:06:28.478
I believed. how could god let this happen?" i told him what i'm telling you.
00:06:28.544 --> 00:06:30.279
This happen?" i told him what i'm telling you. the same god that opens doors
00:06:30.346 --> 00:06:32.615
I told him what i'm telling you. the same god that opens doors will close doors.
00:06:32.682 --> 00:06:34.417
The same god that opens doors will close doors. you have to trust him.
00:06:34.484 --> 00:06:36.152
Will close doors. you have to trust him. you may not understand it now
00:06:36.219 --> 00:06:37.954
You have to trust him. you may not understand it now but one day you will understand
00:06:38.020 --> 00:06:40.056
You may not understand it now but one day you will understand it. one day you will thank god
00:06:40.122 --> 00:06:42.024
But one day you will understand it. one day you will thank god that you didn't get that
00:06:42.091 --> 00:06:43.526
It. one day you will thank god that you didn't get that position. a couple of years
00:06:43.593 --> 00:06:45.761
That you didn't get that position. a couple of years later he showed up smiling from
00:06:45.828 --> 00:06:47.797
Position. a couple of years later he showed up smiling from ear to ear.
00:06:47.864 --> 00:06:49.165
Later he showed up smiling from ear to ear. he said, "joel, god knew what he
00:06:49.232 --> 00:06:50.666
Ear to ear. he said, "joel, god knew what he was doing."
00:06:50.733 --> 00:06:51.334
He said, "joel, god knew what he was doing." he told how that company was in
00:06:51.400 --> 00:06:53.870
Was doing." he told how that company was in bankruptcy.
00:06:53.936 --> 00:06:55.304
He told how that company was in bankruptcy. thousands of people were being
00:06:55.371 --> 00:06:57.039
Bankruptcy. thousands of people were being laid off.
00:06:57.106 --> 00:06:57.840
Thousands of people were being laid off. it was a big mess.
00:06:57.907 --> 00:06:58.941
Laid off. it was a big mess. all over the news.
00:06:59.008 --> 00:07:00.309
It was a big mess. all over the news. the whole company ended up
00:07:00.376 --> 00:07:01.711
All over the news. the whole company ended up shutting down.
00:07:01.777 --> 00:07:03.112
The whole company ended up shutting down. here's how good god is.
00:07:03.179 --> 00:07:04.914
Shutting down. here's how good god is. he was less than two years away
00:07:04.981 --> 00:07:06.883
Here's how good god is. he was less than two years away from retirement at that other
00:07:06.949 --> 00:07:08.951
He was less than two years away from retirement at that other company. if he would have
00:07:09.018 --> 00:07:10.720
From retirement at that other company. if he would have gotten that position he would
00:07:10.786 --> 00:07:12.722
Company. if he would have gotten that position he would not only be out of a job right
00:07:12.788 --> 00:07:14.657
Gotten that position he would not only be out of a job right now but he would have lost
00:07:14.724 --> 00:07:16.259
Not only be out of a job right now but he would have lost nearly 30 years of his
00:07:16.325 --> 00:07:18.628
Now but he would have lost nearly 30 years of his retirement benefits.
00:07:18.694 --> 00:07:20.363
Nearly 30 years of his retirement benefits. god knows what he is doing.
00:07:20.429 --> 00:07:22.698
Retirement benefits. god knows what he is doing. don't be discouraged by your
00:07:22.765 --> 00:07:24.066
God knows what he is doing. don't be discouraged by your closed doors.
00:07:24.133 --> 00:07:25.868
Don't be discouraged by your closed doors. (applause)
00:07:25.935 --> 00:07:26.936
Closed doors. (applause) if god wants a door to open you
00:07:27.003 --> 00:07:28.271
(applause) if god wants a door to open you can be certain it will open.
00:07:28.337 --> 00:07:31.674
If god wants a door to open you can be certain it will open. all the forces of darkness
00:07:31.741 --> 00:07:33.242
Can be certain it will open. all the forces of darkness cannot stop it. what i want you
00:07:33.309 --> 00:07:35.311
All the forces of darkness cannot stop it. what i want you to see is when you pray, you
00:07:35.378 --> 00:07:38.114
Cannot stop it. what i want you to see is when you pray, you believe, you stand in faith and
00:07:38.180 --> 00:07:39.749
To see is when you pray, you believe, you stand in faith and the door doesn't open take it
00:07:39.815 --> 00:07:42.485
Believe, you stand in faith and the door doesn't open take it as a sign from god.
00:07:42.552 --> 00:07:44.720
The door doesn't open take it as a sign from god. it's not his best.
00:07:44.787 --> 00:07:45.988
As a sign from god. it's not his best. sometimes, like this man, we're
00:07:46.055 --> 00:07:48.190
It's not his best. sometimes, like this man, we're so disappointed but the truth is
00:07:48.257 --> 00:07:50.860
Sometimes, like this man, we're so disappointed but the truth is god loves you too much to open
00:07:50.927 --> 00:07:52.795
So disappointed but the truth is god loves you too much to open that door. god is not letting
00:07:52.862 --> 00:07:54.830
God loves you too much to open that door. god is not letting you down. he is doing you a
00:07:54.897 --> 00:07:56.632
That door. god is not letting you down. he is doing you a favor. he is keeping you from
00:07:56.699 --> 00:07:58.334
You down. he is doing you a favor. he is keeping you from all kinds of heartache and
00:07:58.401 --> 00:07:59.735
Favor. he is keeping you from all kinds of heartache and pain. if we're really going to
00:07:59.802 --> 00:08:02.104
All kinds of heartache and pain. if we're really going to trust god we have to be content
00:08:02.171 --> 00:08:04.907
Pain. if we're really going to trust god we have to be content with the answer god gives us.
00:08:04.974 --> 00:08:07.343
Trust god we have to be content with the answer god gives us. so often we say we're trusting
00:08:07.410 --> 00:08:10.046
With the answer god gives us. so often we say we're trusting but we're only going to be happy
00:08:10.112 --> 00:08:12.481
So often we say we're trusting but we're only going to be happy if god does it our way, on our
00:08:12.548 --> 00:08:14.550
But we're only going to be happy if god does it our way, on our timetable.
00:08:14.617 --> 00:08:15.952
If god does it our way, on our timetable. no, you have to put the dream on
00:08:16.018 --> 00:08:17.987
Timetable. no, you have to put the dream on the altar and say,
00:08:18.054 --> 00:08:19.455
No, you have to put the dream on the altar and say, "god, if this is what you
00:08:19.522 --> 00:08:21.424
The altar and say, "god, if this is what you want for me. god, if this is
00:08:21.490 --> 00:08:23.459
"god, if this is what you want for me. god, if this is your best for my life. i know
00:08:23.526 --> 00:08:25.628
Want for me. god, if this is your best for my life. i know you are in complete control.
00:08:25.695 --> 00:08:27.630
Your best for my life. i know you are in complete control. there is no power greater than
00:08:27.697 --> 00:08:28.965
You are in complete control. there is no power greater than yours. god, i trust you.
00:08:29.031 --> 00:08:31.033
There is no power greater than yours. god, i trust you. if it happens i'm going to be
00:08:31.100 --> 00:08:32.501
Yours. god, i trust you. if it happens i'm going to be happy and thank you for it.
00:08:32.568 --> 00:08:34.303
If it happens i'm going to be happy and thank you for it. if it doesn't work out i'm not
00:08:34.370 --> 00:08:36.405
Happy and thank you for it. if it doesn't work out i'm not going to get discouraged.
00:08:36.472 --> 00:08:37.773
If it doesn't work out i'm not going to get discouraged. i'm not going to quit believing.
00:08:37.840 --> 00:08:39.642
Going to get discouraged. i'm not going to quit believing. i know that means you have
00:08:39.709 --> 00:08:41.544
I'm not going to quit believing. i know that means you have something better in store."
00:08:41.611 --> 00:08:43.446
I know that means you have something better in store." this takes all the pressure off.
00:08:43.512 --> 00:08:45.414
Something better in store." this takes all the pressure off. you're not frustrated if it
00:08:45.481 --> 00:08:47.550
This takes all the pressure off. you're not frustrated if it doesn't work out.
00:08:47.617 --> 00:08:49.118
You're not frustrated if it doesn't work out. you don't live in self-pity if
00:08:49.185 --> 00:08:50.987
Doesn't work out. you don't live in self-pity if it doesn't happen your way.
00:08:51.053 --> 00:08:52.922
You don't live in self-pity if it doesn't happen your way. you know the steps and the stops
00:08:52.989 --> 00:08:55.791
It doesn't happen your way. you know the steps and the stops of a good person are ordered by
00:08:55.858 --> 00:08:57.693
You know the steps and the stops of a good person are ordered by the lord. this was difficult
00:08:57.760 --> 00:08:59.395
Of a good person are ordered by the lord. this was difficult for me because you know how
00:08:59.462 --> 00:09:01.897
The lord. this was difficult for me because you know how some opportunities look so
00:09:01.964 --> 00:09:03.432
For me because you know how some opportunities look so great. in my mind i thought,
00:09:03.499 --> 00:09:05.901
Some opportunities look so great. in my mind i thought, "god, it's perfect. there will
00:09:05.968 --> 00:09:07.737
Great. in my mind i thought, "god, it's perfect. there will never be anything better."
00:09:07.803 --> 00:09:09.705
"god, it's perfect. there will never be anything better." the problem is our thinking is
00:09:09.772 --> 00:09:12.541
Never be anything better." the problem is our thinking is limited. god's plan for your
00:09:12.608 --> 00:09:14.644
The problem is our thinking is limited. god's plan for your life is so much bigger than
00:09:14.710 --> 00:09:16.746
Limited. god's plan for your life is so much bigger than your own plan that if god
00:09:16.812 --> 00:09:18.881
Life is so much bigger than your own plan that if god didn't close certain doors it
00:09:18.948 --> 00:09:20.950
Your own plan that if god didn't close certain doors it would keep you from the
00:09:21.017 --> 00:09:22.151
Didn't close certain doors it would keep you from the fullness of your destiny.
00:09:22.218 --> 00:09:24.053
Would keep you from the fullness of your destiny. a couple of years after my dad
00:09:24.120 --> 00:09:25.921
Fullness of your destiny. a couple of years after my dad went to be with the lord and i
00:09:25.988 --> 00:09:26.989
A couple of years after my dad went to be with the lord and i took over, the church really
00:09:27.056 --> 00:09:28.591
Went to be with the lord and i took over, the church really started growing. we needed
00:09:28.658 --> 00:09:30.059
Took over, the church really started growing. we needed property to build a new
00:09:30.126 --> 00:09:31.627
Started growing. we needed property to build a new sanctuary on. my father said
00:09:31.694 --> 00:09:34.030
Property to build a new sanctuary on. my father said that he would never move the
00:09:34.096 --> 00:09:35.631
Sanctuary on. my father said that he would never move the church. so we looked for
00:09:35.698 --> 00:09:37.533
That he would never move the church. so we looked for property as close to the other
00:09:37.600 --> 00:09:39.235
Church. so we looked for property as close to the other location as we could possibly
00:09:39.301 --> 00:09:40.870
Property as close to the other location as we could possibly find. we found this 100-acre
00:09:40.936 --> 00:09:44.440
Location as we could possibly find. we found this 100-acre tract of land right off the
00:09:44.507 --> 00:09:46.108
Find. we found this 100-acre tract of land right off the freeway about two miles from
00:09:46.175 --> 00:09:48.044
Tract of land right off the freeway about two miles from the other location.
00:09:48.110 --> 00:09:49.378
Freeway about two miles from the other location. it was perfect.
00:09:49.445 --> 00:09:51.013
The other location. it was perfect. we talked to the owner.
00:09:51.080 --> 00:09:52.481
It was perfect. we talked to the owner. he told how it had been on the
00:09:52.548 --> 00:09:54.083
We talked to the owner. he told how it had been on the market for over 20 years and he
00:09:54.150 --> 00:09:56.619
He told how it had been on the market for over 20 years and he had never had one offer, not one
00:09:56.686 --> 00:09:58.788
Market for over 20 years and he had never had one offer, not one person interested. we said,
00:09:58.854 --> 00:10:00.723
Had never had one offer, not one person interested. we said, "thank you, lord. you've saved
00:10:00.790 --> 00:10:02.191
Person interested. we said, "thank you, lord. you've saved this property for us."
00:10:02.258 --> 00:10:04.060
"thank you, lord. you've saved this property for us." after about six months of doing
00:10:04.126 --> 00:10:05.828
This property for us." after about six months of doing our research and our soil tests
00:10:05.895 --> 00:10:07.830
After about six months of doing our research and our soil tests we went to close on the
00:10:07.897 --> 00:10:09.231
Our research and our soil tests we went to close on the property. we had an 8 o'clock
00:10:09.298 --> 00:10:11.300
We went to close on the property. we had an 8 o'clock meeting. we walked in at 7:45.
00:10:11.367 --> 00:10:14.136
Property. we had an 8 o'clock meeting. we walked in at 7:45. i'll never forget it.
00:10:14.203 --> 00:10:15.671
Meeting. we walked in at 7:45. i'll never forget it. the secretary came out and said,
00:10:15.738 --> 00:10:17.540
I'll never forget it. the secretary came out and said, "i'm so sorry but the owner sold
00:10:17.606 --> 00:10:19.875
The secretary came out and said, "i'm so sorry but the owner sold the property last night to
00:10:19.942 --> 00:10:22.111
"i'm so sorry but the owner sold the property last night to another party."
00:10:22.178 --> 00:10:24.046
The property last night to another party." i was so disappointed.
00:10:24.113 --> 00:10:25.781
Another party." i was so disappointed. i just knew that was the devil
00:10:25.848 --> 00:10:27.349
I was so disappointed. i just knew that was the devil stealing our property.
00:10:27.416 --> 00:10:28.884
I just knew that was the devil stealing our property. (laughter)
00:10:28.951 --> 00:10:30.352
Stealing our property. (laughter) i went home very discouraged.
00:10:30.419 --> 00:10:32.922
(laughter) i went home very discouraged. i told victoria what happened.
00:10:32.988 --> 00:10:34.957
I went home very discouraged. i told victoria what happened. she said, "listen, joel.
00:10:35.024 --> 00:10:36.258
I told victoria what happened. she said, "listen, joel. god closed that door for a
00:10:36.325 --> 00:10:37.960
She said, "listen, joel. god closed that door for a reason. we're not going to get
00:10:38.027 --> 00:10:39.895
God closed that door for a reason. we're not going to get discouraged. we're going to
00:10:39.962 --> 00:10:40.830
Reason. we're not going to get discouraged. we're going to keep a good attitude. god has
00:10:40.896 --> 00:10:42.431
Discouraged. we're going to keep a good attitude. god has something better in store."
00:10:42.498 --> 00:10:44.867
Keep a good attitude. god has something better in store." in my mind i couldn't believe it
00:10:44.934 --> 00:10:47.269
Something better in store." in my mind i couldn't believe it but in my heart, down in here,
00:10:47.336 --> 00:10:49.605
In my mind i couldn't believe it but in my heart, down in here, i knew what she was saying was
00:10:49.672 --> 00:10:51.574
But in my heart, down in here, i knew what she was saying was exactly true. i thought,
00:10:51.640 --> 00:10:52.842
I knew what she was saying was exactly true. i thought, "god is still on the throne.
00:10:52.908 --> 00:10:54.710
Exactly true. i thought, "god is still on the throne. his plan cannot be stopped by
00:10:54.777 --> 00:10:56.746
"god is still on the throne. his plan cannot be stopped by a bad break, a disappointment,
00:10:56.812 --> 00:10:58.748
His plan cannot be stopped by a bad break, a disappointment, by a person.
00:10:58.814 --> 00:10:59.749
A bad break, a disappointment, by a person. god has the final say."
00:10:59.815 --> 00:11:01.751
By a person. god has the final say." i made a decision that day.
00:11:01.817 --> 00:11:04.019
God has the final say." i made a decision that day. instead of sitting around in
00:11:04.086 --> 00:11:05.788
I made a decision that day. instead of sitting around in self-pity saying,
00:11:05.855 --> 00:11:07.156
Instead of sitting around in self-pity saying, "god, why didn't it work out?"
00:11:07.223 --> 00:11:09.191
Self-pity saying, "god, why didn't it work out?" i chose to believe that god was
00:11:09.258 --> 00:11:11.427
"god, why didn't it work out?" i chose to believe that god was still in control. it was a few
00:11:11.494 --> 00:11:13.796
I chose to believe that god was still in control. it was a few months later i got a call from
00:11:13.863 --> 00:11:16.031
Still in control. it was a few months later i got a call from a friend. he said,
00:11:16.098 --> 00:11:17.533
Months later i got a call from a friend. he said, "hey, joel. the houston rockets
00:11:17.600 --> 00:11:18.901
A friend. he said, "hey, joel. the houston rockets basketball team is moving out
00:11:18.968 --> 00:11:21.137
"hey, joel. the houston rockets basketball team is moving out of the compaq center.
00:11:21.203 --> 00:11:22.505
Basketball team is moving out of the compaq center. that would be a great facility
00:11:22.571 --> 00:11:24.573
Of the compaq center. that would be a great facility for lakewood."
00:11:24.640 --> 00:11:25.941
That would be a great facility for lakewood." when he said that something came
00:11:26.008 --> 00:11:27.476
For lakewood." when he said that something came alive on the inside.
00:11:27.543 --> 00:11:29.345
When he said that something came alive on the inside. i knew right then and there that
00:11:29.411 --> 00:11:31.747
Alive on the inside. i knew right then and there that was the reason god closed the
00:11:31.814 --> 00:11:33.415
I knew right then and there that was the reason god closed the other door.
00:11:33.482 --> 00:11:34.950
Was the reason god closed the other door. it was too small.
00:11:35.017 --> 00:11:36.519
Other door. it was too small. it would have limited what god
00:11:36.585 --> 00:11:38.220
It was too small. it would have limited what god wanted to do.
00:11:38.287 --> 00:11:39.221
It would have limited what god wanted to do. things began to fall into place
00:11:39.288 --> 00:11:40.589
Wanted to do. things began to fall into place and here we are today enjoying
00:11:40.656 --> 00:11:42.458
Things began to fall into place and here we are today enjoying the fullness of what god
00:11:42.525 --> 00:11:44.293
And here we are today enjoying the fullness of what god had in store.
00:11:44.360 --> 00:11:45.895
The fullness of what god had in store. (applause)
00:11:45.961 --> 00:11:48.597
Had in store. (applause) but back then i couldn't fathom
00:11:48.664 --> 00:11:50.933
(applause) but back then i couldn't fathom this. it wasn't even on my
00:11:51.000 --> 00:11:52.301
But back then i couldn't fathom this. it wasn't even on my radar. this was exceedingly,
00:11:52.368 --> 00:11:55.237
This. it wasn't even on my radar. this was exceedingly, abundantly above and beyond.
00:11:55.304 --> 00:11:57.239
Radar. this was exceedingly, abundantly above and beyond. i would have been happy with
00:11:57.306 --> 00:11:58.541
Abundantly above and beyond. i would have been happy with the other property.
00:11:58.607 --> 00:11:59.842
I would have been happy with the other property. i would have celebrated god's
00:11:59.909 --> 00:12:01.110
The other property. i would have celebrated god's goodness if he would have done
00:12:01.177 --> 00:12:02.745
I would have celebrated god's goodness if he would have done it that way.
00:12:02.812 --> 00:12:03.679
Goodness if he would have done it that way. but god's dream for your life is
00:12:03.746 --> 00:12:05.748
It that way. but god's dream for your life is so much bigger than your own
00:12:05.815 --> 00:12:08.217
But god's dream for your life is so much bigger than your own dream. there will be times that
00:12:08.284 --> 00:12:10.519
So much bigger than your own dream. there will be times that a door closes that you don't
00:12:10.586 --> 00:12:12.655
Dream. there will be times that a door closes that you don't understand.
00:12:12.721 --> 00:12:14.390
A door closes that you don't understand. it doesn't make sense.
00:12:14.456 --> 00:12:15.591
Understand. it doesn't make sense. they were the perfect man, the
00:12:15.658 --> 00:12:17.660
It doesn't make sense. they were the perfect man, the perfect woman, but they broke
00:12:17.726 --> 00:12:19.061
They were the perfect man, the perfect woman, but they broke off the relationship.
00:12:19.128 --> 00:12:20.663
Perfect woman, but they broke off the relationship. the house was just what you
00:12:20.729 --> 00:12:22.598
Off the relationship. the house was just what you wanted. it even had the
00:12:22.665 --> 00:12:24.099
The house was just what you wanted. it even had the wallpaper you would have picked
00:12:24.166 --> 00:12:25.467
Wanted. it even had the wallpaper you would have picked in the living room but they
00:12:25.534 --> 00:12:27.036
Wallpaper you would have picked in the living room but they didn't accept your offer.
00:12:27.102 --> 00:12:28.838
In the living room but they didn't accept your offer. the loan didn't go through.
00:12:28.904 --> 00:12:30.272
Didn't accept your offer. the loan didn't go through. it doesn't make sense but one
00:12:30.339 --> 00:12:33.309
The loan didn't go through. it doesn't make sense but one day it will make sense.
00:12:33.375 --> 00:12:34.743
It doesn't make sense but one day it will make sense. one day you'll have your
00:12:34.810 --> 00:12:35.945
Day it will make sense. one day you'll have your compaq center.
00:12:36.011 --> 00:12:37.079
One day you'll have your compaq center. you'll look back and say, "god,
00:12:37.146 --> 00:12:38.547
Compaq center. you'll look back and say, "god, thank you that the property was
00:12:38.614 --> 00:12:40.282
You'll look back and say, "god, thank you that the property was sold out from under me."
00:12:40.349 --> 00:12:41.717
Thank you that the property was sold out from under me." (applause)
00:12:41.784 --> 00:12:42.618
Sold out from under me." (applause) "god, thank you that the loan
00:12:42.685 --> 00:12:44.420
(applause) "god, thank you that the loan didn't go through."
00:12:44.486 --> 00:12:46.388
"god, thank you that the loan didn't go through." "god, thank you that that old
00:12:46.455 --> 00:12:47.623
Didn't go through." "god, thank you that that old goat walked out on me-i mean,
00:12:47.690 --> 00:12:49.024
"god, thank you that that old goat walked out on me-i mean, that person walked out on me."
00:12:49.091 --> 00:12:50.626
Goat walked out on me-i mean, that person walked out on me." (laughter/applause)
00:12:50.693 --> 00:12:52.394
That person walked out on me." (laughter/applause) here's the question.
00:12:52.461 --> 00:12:53.495
(laughter/applause) here's the question. will you stay in faith while you
00:12:53.562 --> 00:12:56.599
Here's the question. will you stay in faith while you wait to see what god is up to?
00:12:56.665 --> 00:13:00.002
Will you stay in faith while you wait to see what god is up to? will you not get discouraged and
00:13:00.069 --> 00:13:01.871
Wait to see what god is up to? will you not get discouraged and start complaining,
00:13:01.937 --> 00:13:03.005
Will you not get discouraged and start complaining, "nothing good ever
00:13:03.072 --> 00:13:04.206
Start complaining, "nothing good ever happens to me. i can't believe
00:13:04.273 --> 00:13:05.708
"nothing good ever happens to me. i can't believe i didn't get the promotion.
00:13:05.774 --> 00:13:07.309
Happens to me. i can't believe i didn't get the promotion. i've been at the company longer
00:13:07.376 --> 00:13:08.477
I didn't get the promotion. i've been at the company longer than anybody else."
00:13:08.544 --> 00:13:10.179
I've been at the company longer than anybody else." or, "i treated this girl like a
00:13:10.246 --> 00:13:11.747
Than anybody else." or, "i treated this girl like a queen and she just wants to be
00:13:11.814 --> 00:13:14.316
Or, "i treated this girl like a queen and she just wants to be friends. she says i'm just
00:13:14.383 --> 00:13:16.318
Queen and she just wants to be friends. she says i'm just like her brother."
00:13:16.385 --> 00:13:17.586
Friends. she says i'm just like her brother." (laughter)
00:13:17.653 --> 00:13:18.854
Like her brother." (laughter) "god, i don't want to be a
00:13:18.921 --> 00:13:19.922
(laughter) "god, i don't want to be a brother. i want to be a
00:13:19.989 --> 00:13:20.723
"god, i don't want to be a brother. i want to be a husband."
00:13:20.789 --> 00:13:21.657
Brother. i want to be a husband." (laughter)
00:13:21.724 --> 00:13:22.791
Husband." (laughter) all of us have been brothers
00:13:22.858 --> 00:13:23.592
(laughter) all of us have been brothers before, but...trust god with
00:13:23.659 --> 00:13:27.062
All of us have been brothers before, but...trust god with your life. he knows what he is
00:13:27.129 --> 00:13:28.430
Before, but...trust god with your life. he knows what he is doing. i pray every day,
00:13:28.497 --> 00:13:31.300
Your life. he knows what he is doing. i pray every day, "god, open the right doors and
00:13:31.367 --> 00:13:33.702
Doing. i pray every day, "god, open the right doors and close the wrong doors.
00:13:33.769 --> 00:13:35.504
"god, open the right doors and close the wrong doors. god, bring the right people
00:13:35.571 --> 00:13:37.006
Close the wrong doors. god, bring the right people across my path. weed out those
00:13:37.072 --> 00:13:39.108
God, bring the right people across my path. weed out those that shouldn't be there."
00:13:39.174 --> 00:13:40.709
Across my path. weed out those that shouldn't be there." i've learned the closed doors
00:13:40.776 --> 00:13:42.912
That shouldn't be there." i've learned the closed doors are just as important as the
00:13:42.978 --> 00:13:44.346
I've learned the closed doors are just as important as the open doors. you know what
00:13:44.413 --> 00:13:45.881
Are just as important as the open doors. you know what brought us to this facility?
00:13:45.948 --> 00:13:47.416
Open doors. you know what brought us to this facility? a closed door.
00:13:47.483 --> 00:13:49.218
Brought us to this facility? a closed door. don't be discouraged by your
00:13:49.285 --> 00:13:50.719
A closed door. don't be discouraged by your closed doors. that's god
00:13:50.786 --> 00:13:52.388
Don't be discouraged by your closed doors. that's god protecting you from heartache.
00:13:52.454 --> 00:13:54.556
Closed doors. that's god protecting you from heartache. that's god keeping you from the
00:13:54.623 --> 00:13:56.191
Protecting you from heartache. that's god keeping you from the wrong people. that's god not
00:13:56.258 --> 00:13:58.360
That's god keeping you from the wrong people. that's god not letting you live a limited
00:13:58.427 --> 00:13:59.795
Wrong people. that's god not letting you live a limited life. you may be like me.
00:13:59.862 --> 00:14:01.830
Letting you live a limited life. you may be like me. you want the empty piece of
00:14:01.897 --> 00:14:03.832
Life. you may be like me. you want the empty piece of property. but god has a
00:14:03.899 --> 00:14:05.601
You want the empty piece of property. but god has a building already built for you.
00:14:05.668 --> 00:14:08.804
Property. but god has a building already built for you. he has more than you can ask or
00:14:08.871 --> 00:14:10.439
Building already built for you. he has more than you can ask or think-an exceedingly, abundantly
00:14:10.506 --> 00:14:13.709
He has more than you can ask or think-an exceedingly, abundantly above and beyond future.
00:14:13.776 --> 00:14:14.710
Think-an exceedingly, abundantly above and beyond future. (applause)
00:14:14.777 --> 00:14:16.278
Above and beyond future. (applause) god loves you so much
00:14:16.345 --> 00:14:17.913
(applause) god loves you so much that he hasn't answered certain
00:14:17.980 --> 00:14:19.581
God loves you so much that he hasn't answered certain prayers. he hasn't allowed
00:14:19.648 --> 00:14:21.583
That he hasn't answered certain prayers. he hasn't allowed certain people into your life
00:14:21.650 --> 00:14:23.552
Prayers. he hasn't allowed certain people into your life that you really wanted because
00:14:23.619 --> 00:14:25.387
Certain people into your life that you really wanted because they would have limited your
00:14:25.454 --> 00:14:26.922
That you really wanted because they would have limited your growth. learn to trust him.
00:14:26.989 --> 00:14:29.158
They would have limited your growth. learn to trust him. thank him for your open doors.
00:14:29.224 --> 00:14:31.427
Growth. learn to trust him. thank him for your open doors. celebrate his goodness.
00:14:31.493 --> 00:14:32.761
Thank him for your open doors. celebrate his goodness. but thank him just as much for
00:14:32.828 --> 00:14:34.630
Celebrate his goodness. but thank him just as much for your closed doors knowing that
00:14:34.697 --> 00:14:36.265
But thank him just as much for your closed doors knowing that he is still directing your
00:14:36.332 --> 00:14:37.866
Your closed doors knowing that he is still directing your steps. some of you today are
00:14:37.933 --> 00:14:40.235
He is still directing your steps. some of you today are discouraged because your plan
00:14:40.302 --> 00:14:41.704
Steps. some of you today are discouraged because your plan didn't work out.
00:14:41.770 --> 00:14:43.472
Discouraged because your plan didn't work out. the man, the woman, they didn't
00:14:43.539 --> 00:14:45.107
Didn't work out. the man, the woman, they didn't marry you.
00:14:45.174 --> 00:14:46.342
The man, the woman, they didn't marry you. you didn't get the position you
00:14:46.408 --> 00:14:47.509
Marry you. you didn't get the position you were hoping for. shake it off.
00:14:47.576 --> 00:14:49.878
You didn't get the position you were hoping for. shake it off. move forward.
00:14:49.945 --> 00:14:51.146
Were hoping for. shake it off. move forward. god has something better in
00:14:51.213 --> 00:14:52.715
Move forward. god has something better in front of you.
00:14:52.781 --> 00:14:53.749
God has something better in front of you. god is not hindering you.
00:14:53.816 --> 00:14:55.684
Front of you. god is not hindering you. he is helping you.
00:14:55.751 --> 00:14:57.219
God is not hindering you. he is helping you. he is getting you in position
00:14:57.286 --> 00:14:58.587
He is helping you. he is getting you in position for the amazing future he has in
00:14:58.654 --> 00:15:00.556
He is getting you in position for the amazing future he has in store.
00:15:00.622 --> 00:15:01.123
For the amazing future he has in store. when you come to a closed door
00:15:01.190 --> 00:15:03.058
Store. when you come to a closed door that is a test of your faith.
00:15:03.125 --> 00:15:05.794
When you come to a closed door that is a test of your faith. are you going to get bitter,
00:15:05.861 --> 00:15:07.896
That is a test of your faith. are you going to get bitter, live in self-pity, give up on
00:15:07.963 --> 00:15:10.199
Are you going to get bitter, live in self-pity, give up on your dreams or are you going to
00:15:10.265 --> 00:15:12.468
Live in self-pity, give up on your dreams or are you going to move forward knowing that god is
00:15:12.534 --> 00:15:14.136
Your dreams or are you going to move forward knowing that god is still in control?
00:15:14.203 --> 00:15:16.472
Move forward knowing that god is still in control? if you will pass the test god
00:15:16.538 --> 00:15:18.841
Still in control? if you will pass the test god will release what he has in your
00:15:18.907 --> 00:15:21.043
If you will pass the test god will release what he has in your future. and many times it will
00:15:21.110 --> 00:15:23.278
Will release what he has in your future. and many times it will be exactly what you're praying
00:15:23.345 --> 00:15:25.581
Future. and many times it will be exactly what you're praying for. god will bring that person
00:15:25.647 --> 00:15:27.716
Be exactly what you're praying for. god will bring that person back. or he will bring an
00:15:27.783 --> 00:15:29.284
For. god will bring that person back. or he will bring an opportunity or that dream to
00:15:29.351 --> 00:15:30.686
Back. or he will bring an opportunity or that dream to pass. god just wants to see do
00:15:30.753 --> 00:15:32.988
Opportunity or that dream to pass. god just wants to see do you trust him enough to be
00:15:33.055 --> 00:15:34.823
Pass. god just wants to see do you trust him enough to be happy even if it doesn't happen
00:15:34.890 --> 00:15:37.192
You trust him enough to be happy even if it doesn't happen your way.
00:15:37.259 --> 00:15:39.094
Happy even if it doesn't happen your way. that's what happened with
00:15:39.161 --> 00:15:40.029
Your way. that's what happened with abraham.
00:15:40.095 --> 00:15:40.629
That's what happened with abraham. god instructed him to put his
00:15:40.696 --> 00:15:42.231
Abraham. god instructed him to put his own son on the altar, the thing
00:15:42.297 --> 00:15:45.067
God instructed him to put his own son on the altar, the thing that meant the most to him.
00:15:45.134 --> 00:15:46.735
Own son on the altar, the thing that meant the most to him. just when abraham was going to
00:15:46.802 --> 00:15:48.470
That meant the most to him. just when abraham was going to harm him god said,
00:15:48.537 --> 00:15:49.905
Just when abraham was going to harm him god said, "no, abraham. don't do it.
00:15:49.972 --> 00:15:51.440
Harm him god said, "no, abraham. don't do it. i just wanted to see if you
00:15:51.507 --> 00:15:53.475
"no, abraham. don't do it. i just wanted to see if you trusted me enough to give me
00:15:53.542 --> 00:15:55.544
I just wanted to see if you trusted me enough to give me your own son."
00:15:55.611 --> 00:15:57.513
Trusted me enough to give me your own son." abraham passed the test.
00:15:57.579 --> 00:15:59.715
Your own son." abraham passed the test. and what happened?
00:15:59.782 --> 00:16:00.516
Abraham passed the test. and what happened? god gave him back what he really
00:16:00.582 --> 00:16:02.351
And what happened? god gave him back what he really wanted, the thing that meant the
00:16:02.418 --> 00:16:04.153
God gave him back what he really wanted, the thing that meant the most to him.
00:16:04.219 --> 00:16:05.187
Wanted, the thing that meant the most to him. when you face a disappointment,
00:16:05.254 --> 00:16:07.189
Most to him. when you face a disappointment, a closed door, your plans don't
00:16:07.256 --> 00:16:08.590
When you face a disappointment, a closed door, your plans don't work out and you keep a good
00:16:08.657 --> 00:16:10.192
A closed door, your plans don't work out and you keep a good attitude, you stay in faith, you
00:16:10.259 --> 00:16:13.228
Work out and you keep a good attitude, you stay in faith, you are passing the test.
00:16:13.295 --> 00:16:14.630
Attitude, you stay in faith, you are passing the test. that's what allows god to give
00:16:14.696 --> 00:16:16.498
Are passing the test. that's what allows god to give you back what you really want
00:16:16.565 --> 00:16:18.400
That's what allows god to give you back what you really want the most.
00:16:18.467 --> 00:16:19.234
You back what you really want the most. proverbs 20 verse 24 says,
00:16:19.301 --> 00:16:21.737
The most. proverbs 20 verse 24 says, "since the lord is directing our
00:16:21.804 --> 00:16:24.640
Proverbs 20 verse 24 says, "since the lord is directing our steps why do we try to figure
00:16:24.706 --> 00:16:26.875
"since the lord is directing our steps why do we try to figure out everything that happens
00:16:26.942 --> 00:16:28.877
Steps why do we try to figure out everything that happens along the way?"
00:16:28.944 --> 00:16:30.712
Out everything that happens along the way?" some of you today could get free
00:16:30.779 --> 00:16:32.414
Along the way?" some of you today could get free if you would just quit trying to
00:16:32.481 --> 00:16:34.183
Some of you today could get free if you would just quit trying to figure everything out.
00:16:34.249 --> 00:16:36.018
If you would just quit trying to figure everything out. "god, why did i go through that
00:16:36.085 --> 00:16:37.553
Figure everything out. "god, why did i go through that breakup? i'm a good person."
00:16:37.619 --> 00:16:39.788
"god, why did i go through that breakup? i'm a good person." "god, why did they sell that
00:16:39.855 --> 00:16:41.223
Breakup? i'm a good person." "god, why did they sell that property out from under us?"
00:16:41.290 --> 00:16:43.058
"god, why did they sell that property out from under us?" no, if you're trying to figure
00:16:43.125 --> 00:16:44.760
Property out from under us?" no, if you're trying to figure everything out all that is going
00:16:44.827 --> 00:16:46.628
No, if you're trying to figure everything out all that is going to do is make you confused.
00:16:46.695 --> 00:16:49.031
Everything out all that is going to do is make you confused. let it go and move forward.
00:16:49.098 --> 00:16:51.733
To do is make you confused. let it go and move forward. god can see things that you
00:16:51.800 --> 00:16:53.669
Let it go and move forward. god can see things that you can't see. it may not make
00:16:53.735 --> 00:16:56.271
God can see things that you can't see. it may not make sense right now but one day
00:16:56.338 --> 00:16:58.107
Can't see. it may not make sense right now but one day when god's whole plan unfolds
00:16:58.173 --> 00:17:01.176
Sense right now but one day when god's whole plan unfolds you will see what god is up to.
00:17:01.243 --> 00:17:03.345
When god's whole plan unfolds you will see what god is up to. a part of trusting is saying,
00:17:03.412 --> 00:17:05.747
You will see what god is up to. a part of trusting is saying, "god, i don't understand it.
00:17:05.814 --> 00:17:07.749
A part of trusting is saying, "god, i don't understand it. it doesn't seem fair. but god,
00:17:07.816 --> 00:17:09.918
"god, i don't understand it. it doesn't seem fair. but god, i believe that my steps and my
00:17:09.985 --> 00:17:12.821
It doesn't seem fair. but god, i believe that my steps and my stops are ordered by you.
00:17:12.888 --> 00:17:15.224
I believe that my steps and my stops are ordered by you. i know just as you can open
00:17:15.290 --> 00:17:17.126
Stops are ordered by you. i know just as you can open doors you will close doors.
00:17:17.192 --> 00:17:18.760
I know just as you can open doors you will close doors. so i'm going to keep a good
00:17:18.827 --> 00:17:19.895
Doors you will close doors. so i'm going to keep a good attitude. i'm going to move
00:17:19.962 --> 00:17:21.063
So i'm going to keep a good attitude. i'm going to move forward in faith knowing
00:17:21.130 --> 00:17:22.397
Attitude. i'm going to move forward in faith knowing that you have my best
00:17:22.464 --> 00:17:23.398
Forward in faith knowing that you have my best interest at heart."
00:17:23.465 --> 00:17:25.100
That you have my best interest at heart." i read about this lady that was
00:17:25.167 --> 00:17:27.102
Interest at heart." i read about this lady that was complaining about everything
00:17:27.169 --> 00:17:28.403
I read about this lady that was complaining about everything that went wrong that day.
00:17:28.470 --> 00:17:30.239
Complaining about everything that went wrong that day. she said,
00:17:30.305 --> 00:17:30.906
That went wrong that day. she said, "god, why did you let
00:17:30.973 --> 00:17:32.107
She said, "god, why did you let so many bad things happen to
00:17:32.174 --> 00:17:33.876
"god, why did you let so many bad things happen to me? my alarm didn't go off and
00:17:33.942 --> 00:17:36.445
So many bad things happen to me? my alarm didn't go off and i was late to work. at lunch
00:17:36.512 --> 00:17:38.580
Me? my alarm didn't go off and i was late to work. at lunch they made my sandwich wrong
00:17:38.647 --> 00:17:40.182
I was late to work. at lunch they made my sandwich wrong and i had to send it back.
00:17:40.249 --> 00:17:42.351
They made my sandwich wrong and i had to send it back. driving home my cell phone
00:17:42.417 --> 00:17:44.153
And i had to send it back. driving home my cell phone dropped the call right in the
00:17:44.219 --> 00:17:46.021
Driving home my cell phone dropped the call right in the middle of a conversation.
00:17:46.088 --> 00:17:47.923
Dropped the call right in the middle of a conversation. to top it off god when i got
00:17:47.990 --> 00:17:49.725
Middle of a conversation. to top it off god when i got home i wanted to put my feet
00:17:49.791 --> 00:17:51.560
To top it off god when i got home i wanted to put my feet in the foot massager just to
00:17:51.627 --> 00:17:53.829
Home i wanted to put my feet in the foot massager just to relax but it wouldn't turn on.
00:17:53.896 --> 00:17:56.064
In the foot massager just to relax but it wouldn't turn on. god, nothing went right today."
00:17:56.131 --> 00:17:58.066
Relax but it wouldn't turn on. god, nothing went right today." god said,
00:17:58.133 --> 00:17:59.401
God, nothing went right today." god said, "all right. let me go down the
00:17:59.468 --> 00:18:00.402
God said, "all right. let me go down the list. your alarm didn't go off
00:18:00.469 --> 00:18:02.905
"all right. let me go down the list. your alarm didn't go off because there was a drunk
00:18:02.971 --> 00:18:04.506
List. your alarm didn't go off because there was a drunk driver on the freeway.
00:18:04.573 --> 00:18:06.375
Because there was a drunk driver on the freeway. i delayed you on purpose so you
00:18:06.441 --> 00:18:07.776
Driver on the freeway. i delayed you on purpose so you wouldn't be harmed.
00:18:07.843 --> 00:18:09.311
I delayed you on purpose so you wouldn't be harmed. and your sandwich, you had to
00:18:09.378 --> 00:18:10.512
Wouldn't be harmed. and your sandwich, you had to send that back because the first
00:18:10.579 --> 00:18:12.080
And your sandwich, you had to send that back because the first person that made it wasn't
00:18:12.147 --> 00:18:13.415
Send that back because the first person that made it wasn't feeling well and i didn't want
00:18:13.482 --> 00:18:15.217
Person that made it wasn't feeling well and i didn't want you to catch what they had so i
00:18:15.284 --> 00:18:16.552
Feeling well and i didn't want you to catch what they had so i had somebody else remake it.
00:18:16.618 --> 00:18:19.321
You to catch what they had so i had somebody else remake it. the phone call driving home, i
00:18:19.388 --> 00:18:21.390
Had somebody else remake it. the phone call driving home, i caused it to drop on purpose
00:18:21.456 --> 00:18:23.058
The phone call driving home, i caused it to drop on purpose because that person was going to
00:18:23.125 --> 00:18:25.160
Caused it to drop on purpose because that person was going to spread rumors and fill you with
00:18:25.227 --> 00:18:27.029
Because that person was going to spread rumors and fill you with all kinds of trash.
00:18:27.095 --> 00:18:28.397
Spread rumors and fill you with all kinds of trash. i didn't want you to be
00:18:28.463 --> 00:18:29.231
All kinds of trash. i didn't want you to be contaminated. and oh yeah,
00:18:29.298 --> 00:18:31.633
I didn't want you to be contaminated. and oh yeah, that foot massager?
00:18:31.700 --> 00:18:32.935
Contaminated. and oh yeah, that foot massager? it had a short in it.
00:18:33.001 --> 00:18:34.469
That foot massager? it had a short in it. if it would have turned on it
00:18:34.536 --> 00:18:35.704
It had a short in it. if it would have turned on it would have blown out power to
00:18:35.771 --> 00:18:37.039
If it would have turned on it would have blown out power to the whole house and i didn't
00:18:37.105 --> 00:18:38.507
Would have blown out power to the whole house and i didn't think you would want to sit
00:18:38.574 --> 00:18:39.708
The whole house and i didn't think you would want to sit around in the dark all evening
00:18:39.775 --> 00:18:40.776
Think you would want to sit around in the dark all evening so i caused it to not turn on."
00:18:40.842 --> 00:18:43.979
Around in the dark all evening so i caused it to not turn on." what's my point?
00:18:44.046 --> 00:18:44.880
So i caused it to not turn on." what's my point? god knows exactly what he is
00:18:44.947 --> 00:18:46.348
What's my point? god knows exactly what he is doing. everything about your
00:18:46.415 --> 00:18:48.016
God knows exactly what he is doing. everything about your life is calculated.
00:18:48.083 --> 00:18:49.551
Doing. everything about your life is calculated. (applause)
00:18:49.618 --> 00:18:52.054
Life is calculated. (applause) take this in the right way.
00:18:52.120 --> 00:18:53.455
(applause) take this in the right way. you may not understand it but
00:18:53.522 --> 00:18:55.257
Take this in the right way. you may not understand it but it's because you're not god.
00:18:55.324 --> 00:18:57.726
You may not understand it but it's because you're not god. god has a reason.
00:18:57.793 --> 00:18:59.428
It's because you're not god. god has a reason. every door that's closed, god
00:18:59.494 --> 00:19:01.196
God has a reason. every door that's closed, god had a purpose for it closing.
00:19:01.263 --> 00:19:03.765
Every door that's closed, god had a purpose for it closing. since the lord is directing our
00:19:03.832 --> 00:19:05.667
Had a purpose for it closing. since the lord is directing our steps let's don't try to figure
00:19:05.734 --> 00:19:07.336
Since the lord is directing our steps let's don't try to figure out everything that happens
00:19:07.402 --> 00:19:09.204
Steps let's don't try to figure out everything that happens along the way.
00:19:09.271 --> 00:19:09.871
Out everything that happens along the way. let's just trust him.
00:19:09.938 --> 00:19:11.240
Along the way. let's just trust him. i have a good friend that is a
00:19:11.306 --> 00:19:12.941
Let's just trust him. i have a good friend that is a minister. he and his team had
00:19:13.008 --> 00:19:15.377
I have a good friend that is a minister. he and his team had this big outdoor event planned
00:19:15.444 --> 00:19:17.246
Minister. he and his team had this big outdoor event planned in another country.
00:19:17.312 --> 00:19:18.780
This big outdoor event planned in another country. they had spent over two years
00:19:18.847 --> 00:19:20.182
In another country. they had spent over two years working on it.
00:19:20.249 --> 00:19:21.550
They had spent over two years working on it. they had government officials,
00:19:21.617 --> 00:19:22.985
Working on it. they had government officials, business leaders, pastors, all
00:19:23.051 --> 00:19:24.820
They had government officials, business leaders, pastors, all kinds of organizations involved.
00:19:24.886 --> 00:19:27.522
Business leaders, pastors, all kinds of organizations involved. it was a huge undertaking
00:19:27.589 --> 00:19:29.458
Kinds of organizations involved. it was a huge undertaking costing thousands and thousands
00:19:29.524 --> 00:19:31.059
It was a huge undertaking costing thousands and thousands of dollars.
00:19:31.126 --> 00:19:32.060
Costing thousands and thousands of dollars. it finally came down to the week
00:19:32.127 --> 00:19:33.462
Of dollars. it finally came down to the week of the big event.
00:19:33.528 --> 00:19:34.630
It finally came down to the week of the big event. they had the staging out.
00:19:34.696 --> 00:19:35.864
Of the big event. they had the staging out. the sound system was up.
00:19:35.931 --> 00:19:37.633
They had the staging out. the sound system was up. all the advertising was going
00:19:37.699 --> 00:19:39.801
The sound system was up. all the advertising was going through the airways.
00:19:39.868 --> 00:19:41.270
All the advertising was going through the airways. it was just about to happen when
00:19:41.336 --> 00:19:43.805
Through the airways. it was just about to happen when they got word from the
00:19:43.872 --> 00:19:45.307
It was just about to happen when they got word from the government that because of the
00:19:45.374 --> 00:19:47.276
They got word from the government that because of the swine flu outbreak all public
00:19:47.342 --> 00:19:49.845
Government that because of the swine flu outbreak all public meetings had been indefinitely
00:19:49.911 --> 00:19:51.680
Swine flu outbreak all public meetings had been indefinitely cancelled.
00:19:51.747 --> 00:19:53.148
Meetings had been indefinitely cancelled. my friend was so disappointed.
00:19:53.215 --> 00:19:55.117
Cancelled. my friend was so disappointed. two years of hard work.
00:19:55.183 --> 00:19:57.085
My friend was so disappointed. two years of hard work. it seemed like the biggest waste
00:19:57.152 --> 00:19:58.420
Two years of hard work. it seemed like the biggest waste of time, energy, money.
00:19:58.487 --> 00:20:00.522
It seemed like the biggest waste of time, energy, money. he and his team got on the plane
00:20:00.589 --> 00:20:01.990
Of time, energy, money. he and his team got on the plane and came back home.
00:20:02.057 --> 00:20:02.991
He and his team got on the plane and came back home. that's all they could do.
00:20:03.058 --> 00:20:04.660
And came back home. that's all they could do. but that weekend, right when
00:20:04.726 --> 00:20:07.095
That's all they could do. but that weekend, right when their event was supposed to take
00:20:07.162 --> 00:20:08.563
But that weekend, right when their event was supposed to take place, the military overthrew
00:20:08.630 --> 00:20:10.832
Their event was supposed to take place, the military overthrew the government; a coup.
00:20:10.899 --> 00:20:12.868
Place, the military overthrew the government; a coup. it was total chaos.
00:20:12.934 --> 00:20:14.870
The government; a coup. it was total chaos. people panicked. no law.
00:20:14.936 --> 00:20:17.072
It was total chaos. people panicked. no law. no order.
00:20:17.139 --> 00:20:18.507
People panicked. no law. no order. shooting in the street.
00:20:18.573 --> 00:20:19.841
No order. shooting in the street. all kinds of mayhem.
00:20:19.908 --> 00:20:21.943
Shooting in the street. all kinds of mayhem. if his event had not been
00:20:22.010 --> 00:20:23.545
All kinds of mayhem. if his event had not been cancelled he would have been
00:20:23.612 --> 00:20:24.546
If his event had not been cancelled he would have been right in the middle of it.
00:20:24.613 --> 00:20:26.014
Cancelled he would have been right in the middle of it. no telling what would have
00:20:26.081 --> 00:20:26.915
Right in the middle of it. no telling what would have happened. he said,
00:20:26.982 --> 00:20:28.550
No telling what would have happened. he said, "i know this sounds odd
00:20:28.617 --> 00:20:29.551
Happened. he said, "i know this sounds odd but i thank god for
00:20:29.618 --> 00:20:30.552
"i know this sounds odd but i thank god for the swine flu."
00:20:30.619 --> 00:20:31.553
But i thank god for the swine flu." the scripture says in
00:20:31.620 --> 00:20:32.654
The swine flu." the scripture says in corinthians, "now we see in part
00:20:32.721 --> 00:20:35.957
The scripture says in corinthians, "now we see in part like looking through a glass
00:20:36.024 --> 00:20:38.226
Corinthians, "now we see in part like looking through a glass dimly but one day we will see
00:20:38.293 --> 00:20:40.495
Like looking through a glass dimly but one day we will see clearly face to face."
00:20:40.562 --> 00:20:42.631
Dimly but one day we will see clearly face to face." right now notice you can't see
00:20:42.698 --> 00:20:45.300
Clearly face to face." right now notice you can't see it all clearly.
00:20:45.367 --> 00:20:46.535
Right now notice you can't see it all clearly. you're only looking at it in
00:20:46.601 --> 00:20:47.669
It all clearly. you're only looking at it in part. but one day it will come
00:20:47.736 --> 00:20:50.205
You're only looking at it in part. but one day it will come into focus and you'll look back
00:20:50.272 --> 00:20:52.341
Part. but one day it will come into focus and you'll look back and say, "wow, god!
00:20:52.407 --> 00:20:53.642
Into focus and you'll look back and say, "wow, god! you are amazing!
00:20:53.709 --> 00:20:55.043
And say, "wow, god! you are amazing! you had it all figured out, all
00:20:55.110 --> 00:20:56.912
You are amazing! you had it all figured out, all lined up. you closed the door
00:20:56.978 --> 00:20:59.081
You had it all figured out, all lined up. you closed the door on purpose so your perfect will
00:20:59.147 --> 00:21:01.416
Lined up. you closed the door on purpose so your perfect will would be done."
00:21:01.483 --> 00:21:02.918
On purpose so your perfect will would be done." that's what happened to this one
00:21:02.984 --> 00:21:04.486
Would be done." that's what happened to this one young man. he's a straight a
00:21:04.553 --> 00:21:06.388
That's what happened to this one young man. he's a straight a student in high school.
00:21:06.455 --> 00:21:08.423
Young man. he's a straight a student in high school. he loves to study.
00:21:08.490 --> 00:21:09.958
Student in high school. he loves to study. academically, he's in the top 5%
00:21:10.025 --> 00:21:12.094
He loves to study. academically, he's in the top 5% of the nation.
00:21:12.160 --> 00:21:13.628
Academically, he's in the top 5% of the nation. his dream was to become an
00:21:13.695 --> 00:21:15.430
Of the nation. his dream was to become an engineer. it's always what he
00:21:15.497 --> 00:21:17.432
His dream was to become an engineer. it's always what he wanted to do.
00:21:17.499 --> 00:21:18.700
Engineer. it's always what he wanted to do. he applied to about a dozen or
00:21:18.767 --> 00:21:20.702
Wanted to do. he applied to about a dozen or so of the best engineering
00:21:20.769 --> 00:21:22.504
He applied to about a dozen or so of the best engineering schools in the nation but he got
00:21:22.571 --> 00:21:24.906
So of the best engineering schools in the nation but he got turned down again and again.
00:21:24.973 --> 00:21:27.709
Schools in the nation but he got turned down again and again. it didn't make sense.
00:21:27.776 --> 00:21:29.311
Turned down again and again. it didn't make sense. some of his friends were being
00:21:29.378 --> 00:21:30.912
It didn't make sense. some of his friends were being accepted that didn't have as
00:21:30.979 --> 00:21:32.614
Some of his friends were being accepted that didn't have as good of grades as he did.
00:21:32.681 --> 00:21:34.349
Accepted that didn't have as good of grades as he did. he didn't understand it.
00:21:34.416 --> 00:21:36.017
Good of grades as he did. he didn't understand it. while he was waiting to hear
00:21:36.084 --> 00:21:37.819
He didn't understand it. while he was waiting to hear back from other schools he went
00:21:37.886 --> 00:21:39.621
While he was waiting to hear back from other schools he went on a missions trip with a group
00:21:39.688 --> 00:21:41.189
Back from other schools he went on a missions trip with a group of doctors from his church.
00:21:41.256 --> 00:21:43.325
On a missions trip with a group of doctors from his church. he was there to just run errands
00:21:43.392 --> 00:21:45.193
Of doctors from his church. he was there to just run errands and to help out.
00:21:45.260 --> 00:21:46.027
He was there to just run errands and to help out. they were in a very poor nation.
00:21:46.094 --> 00:21:47.996
And to help out. they were in a very poor nation. when he saw the doctors taking
00:21:48.063 --> 00:21:50.432
They were in a very poor nation. when he saw the doctors taking care of the people, treating
00:21:50.499 --> 00:21:52.267
When he saw the doctors taking care of the people, treating their diseases, helping them get
00:21:52.334 --> 00:21:54.236
Care of the people, treating their diseases, helping them get better, something new was
00:21:54.302 --> 00:21:56.304
Their diseases, helping them get better, something new was birthed on the inside.
00:21:56.371 --> 00:21:58.106
Better, something new was birthed on the inside. he thought,
00:21:58.173 --> 00:21:58.974
Birthed on the inside. he thought, "i don't want to be an
00:21:59.040 --> 00:22:00.108
He thought, "i don't want to be an engineer. this is what i want
00:22:00.175 --> 00:22:02.110
"i don't want to be an engineer. this is what i want to do with my life.
00:22:02.177 --> 00:22:03.345
Engineer. this is what i want to do with my life. i want to become a doctor and
00:22:03.412 --> 00:22:05.213
To do with my life. i want to become a doctor and help to take care of people."
00:22:05.280 --> 00:22:07.215
I want to become a doctor and help to take care of people." he went back home and he applied
00:22:07.282 --> 00:22:09.384
Help to take care of people." he went back home and he applied to medical school and he was
00:22:09.451 --> 00:22:10.919
He went back home and he applied to medical school and he was immediately accepted.
00:22:10.986 --> 00:22:12.854
To medical school and he was immediately accepted. in fact, he had several schools
00:22:12.921 --> 00:22:14.723
Immediately accepted. in fact, he had several schools to choose from.
00:22:14.790 --> 00:22:16.191
In fact, he had several schools to choose from. what's interesting is the first
00:22:16.258 --> 00:22:18.193
To choose from. what's interesting is the first engineering school he applied to
00:22:18.260 --> 00:22:20.228
What's interesting is the first engineering school he applied to then sent him a letter of
00:22:20.295 --> 00:22:22.030
Engineering school he applied to then sent him a letter of acceptance.
00:22:22.097 --> 00:22:23.632
Then sent him a letter of acceptance. if he would have received that
00:22:23.698 --> 00:22:25.000
Acceptance. if he would have received that letter months earlier he would
00:22:25.066 --> 00:22:26.735
If he would have received that letter months earlier he would have never gone on the missions
00:22:26.802 --> 00:22:28.136
Letter months earlier he would have never gone on the missions trip, never been open to that
00:22:28.203 --> 00:22:29.871
Have never gone on the missions trip, never been open to that call to go into medicine.
00:22:29.938 --> 00:22:31.840
Trip, never been open to that call to go into medicine. god closed the doors on purpose
00:22:31.907 --> 00:22:34.709
Call to go into medicine. god closed the doors on purpose to the engineering school to
00:22:34.776 --> 00:22:36.511
God closed the doors on purpose to the engineering school to push him into his divine
00:22:36.578 --> 00:22:38.480
To the engineering school to push him into his divine destiny. what am i saying?
00:22:38.547 --> 00:22:40.715
Push him into his divine destiny. what am i saying? don't fight your closed doors.
00:22:40.782 --> 00:22:42.751
Destiny. what am i saying? don't fight your closed doors. god knows what he is doing.
00:22:42.818 --> 00:22:45.120
Don't fight your closed doors. god knows what he is doing. he can see the big picture for
00:22:45.187 --> 00:22:47.189
God knows what he is doing. he can see the big picture for your life.
00:22:47.255 --> 00:22:47.923
He can see the big picture for your life. some of you are discouraged
00:22:47.989 --> 00:22:49.758
Your life. some of you are discouraged because your plans have not
00:22:49.825 --> 00:22:50.992
Some of you are discouraged because your plans have not worked out.
00:22:51.059 --> 00:22:52.093
Because your plans have not worked out. those closed doors were not an
00:22:52.160 --> 00:22:53.762
Worked out. those closed doors were not an accident.
00:22:53.829 --> 00:22:54.863
Those closed doors were not an accident. that was god directing your
00:22:54.930 --> 00:22:56.231
Accident. that was god directing your steps. the reason god closed
00:22:56.298 --> 00:22:58.333
That was god directing your steps. the reason god closed them is because he has
00:22:58.400 --> 00:23:00.402
Steps. the reason god closed them is because he has something better in store.
00:23:00.469 --> 00:23:02.270
Them is because he has something better in store. will you trust him?
00:23:02.337 --> 00:23:03.238
Something better in store. will you trust him? it may not make sense now but
00:23:03.305 --> 00:23:05.073
Will you trust him? it may not make sense now but one day it will make sense.
00:23:05.140 --> 00:23:06.975
It may not make sense now but one day it will make sense. remember, you're not really
00:23:07.042 --> 00:23:09.144
One day it will make sense. remember, you're not really trusting if you're only going to
00:23:09.211 --> 00:23:11.313
Remember, you're not really trusting if you're only going to be happy if it happens your way.
00:23:11.379 --> 00:23:13.949
Trusting if you're only going to be happy if it happens your way. put it on the altar.
00:23:14.015 --> 00:23:15.350
Be happy if it happens your way. put it on the altar. "god, this is what i want but
00:23:15.417 --> 00:23:16.952
Put it on the altar. "god, this is what i want but not my will.
00:23:17.018 --> 00:23:18.220
"god, this is what i want but not my will. let your will be done."
00:23:18.286 --> 00:23:19.988
Not my will. let your will be done." if you'll have this perspective
00:23:20.055 --> 00:23:21.923
Let your will be done." if you'll have this perspective and not only thank god for your
00:23:21.990 --> 00:23:23.525
If you'll have this perspective and not only thank god for your open doors but thank him just as
00:23:23.592 --> 00:23:25.760
And not only thank god for your open doors but thank him just as much for your closed doors, then
00:23:25.827 --> 00:23:27.629
Open doors but thank him just as much for your closed doors, then like abraham, you'll pass the
00:23:27.696 --> 00:23:29.364
Much for your closed doors, then like abraham, you'll pass the test. i believe and declare you
00:23:29.431 --> 00:23:31.867
Like abraham, you'll pass the test. i believe and declare you will see the exceedingly,
00:23:31.933 --> 00:23:34.035
Test. i believe and declare you will see the exceedingly, abundantly above and beyond
00:23:34.102 --> 00:23:35.904
Will see the exceedingly, abundantly above and beyond future that god has in store.
00:23:35.971 --> 00:23:38.073
Abundantly above and beyond future that god has in store. in jesus' name.
00:23:38.139 --> 00:23:39.374
Future that god has in store. in jesus' name. do you receive it today?
00:23:39.441 --> 00:23:40.876
In jesus' name. do you receive it today? (cheering/applause)
00:23:40.942 --> 00:23:42.911
Do you receive it today? (cheering/applause) we never like to close our
00:23:42.978 --> 00:23:43.912
(cheering/applause) we never like to close our broadcast without giving
00:23:43.979 --> 00:23:45.146
We never like to close our broadcast without giving you an opportunity to make
00:23:45.213 --> 00:23:46.515
Broadcast without giving you an opportunity to make jesus the lord of your life.
00:23:46.581 --> 00:23:48.350
You an opportunity to make jesus the lord of your life. would you pray with me?
00:23:48.416 --> 00:23:49.751
Jesus the lord of your life. would you pray with me? just say, "lord jesus, i repent
00:23:49.818 --> 00:23:52.654
Would you pray with me? just say, "lord jesus, i repent of my sins. come in to my
00:23:52.721 --> 00:23:55.657
Just say, "lord jesus, i repent of my sins. come in to my heart. i make you my
00:23:55.724 --> 00:23:57.759
Of my sins. come in to my heart. i make you my lord and savior."
00:23:57.826 --> 00:23:59.628
Heart. i make you my lord and savior." friends, if you prayed that
00:23:59.694 --> 00:24:01.229
Lord and savior." friends, if you prayed that simple prayer we believe you got
00:24:01.296 --> 00:24:02.797
Friends, if you prayed that simple prayer we believe you got born again.
00:24:02.864 --> 00:24:03.665
Simple prayer we believe you got born again. get in a good bible-based
00:24:03.732 --> 00:24:05.100
Born again. get in a good bible-based church. keep god first place.
00:24:05.166 --> 00:24:06.668
Get in a good bible-based church. keep god first place. he is going to take you places
00:24:06.735 --> 00:24:08.270
Church. keep god first place. he is going to take you places that you've never dreamed of.
00:24:08.336 --> 00:24:09.237
It's a new year.
00:24:09.804 --> 00:24:10.972
It's a new year. time to see the impossible
00:24:11.039 --> 00:24:12.674
Time to see the impossible become possible.
00:24:12.741 --> 00:24:14.075
Become possible. it's a new year.
00:24:14.142 --> 00:24:15.243
It's a new year. life's setbacks are about
00:24:15.310 --> 00:24:16.945
Life's setbacks are about to become god's setups
00:24:17.012 --> 00:24:18.513
To become god's setups for new opportunity.
00:24:18.580 --> 00:24:20.015
For new opportunity. it's a new year.
00:24:20.081 --> 00:24:21.383
It's a new year. cherished dreams
00:24:21.449 --> 00:24:22.517
Cherished dreams will become unexpected reality.
00:24:22.584 --> 00:24:25.387
Will become unexpected reality. the start of the new year
00:24:25.453 --> 00:24:26.621
The start of the new year is the perfect time
00:24:26.688 --> 00:24:27.656
Is the perfect time to reset your focus,
00:24:27.722 --> 00:24:29.124
To reset your focus, release disappointments
00:24:29.190 --> 00:24:30.358
Release disappointments of the past,
00:24:30.425 --> 00:24:31.226
Of the past, and get ready for
00:24:31.293 --> 00:24:32.027
And get ready for the new things
00:24:32.093 --> 00:24:32.827
The new things god has in store.
00:24:32.894 --> 00:24:34.462
Every january,
00:24:34.563 --> 00:24:35.497
Every january, we create
00:24:35.564 --> 00:24:36.097
We create a new 365-day
00:24:36.164 --> 00:24:38.266
A new 365-day devotional calendar.
00:24:38.333 --> 00:24:40.135
Devotional calendar. i'd love to send it to you.
00:24:40.201 --> 00:24:41.603
I'd love to send it to you. each day is filled
00:24:41.670 --> 00:24:42.537
Each day is filled with inspiration,
00:24:42.604 --> 00:24:43.538
With inspiration, scripture, and uplifting
00:24:43.605 --> 00:24:45.173
Scripture, and uplifting declarations
00:24:45.240 --> 00:24:45.974
Declarations to fuel your faith.
00:24:46.041 --> 00:24:47.475
To fuel your faith. when you begin the day thanking
00:24:47.542 --> 00:24:48.977
When you begin the day thanking god for what he's done,
00:24:49.044 --> 00:24:50.378
God for what he's done, speaking victory
00:24:50.445 --> 00:24:51.413
Speaking victory over your future,
00:24:51.479 --> 00:24:52.814
Over your future, you're positioning yourself
00:24:52.881 --> 00:24:54.316
You're positioning yourself for a blessed,
00:24:54.382 --> 00:24:55.216
For a blessed, favor-filled year.
00:24:55.283 --> 00:24:56.885
Favor-filled year. amazing things happen
00:24:56.952 --> 00:24:58.186
Amazing things happen when you keep god first place.
00:24:58.286 --> 00:25:00.622
When you keep god first place. as our way of saying thank you
00:25:00.722 --> 00:25:02.357
As our way of saying thank you for your gift of any amount
00:25:02.424 --> 00:25:03.892
For your gift of any amount this first month of the year,
00:25:03.959 --> 00:25:05.527
This first month of the year, we would like to send you
00:25:05.594 --> 00:25:06.795
A copy
00:25:06.895 --> 00:25:07.295
Aof our brand new 365-day, 2026
00:25:07.395 --> 00:25:11.333
Aof our brand new 365-day, 2026 devotional calendar.
00:25:11.399 --> 00:25:12.834
Devotional calendar. do you want to overcome
00:25:12.901 --> 00:25:14.235
Do you want to overcome your most pressing
00:25:14.302 --> 00:25:15.136
Your most pressing challenges in 2026?
00:25:15.203 --> 00:25:17.205
Challenges in 2026? do you want to see your life
00:25:17.272 --> 00:25:18.640
Do you want to see your life take off in new directions
00:25:18.707 --> 00:25:20.342
Take off in new directions of influence,
00:25:20.408 --> 00:25:21.309
Of influence, favor and provision
00:25:21.376 --> 00:25:22.811
Favor and provision in the year ahead?
00:25:22.877 --> 00:25:24.212
In the year ahead? with this daily encouragement,
00:25:24.312 --> 00:25:26.147
With this daily encouragement, you'll not only smile
00:25:26.214 --> 00:25:27.549
You'll not only smile at your day,
00:25:27.616 --> 00:25:28.416
At your day, you'll be reminded
00:25:28.483 --> 00:25:29.484
You'll be reminded that god is smiling
00:25:29.551 --> 00:25:30.819
That god is smiling on your entire life.
00:25:30.885 --> 00:25:32.587
On your entire life. each day
00:25:32.654 --> 00:25:33.388
Each day will be a fresh new day.
00:25:33.455 --> 00:25:35.023
Will be a fresh new day. turn discouragement
00:25:35.090 --> 00:25:36.658
Turn discouragement to encouragement.
00:25:36.725 --> 00:25:38.126
To encouragement. frustration to fulfillment.
00:25:38.193 --> 00:25:40.428
Frustration to fulfillment. anxiety to overcoming.
00:25:40.495 --> 00:25:42.897
Anxiety to overcoming. using this devotional calendar
00:25:42.998 --> 00:25:44.866
Using this devotional calendar is as easy as one, two, three.
00:25:44.966 --> 00:25:48.203
Is as easy as one, two, three. one: wake up with an expectancy
00:25:48.269 --> 00:25:51.006
One: wake up with an expectancy in your heart.
00:25:51.072 --> 00:25:52.307
In your heart. two: reflect
00:25:52.374 --> 00:25:53.508
Two: reflect on the daily scripture verse
00:25:53.575 --> 00:25:54.976
On the daily scripture verse and devotional from joel.
00:25:55.043 --> 00:25:56.878
And devotional from joel. three:
00:25:56.945 --> 00:25:57.646
Three: capture the lord's
00:25:57.712 --> 00:25:58.713
Capture the lord's promises to you
00:25:58.780 --> 00:25:59.948
Promises to you on journaling lines
00:26:00.015 --> 00:26:01.182
On journaling lines for writing and reflection.
00:26:01.249 --> 00:26:03.418
For writing and reflection. 2026 is going to be
00:26:03.485 --> 00:26:05.120
2026 is going to be one of your best years ever.
00:26:05.186 --> 00:26:07.088
One of your best years ever. we're going to help you
00:26:07.155 --> 00:26:07.756
We're going to help you stay in faith
00:26:07.822 --> 00:26:08.657
So you can see
00:26:08.757 --> 00:26:09.391
The goodness of god
00:26:09.491 --> 00:26:10.759
The goodness of god in new ways.
00:26:10.825 --> 00:26:12.227
In new ways. victoria and i pray for
00:26:12.293 --> 00:26:13.294
Victoria and i pray for you and your family every day
00:26:13.361 --> 00:26:14.996
You and your family every day and we want to
00:26:15.063 --> 00:26:15.697
And we want to thank you for your prayer
00:26:15.764 --> 00:26:16.865
Thank you for your prayer and support.
00:26:16.931 --> 00:26:17.932
And support. your generosity is impacting
00:26:17.999 --> 00:26:19.801
Your generosity is impacting lives around the world.
00:26:19.868 --> 00:26:21.536
Lives around the world. a special
00:26:21.603 --> 00:26:22.037
A special thank you to our champion
00:26:22.103 --> 00:26:23.204
Thank you to our champion of hope partners
00:26:23.271 --> 00:26:24.105
Of hope partners for your monthly gifts.
00:26:24.172 --> 00:26:25.607
For your monthly gifts. if you're not a partner,
00:26:25.674 --> 00:26:26.474
If you're not a partner, i hope you'll consider
00:26:26.541 --> 00:26:27.342
I hope you'll consider becoming one.
00:26:27.409 --> 00:26:28.643
Becoming one. remember,
00:26:28.710 --> 00:26:29.144
Remember, you can watch the services
00:26:29.210 --> 00:26:30.412
You can watch the services online live
00:26:30.478 --> 00:26:31.746
Online live every sunday morning.
00:26:31.813 --> 00:26:33.281
Every sunday morning. download our daily podcast,
00:26:33.348 --> 00:26:35.216
Download our daily podcast, watch on youtube
00:26:35.283 --> 00:26:36.551
Watch on youtube or the new joel osteen network
00:26:36.651 --> 00:26:38.319
Or the new joel osteen network 24 hours a day.
00:26:38.386 --> 00:26:40.055
24 hours a day. of course,
00:26:40.121 --> 00:26:40.422
Of course, listen live on sirius
00:26:40.488 --> 00:26:41.556
Listen live on sirius xm as well.
00:26:41.623 --> 00:26:42.957
Xm as well. but until we meet again,
00:26:43.024 --> 00:26:44.459
But until we meet again, may the lord bless
00:26:44.526 --> 00:26:45.393
May the lord bless you and keep you.
00:26:45.460 --> 00:26:47.228
You and keep you. request your copy of the 2026
00:26:47.295 --> 00:26:49.664
Request your copy of the 2026 devotional calendar today
00:26:49.731 --> 00:26:51.466
Devotional calendar today with your gift of any amount.
00:26:51.533 --> 00:26:53.535
With your gift of any amount. also, no matter what season
00:26:53.601 --> 00:26:55.437
Also, no matter what season you're in,
00:26:55.503 --> 00:26:56.171
You're in, god wants to speak into each
00:26:56.237 --> 00:26:58.206
God wants to speak into each and every moment.
00:26:58.273 --> 00:26:59.574
And every moment. god's word for
00:26:59.641 --> 00:27:00.642
God's word for every season is a guided
00:27:00.709 --> 00:27:02.343
Every season is a guided journal series
00:27:02.410 --> 00:27:03.344
Journal series designed to help you slow down,
00:27:03.411 --> 00:27:05.413
Designed to help you slow down, write out
00:27:05.480 --> 00:27:05.980
Write out scripture, and reflect
00:27:06.047 --> 00:27:07.482
Scripture, and reflect on its truth,
00:27:07.549 --> 00:27:08.383
On its truth, one verse at a time.
00:27:08.450 --> 00:27:10.185
One verse at a time. as you engage with his word,
00:27:10.251 --> 00:27:12.087
As you engage with his word, you'll discover fresh strength,
00:27:12.153 --> 00:27:14.055
You'll discover fresh strength, deeper peace,
00:27:14.122 --> 00:27:15.090
Deeper peace, and timely encouragement
00:27:15.156 --> 00:27:16.624
And timely encouragement for every step of your journey.
00:27:16.691 --> 00:27:18.827
For every step of your journey. you can request these
00:27:18.893 --> 00:27:19.928
You can request these inspiring resources
00:27:19.994 --> 00:27:21.429
Inspiring resources by calling 888-567-joel
00:27:21.496 --> 00:27:24.733
By calling 888-567-joel or logging on to
00:27:24.799 --> 00:27:25.800
Or logging on to joelosteen.com today.
00:27:25.867 --> 00:27:28.103

Joel Osteen - The God Who Closes Doors

January 24, 2026 | 27:29

Closed captions

Share