Joel Osteen

Joel Osteen - It's Only A Test

April 4, 2026 | 27:29

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

#Testing #Peace #Trials-HardTimes #Sow #Seed #Obedience #Reap #Flesh #Character #Spirit #SpiritualGrowth #JoelOsteen

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Joel Osteen | Joel Osteen - It's Only A Test | April 4, 2026

(applause)
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(applause) well, god bless you.
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(applause) well, god bless you. it's always a joy to come into
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Well, god bless you. it's always a joy to come into your homes.
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It's always a joy to come into your homes. we love you.
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Your homes. we love you. if you're ever in our area
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We love you. if you're ever in our area please stop by and be a part of
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If you're ever in our area please stop by and be a part of one of our services.
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Please stop by and be a part of one of our services. i promise you we'll make you
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One of our services. i promise you we'll make you feel right at home.
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I promise you we'll make you feel right at home. but thanks so much for tuning
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Feel right at home. but thanks so much for tuning in.
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But thanks so much for tuning in. thank you again for coming out
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In. thank you again for coming out today.
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Thank you again for coming out today. i like to start with something
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Today. i like to start with something funny each week.
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I like to start with something funny each week. this is just a joke.
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Funny each week. this is just a joke. please don't be offended.
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This is just a joke. please don't be offended. (laughter)
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Please don't be offended. (laughter) i heard about this blonde lady.
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(laughter) i heard about this blonde lady. (laughter)
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I heard about this blonde lady. (laughter) that's what gets me into
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(laughter) that's what gets me into trouble.
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That's what gets me into trouble. but this blonde lady was
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Trouble. but this blonde lady was speeding down the freeway when
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But this blonde lady was speeding down the freeway when she was pulled over by a female
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Speeding down the freeway when she was pulled over by a female police officer who also happened
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She was pulled over by a female police officer who also happened to be blonde.
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Police officer who also happened to be blonde. the officer asked to see her
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To be blonde. the officer asked to see her driver's license.
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The officer asked to see her driver's license. the lady dug and dug through her
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Driver's license. the lady dug and dug through her purse getting more and more
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The lady dug and dug through her purse getting more and more agitated.
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Purse getting more and more agitated. finally said to the officer,
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Agitated. finally said to the officer, "what does it look like?"
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Finally said to the officer, "what does it look like?" the officer said, "it's just a
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"what does it look like?" the officer said, "it's just a little square that's got your
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The officer said, "it's just a little square that's got your picture on it."
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Little square that's got your picture on it." the lady found a mirror in her
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Picture on it." the lady found a mirror in her purse and saw herself in it and
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The lady found a mirror in her purse and saw herself in it and said, "oh!" and handed it to
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Purse and saw herself in it and said, "oh!" and handed it to the officer.
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Said, "oh!" and handed it to the officer. the officer looked at the mirror
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The officer. the officer looked at the mirror and saw herself and handed it
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The officer looked at the mirror and saw herself and handed it back and said, "you can go.
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And saw herself and handed it back and said, "you can go. i didn't realize you were a
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Back and said, "you can go. i didn't realize you were a police officer."
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I didn't realize you were a police officer." (laughter/applause)
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Police officer." (laughter/applause) hold up your bible.
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(laughter/applause) hold up your bible. i'm going to need a ride home
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Hold up your bible. i'm going to need a ride home today. (laughter)
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I'm going to need a ride home today. (laughter) say it like you mean it.
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Today. (laughter) say it like you mean it. this is my bible.
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Say it like you mean it. this is my bible. i am what it says i am.
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This is my bible. i am what it says i am. i have what it says i have.
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I am what it says i am. i have what it says i have. i can do what it says i can do.
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I have what it says i have. i can do what it says i can do. today i will be taught the word
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I can do what it says i can do. today i will be taught the word of god.
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Today i will be taught the word of god. i boldly confess:
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Of god. i boldly confess: my mind is alert.
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I boldly confess: my mind is alert. my heart is receptive.
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My mind is alert. my heart is receptive. i will never be the same.
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My heart is receptive. i will never be the same. in jesus' name.
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I will never be the same. in jesus' name. god bless you.
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In jesus' name. god bless you. i want to talk to you today
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God bless you. i want to talk to you today about it's only a test.
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I want to talk to you today about it's only a test. we all face situations that are
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About it's only a test. we all face situations that are uncomfortable.
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We all face situations that are uncomfortable. we're not getting our way.
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Uncomfortable. we're not getting our way. we're dealing with a person
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We're not getting our way. we're dealing with a person that's hard to get along with.
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We're dealing with a person that's hard to get along with. we get caught by the train
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That's hard to get along with. we get caught by the train driving to work.
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We get caught by the train driving to work. missed the morning appointment.
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Driving to work. missed the morning appointment. as much as we don't like it, god
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Missed the morning appointment. as much as we don't like it, god allows uncomfortable situations.
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As much as we don't like it, god allows uncomfortable situations. when we're put under pressure it
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Allows uncomfortable situations. when we're put under pressure it shows what we're made of.
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When we're put under pressure it shows what we're made of. these tests bring to light
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Shows what we're made of. these tests bring to light impurities in our character that
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These tests bring to light impurities in our character that we need to deal with.
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Impurities in our character that we need to deal with. peter said to jesus, "i'll
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We need to deal with. peter said to jesus, "i'll never deny you. i'm your best
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Peter said to jesus, "i'll never deny you. i'm your best friend. i'll be loyal to the
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Never deny you. i'm your best friend. i'll be loyal to the very end."
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Friend. i'll be loyal to the very end." peter's heart was right.
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Very end." peter's heart was right. he had good intentions but when
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Peter's heart was right. he had good intentions but when he was put under pressure it was
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He had good intentions but when he was put under pressure it was a different story.
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He was put under pressure it was a different story. he denied three times that he
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A different story. he denied three times that he knew christ.
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He denied three times that he knew christ. it's not that god just wants us
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Knew christ. it's not that god just wants us to be uncomfortable.
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It's not that god just wants us to be uncomfortable. these tests are beneficial.
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To be uncomfortable. these tests are beneficial. they show us weaknesses in our
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These tests are beneficial. they show us weaknesses in our character.
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They show us weaknesses in our character. like peter, areas that are
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Character. like peter, areas that are keeping us from being our best.
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Like peter, areas that are keeping us from being our best. and if we'll be willing to make
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Keeping us from being our best. and if we'll be willing to make adjustments, improvements, let
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And if we'll be willing to make adjustments, improvements, let god refine us, then we'll pass
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Adjustments, improvements, let god refine us, then we'll pass the tests.
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God refine us, then we'll pass the tests. that's when promotion comes.
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The tests. that's when promotion comes. the scripture says in first
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That's when promotion comes. the scripture says in first peter, "don't be amazed at the
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The scripture says in first peter, "don't be amazed at the fiery ordeal that is taking
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Peter, "don't be amazed at the fiery ordeal that is taking place to test your quality."
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Fiery ordeal that is taking place to test your quality." notice the purpose of the trial
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Place to test your quality." notice the purpose of the trial is to test your character.
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Notice the purpose of the trial is to test your character. every traffic jam, every person
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Is to test your character. every traffic jam, every person that irritates you, every time
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Every traffic jam, every person that irritates you, every time you're tempted to worry, to be
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That irritates you, every time you're tempted to worry, to be critical, to be jealous, to get
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You're tempted to worry, to be critical, to be jealous, to get discouraged, those are not just
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Critical, to be jealous, to get discouraged, those are not just random trials.
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Discouraged, those are not just random trials. that is god testing your
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Random trials. that is god testing your quality.
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That is god testing your quality. it's an opportunity for you to
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Quality. it's an opportunity for you to grow.
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It's an opportunity for you to grow. in the difficult times we show
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Grow. in the difficult times we show god what we're made of.
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In the difficult times we show god what we're made of. many people get stuck at the
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God what we're made of. many people get stuck at the same level because they're not
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Many people get stuck at the same level because they're not dealing with what god brings to
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Same level because they're not dealing with what god brings to light.
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Dealing with what god brings to light. light.
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Light. light. the next time you get caught in
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Light. the next time you get caught in traffic, instead of fighting
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The next time you get caught in traffic, instead of fighting against it, being all upset, try
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Traffic, instead of fighting against it, being all upset, try a different approach.
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Against it, being all upset, try a different approach. say, "i realize this is only a
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A different approach. say, "i realize this is only a test. this is an opportunity
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Say, "i realize this is only a test. this is an opportunity for me to come up higher.
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Test. this is an opportunity for me to come up higher. i'm going to keep my peace and
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For me to come up higher. i'm going to keep my peace and just go with the flow."
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I'm going to keep my peace and just go with the flow." that's passing the test.
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Just go with the flow." that's passing the test. when you go through a
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That's passing the test. when you go through a disappointment, something unfair
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When you go through a disappointment, something unfair happens, instead of being
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Disappointment, something unfair happens, instead of being discouraged, living in
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Happens, instead of being discouraged, living in self-pity, "no, i realize this
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Discouraged, living in self-pity, "no, i realize this is only a test. i'm going to
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Self-pity, "no, i realize this is only a test. i'm going to keep my joy. god is still on
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Is only a test. i'm going to keep my joy. god is still on the throne. he's got something
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Keep my joy. god is still on the throne. he's got something amazing in my future."
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The throne. he's got something amazing in my future." that's passing the test.
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Amazing in my future." that's passing the test. that's how god refines us.
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That's passing the test. that's how god refines us. but so often we try to pray
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That's how god refines us. but so often we try to pray away what god wants to use.
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But so often we try to pray away what god wants to use. "god i shouldn't have to put up
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Away what god wants to use. "god i shouldn't have to put up with this grouchy boss.
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"god i shouldn't have to put up with this grouchy boss. he's getting on my nerves.
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With this grouchy boss. he's getting on my nerves. he irritates me."
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He's getting on my nerves. he irritates me." have you ever thought god may
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He irritates me." have you ever thought god may have you there on purpose to do
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Have you ever thought god may have you there on purpose to do a work in you, to test your
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Have you there on purpose to do a work in you, to test your quality?
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A work in you, to test your quality? you may not like it but that
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Quality? you may not like it but that boss is an opportunity for you
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You may not like it but that boss is an opportunity for you to grow.
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Boss is an opportunity for you to grow. that boss is like sandpaper that
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To grow. that boss is like sandpaper that can rub the rough edges off of
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That boss is like sandpaper that can rub the rough edges off of you.
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Can rub the rough edges off of you. god uses the people in our life,
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You. god uses the people in our life, our spouse, our children, our
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God uses the people in our life, our spouse, our children, our friends, to show us areas we
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Our spouse, our children, our friends, to show us areas we need to improve in.
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Friends, to show us areas we need to improve in. we pray, "god, you have got to
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Need to improve in. we pray, "god, you have got to change these children.
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We pray, "god, you have got to change these children. they're about to drive me
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Change these children. they're about to drive me crazy."
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They're about to drive me crazy." no, the key is to look inside
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Crazy." no, the key is to look inside and say, "god, how can i
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No, the key is to look inside and say, "god, how can i change?"
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And say, "god, how can i change?" can i learn to be more patient,
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Change?" can i learn to be more patient, more understanding, more
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Can i learn to be more patient, more understanding, more forgiving?
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More understanding, more forgiving? don't ever ask god to change
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Forgiving? don't ever ask god to change somebody else without first
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Don't ever ask god to change somebody else without first asking god to change you.
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Somebody else without first asking god to change you. "well, joel. my spouse knows
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Asking god to change you. "well, joel. my spouse knows how to push just the right
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"well, joel. my spouse knows how to push just the right buttons. he aggravates me.
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How to push just the right buttons. he aggravates me. she gets me so upset."
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Buttons. he aggravates me. she gets me so upset." that may be true but it's only a
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She gets me so upset." that may be true but it's only a test.
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That may be true but it's only a test. if you'll start ruling over your
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Test. if you'll start ruling over your emotions, exercising
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If you'll start ruling over your emotions, exercising self-control, before long those
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Emotions, exercising self-control, before long those buttons won't work anymore.
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Self-control, before long those buttons won't work anymore. they can push all they want.
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Buttons won't work anymore. they can push all they want. it doesn't affect you.
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They can push all they want. it doesn't affect you. they didn't change but you've
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It doesn't affect you. they didn't change but you've changed.
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They didn't change but you've changed. you let god refine you.
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Changed. you let god refine you. what happened?
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You let god refine you. what happened? your quality came up higher.
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What happened? your quality came up higher. every time you overlook an
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Your quality came up higher. every time you overlook an offense you're passing the test.
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Every time you overlook an offense you're passing the test. every time you bite your tongue
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Offense you're passing the test. every time you bite your tongue when you feel like arguing
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Every time you bite your tongue when you feel like arguing you're passing the test.
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When you feel like arguing you're passing the test. when you let someone else be
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You're passing the test. when you let someone else be right even though you know
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When you let someone else be right even though you know they're wrong, that's passing
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Right even though you know they're wrong, that's passing the test.
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They're wrong, that's passing the test. when you do that, that's
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The test. when you do that, that's allowing god to make you and
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When you do that, that's allowing god to make you and mold you into who he wants you
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Allowing god to make you and mold you into who he wants you to be.
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Mold you into who he wants you to be. i've learned god is more
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To be. i've learned god is more i've learned god is more
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I've learned god is more i've learned god is more interested in changing me than
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I've learned god is more interested in changing me than he is in changing my
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Interested in changing me than he is in changing my circumstances.
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He is in changing my circumstances. and yes, god will change the
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Circumstances. and yes, god will change the circumstances.
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And yes, god will change the circumstances. god will change other people.
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Circumstances. god will change other people. but you have to look inside and
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God will change other people. but you have to look inside and say, "where can i come up
00:06:14.964 --> 00:06:16.098
But you have to look inside and say, "where can i come up higher?"
00:06:16.165 --> 00:06:18.167
Say, "where can i come up higher?" i know people they're dealing
00:06:18.234 --> 00:06:19.769
Higher?" i know people they're dealing with the same issues year after
00:06:19.836 --> 00:06:21.170
I know people they're dealing with the same issues year after year: arguing with their spouse
00:06:21.237 --> 00:06:23.739
With the same issues year after year: arguing with their spouse over the same petty things,
00:06:23.806 --> 00:06:26.175
Year: arguing with their spouse over the same petty things, getting upset every time they
00:06:26.242 --> 00:06:27.844
Over the same petty things, getting upset every time they don't get their way, stressed
00:06:27.910 --> 00:06:29.378
Getting upset every time they don't get their way, stressed out every time they get caught
00:06:29.445 --> 00:06:30.847
Don't get their way, stressed out every time they get caught in traffic.
00:06:30.913 --> 00:06:34.183
Out every time they get caught in traffic. they wonder, "god, when are you
00:06:34.250 --> 00:06:34.817
In traffic. they wonder, "god, when are you going to change this? when are
00:06:34.884 --> 00:06:36.986
They wonder, "god, when are you going to change this? when are you going to make it better?"
00:06:37.053 --> 00:06:38.120
Going to change this? when are you going to make it better?" no, god is not going to remove
00:06:38.187 --> 00:06:41.057
You going to make it better?" no, god is not going to remove it.
00:06:41.123 --> 00:06:41.858
No, god is not going to remove it. he wants to do a work in you.
00:06:41.924 --> 00:06:42.925
It. he wants to do a work in you. you've got to stay pliable.
00:06:42.992 --> 00:06:44.193
He wants to do a work in you. you've got to stay pliable. you've got to be willing to make
00:06:44.260 --> 00:06:45.228
You've got to stay pliable. you've got to be willing to make adjustments.
00:06:45.294 --> 00:06:47.463
You've got to be willing to make adjustments. sometimes you'll even have to
00:06:47.530 --> 00:06:50.233
Adjustments. sometimes you'll even have to sow a radical seed of obedience.
00:06:50.299 --> 00:06:52.969
Sometimes you'll even have to sow a radical seed of obedience. that means you've got to do the
00:06:53.035 --> 00:06:54.103
Sow a radical seed of obedience. that means you've got to do the right thing when it's hard.
00:06:54.170 --> 00:06:56.205
That means you've got to do the right thing when it's hard. it's hard to be kind to someone
00:06:56.272 --> 00:06:58.341
Right thing when it's hard. it's hard to be kind to someone when they're being rude to you.
00:06:58.407 --> 00:07:01.344
It's hard to be kind to someone when they're being rude to you. it's hard to be happy for them
00:07:01.410 --> 00:07:01.978
When they're being rude to you. it's hard to be happy for them when they got the promotion you
00:07:02.044 --> 00:07:06.482
It's hard to be happy for them when they got the promotion you wanted.
00:07:06.549 --> 00:07:07.250
When they got the promotion you wanted. it's hard to stay in peace when
00:07:07.316 --> 00:07:08.117
Wanted. it's hard to stay in peace when the traffic is slowing down and
00:07:08.184 --> 00:07:09.051
It's hard to stay in peace when the traffic is slowing down and your plane leaves in 30 minutes.
00:07:09.118 --> 00:07:10.786
The traffic is slowing down and your plane leaves in 30 minutes. but when you sow a radical seed
00:07:10.853 --> 00:07:12.355
Your plane leaves in 30 minutes. but when you sow a radical seed of obedience, you do the right
00:07:12.421 --> 00:07:14.257
But when you sow a radical seed of obedience, you do the right thing when it's hard, you will
00:07:14.323 --> 00:07:15.525
Of obedience, you do the right thing when it's hard, you will reap a radical harvest.
00:07:15.591 --> 00:07:19.295
Thing when it's hard, you will reap a radical harvest. reap a radical harvest.
00:07:19.362 --> 00:07:19.996
Reap a radical harvest. reap a radical harvest. any time we're going to go up
00:07:20.062 --> 00:07:21.130
Reap a radical harvest. any time we're going to go up higher, part of our flesh has to
00:07:21.197 --> 00:07:22.331
Any time we're going to go up higher, part of our flesh has to go down lower.
00:07:22.398 --> 00:07:25.101
Higher, part of our flesh has to go down lower. we'll never see our character
00:07:25.167 --> 00:07:26.869
Go down lower. we'll never see our character fully developed if we're getting
00:07:26.936 --> 00:07:27.970
We'll never see our character fully developed if we're getting our way all the time.
00:07:28.037 --> 00:07:29.405
Fully developed if we're getting our way all the time. the next time you find yourself
00:07:29.472 --> 00:07:31.140
Our way all the time. the next time you find yourself in a situation that's
00:07:31.207 --> 00:07:32.408
The next time you find yourself in a situation that's uncomfortable, you don't like
00:07:32.475 --> 00:07:34.410
In a situation that's uncomfortable, you don't like it, instead of fighting against
00:07:34.477 --> 00:07:35.778
Uncomfortable, you don't like it, instead of fighting against it, have the attitude, "i must
00:07:35.845 --> 00:07:37.747
It, instead of fighting against it, have the attitude, "i must need this or i wouldn't be
00:07:37.813 --> 00:07:39.549
It, have the attitude, "i must need this or i wouldn't be here."
00:07:39.615 --> 00:07:41.250
Need this or i wouldn't be here." see it as an opportunity to come
00:07:41.317 --> 00:07:42.552
Here." see it as an opportunity to come up higher.
00:07:42.618 --> 00:07:43.619
See it as an opportunity to come up higher. up higher.
00:07:43.686 --> 00:07:44.253
Up higher. up higher. maybe all of your friends are
00:07:44.320 --> 00:07:45.021
Up higher. maybe all of your friends are getting married.
00:07:45.087 --> 00:07:46.055
Maybe all of your friends are getting married. you're still single.
00:07:46.122 --> 00:07:47.290
Getting married. you're still single. you haven't met anyone.
00:07:47.356 --> 00:07:48.658
You're still single. you haven't met anyone. that's a test.
00:07:48.724 --> 00:07:50.293
You haven't met anyone. that's a test. have the attitude, "no big deal.
00:07:50.359 --> 00:07:52.228
That's a test. have the attitude, "no big deal. i'm not going to live
00:07:52.295 --> 00:07:53.229
Have the attitude, "no big deal. i'm not going to live discouraged. i know god is
00:07:53.296 --> 00:07:54.730
I'm not going to live discouraged. i know god is working behind the scenes and
00:07:54.797 --> 00:07:56.699
Discouraged. i know god is working behind the scenes and at the right time he will bring
00:07:56.766 --> 00:07:58.301
Working behind the scenes and at the right time he will bring the perfect person into my
00:07:58.367 --> 00:07:59.235
At the right time he will bring the perfect person into my life."
00:07:59.302 --> 00:08:00.670
The perfect person into my life." pass that test.
00:08:00.736 --> 00:08:02.104
Life." pass that test. maybe you're standing with a
00:08:02.171 --> 00:08:03.005
Pass that test. maybe you're standing with a group of friends and they start
00:08:03.072 --> 00:08:04.507
Maybe you're standing with a group of friends and they start to talk bad about someone, start
00:08:04.574 --> 00:08:06.576
Group of friends and they start to talk bad about someone, start to gossip.
00:08:06.642 --> 00:08:08.477
To talk bad about someone, start to gossip. understand it's not a
00:08:08.544 --> 00:08:09.579
To gossip. understand it's not a coincidence that you're there.
00:08:09.645 --> 00:08:11.681
Understand it's not a coincidence that you're there. you are there so you can show
00:08:11.747 --> 00:08:12.848
Coincidence that you're there. you are there so you can show god your quality.
00:08:12.915 --> 00:08:15.384
You are there so you can show god your quality. you can prove to him you're
00:08:15.451 --> 00:08:16.786
God your quality. you can prove to him you're going to take the high road and
00:08:16.852 --> 00:08:18.487
You can prove to him you're going to take the high road and not say something that could
00:08:18.554 --> 00:08:19.855
Going to take the high road and not say something that could damage their reputation.
00:08:19.922 --> 00:08:22.291
Not say something that could damage their reputation. maybe the person they're talking
00:08:22.358 --> 00:08:23.793
Damage their reputation. maybe the person they're talking about has done you wrong.
00:08:23.859 --> 00:08:25.761
Maybe the person they're talking about has done you wrong. you know some juicy information.
00:08:25.828 --> 00:08:28.598
About has done you wrong. you know some juicy information. it could really make them look
00:08:28.664 --> 00:08:29.365
You know some juicy information. it could really make them look bad.
00:08:29.432 --> 00:08:31.200
It could really make them look bad. in your mind you could justify
00:08:31.267 --> 00:08:32.368
Bad. in your mind you could justify it.
00:08:32.435 --> 00:08:33.436
In your mind you could justify it. you can think of a thousand
00:08:33.502 --> 00:08:34.503
It. you can think of a thousand reasons why it would be okay.
00:08:34.570 --> 00:08:35.705
You can think of a thousand reasons why it would be okay. no, you've got to recognize that
00:08:35.771 --> 00:08:37.206
Reasons why it would be okay. no, you've got to recognize that is a test.
00:08:37.273 --> 00:08:40.309
No, you've got to recognize that is a test. that's an opportunity for you to
00:08:40.376 --> 00:08:41.577
Is a test. that's an opportunity for you to come up higher.
00:08:41.644 --> 00:08:43.746
That's an opportunity for you to come up higher. if you will bite your tongue,
00:08:43.813 --> 00:08:44.981
Come up higher. if you will bite your tongue, cover the offense, then you've
00:08:45.047 --> 00:08:46.482
If you will bite your tongue, cover the offense, then you've passed the test.
00:08:46.549 --> 00:08:48.651
Cover the offense, then you've passed the test. that's what puts you in position
00:08:48.718 --> 00:08:49.485
Passed the test. that's what puts you in position for promotion.
00:08:49.552 --> 00:08:52.188
That's what puts you in position for promotion. but if you give in, talk bad
00:08:52.254 --> 00:08:54.123
For promotion. but if you give in, talk bad about them, fail the test, the
00:08:54.190 --> 00:08:55.791
But if you give in, talk bad about them, fail the test, the good news is god doesn't write
00:08:55.858 --> 00:08:57.393
About them, fail the test, the good news is god doesn't write us off.
00:08:57.460 --> 00:08:59.395
Good news is god doesn't write us off. he will give you another
00:08:59.462 --> 00:09:00.529
Us off. he will give you another opportunity.
00:09:00.596 --> 00:09:01.897
He will give you another opportunity. you'll get to take the test
00:09:01.964 --> 00:09:02.765
Opportunity. you'll get to take the test again.
00:09:02.832 --> 00:09:04.133
You'll get to take the test again. when you pass that test, not
00:09:04.200 --> 00:09:05.868
Again. when you pass that test, not once, but again and again, every
00:09:05.935 --> 00:09:07.637
When you pass that test, not once, but again and again, every time you do it will get easier.
00:09:07.703 --> 00:09:10.706
Once, but again and again, every time you do it will get easier. that's god refining you.
00:09:10.773 --> 00:09:12.408
Time you do it will get easier. that's god refining you. what happened?
00:09:12.475 --> 00:09:14.443
That's god refining you. what happened? your quality came up higher.
00:09:14.510 --> 00:09:16.479
What happened? your quality came up higher. your quality came up higher.
00:09:16.545 --> 00:09:17.380
Your quality came up higher. your quality came up higher. now some of you are going to be
00:09:17.446 --> 00:09:18.247
Your quality came up higher. now some of you are going to be tested before you get home
00:09:18.314 --> 00:09:19.315
Now some of you are going to be tested before you get home today.
00:09:19.382 --> 00:09:21.684
Tested before you get home today. driving out of the parking lot,
00:09:21.751 --> 00:09:22.852
Today. driving out of the parking lot, the police officer is going to
00:09:22.918 --> 00:09:24.020
Driving out of the parking lot, the police officer is going to let 400 cars go in front of you.
00:09:24.086 --> 00:09:26.122
The police officer is going to let 400 cars go in front of you. (laughter)
00:09:26.188 --> 00:09:28.290
Let 400 cars go in front of you. (laughter) will you keep a good attitude
00:09:28.357 --> 00:09:29.859
(laughter) will you keep a good attitude and remember this is only a
00:09:29.925 --> 00:09:31.293
Will you keep a good attitude and remember this is only a test?
00:09:31.360 --> 00:09:32.928
And remember this is only a test? or will you think, "i don't care
00:09:32.995 --> 00:09:33.963
Test? or will you think, "i don't care what that young minister says.
00:09:34.030 --> 00:09:35.131
Or will you think, "i don't care what that young minister says. i'm honking my horn."
00:09:35.197 --> 00:09:36.399
What that young minister says. i'm honking my horn." (laughter)
00:09:36.465 --> 00:09:38.000
I'm honking my horn." (laughter) you get home and you want to
00:09:38.067 --> 00:09:39.468
(laughter) you get home and you want to watch the ballgame.
00:09:39.535 --> 00:09:40.403
You get home and you want to watch the ballgame. you've been looking forward to
00:09:40.469 --> 00:09:41.103
Watch the ballgame. you've been looking forward to it.
00:09:41.170 --> 00:09:41.937
You've been looking forward to it. the doorbell rings.
00:09:42.004 --> 00:09:42.838
It. the doorbell rings. it's the new family in the
00:09:42.905 --> 00:09:43.939
The doorbell rings. it's the new family in the neighborhood.
00:09:44.006 --> 00:09:45.741
It's the new family in the neighborhood. they stopped by to spend some
00:09:45.808 --> 00:09:47.009
Neighborhood. they stopped by to spend some time getting to know you.
00:09:47.076 --> 00:09:49.211
They stopped by to spend some time getting to know you. that's a test.
00:09:49.278 --> 00:09:50.713
Time getting to know you. that's a test. are you going to be friendly and
00:09:50.780 --> 00:09:51.681
That's a test. are you going to be friendly and invite them in?
00:09:51.747 --> 00:09:53.315
Are you going to be friendly and invite them in? or are you going to tell them,
00:09:53.382 --> 00:09:54.550
Invite them in? or are you going to tell them, "we don't live here. we're just
00:09:54.617 --> 00:09:55.451
Or are you going to tell them, "we don't live here. we're just cleaning the carpets."
00:09:55.518 --> 00:09:56.786
"we don't live here. we're just cleaning the carpets." (laughter)
00:09:56.852 --> 00:09:58.421
Cleaning the carpets." (laughter) pass that test.
00:09:58.487 --> 00:09:59.655
(laughter) pass that test. most of the time, we are tested
00:09:59.722 --> 00:10:01.090
Pass that test. most of the time, we are tested in the area of our greatest
00:10:01.157 --> 00:10:03.592
Most of the time, we are tested in the area of our greatest weakness.
00:10:03.659 --> 00:10:05.161
In the area of our greatest weakness. if you struggle with jealousy,
00:10:05.227 --> 00:10:06.796
Weakness. if you struggle with jealousy, don't be surprised if you see
00:10:06.862 --> 00:10:08.597
If you struggle with jealousy, don't be surprised if you see every person that has more than
00:10:08.664 --> 00:10:09.699
Don't be surprised if you see every person that has more than you.
00:10:09.765 --> 00:10:11.333
Every person that has more than you. your co-worker that makes half
00:10:11.400 --> 00:10:12.301
You. your co-worker that makes half of your income will drive in in
00:10:12.368 --> 00:10:14.336
Your co-worker that makes half of your income will drive in in a brand new car.
00:10:14.403 --> 00:10:16.772
Of your income will drive in in a brand new car. your cousin will call and tell
00:10:16.839 --> 00:10:17.907
A brand new car. your cousin will call and tell how they've just won the
00:10:17.973 --> 00:10:19.241
Your cousin will call and tell how they've just won the lottery.
00:10:19.308 --> 00:10:20.309
How they've just won the lottery. you're going to take your family
00:10:20.376 --> 00:10:21.343
Lottery. you're going to take your family to galveston for a few days just
00:10:21.410 --> 00:10:22.912
You're going to take your family to galveston for a few days just to get away.
00:10:22.978 --> 00:10:24.814
To galveston for a few days just to get away. you're excited until your friend
00:10:24.880 --> 00:10:25.981
To get away. you're excited until your friend tells how she's going to paris
00:10:26.048 --> 00:10:27.416
You're excited until your friend tells how she's going to paris for a couple of weeks with her
00:10:27.483 --> 00:10:28.918
Tells how she's going to paris for a couple of weeks with her whole family. (laughter)
00:10:28.984 --> 00:10:31.420
For a couple of weeks with her whole family. (laughter) god will put you right in the
00:10:31.487 --> 00:10:32.588
Whole family. (laughter) god will put you right in the middle of the fire, so to speak,
00:10:32.655 --> 00:10:35.624
God will put you right in the middle of the fire, so to speak, to see what you're made of, to
00:10:35.691 --> 00:10:37.193
Middle of the fire, so to speak, to see what you're made of, to test your quality.
00:10:37.259 --> 00:10:39.095
To see what you're made of, to test your quality. are you going to keep a good
00:10:39.161 --> 00:10:40.529
Test your quality. are you going to keep a good attitude and be happy for them?
00:10:40.596 --> 00:10:42.298
Are you going to keep a good attitude and be happy for them? or are you going to think, "god,
00:10:42.364 --> 00:10:44.266
Attitude and be happy for them? or are you going to think, "god, it's not fair. i work harder
00:10:44.333 --> 00:10:46.035
Or are you going to think, "god, it's not fair. i work harder than they do, come to church
00:10:46.102 --> 00:10:47.870
It's not fair. i work harder than they do, come to church every sunday. why don't i get
00:10:47.937 --> 00:10:49.171
Than they do, come to church every sunday. why don't i get any of these good breaks?"
00:10:49.238 --> 00:10:51.741
Every sunday. why don't i get any of these good breaks?" that pressure is bringing to
00:10:51.807 --> 00:10:53.375
Any of these good breaks?" that pressure is bringing to light impurities that we need to
00:10:53.442 --> 00:10:55.044
That pressure is bringing to light impurities that we need to deal with.
00:10:55.111 --> 00:10:56.779
Light impurities that we need to deal with. it's not a coincidence the
00:10:56.846 --> 00:10:58.380
Deal with. it's not a coincidence the uncomfortable situations we find
00:10:58.447 --> 00:11:00.616
It's not a coincidence the uncomfortable situations we find ourselves in.
00:11:00.683 --> 00:11:02.518
Uncomfortable situations we find ourselves in. god puts us there on purpose so
00:11:02.585 --> 00:11:04.620
Ourselves in. god puts us there on purpose so we can see the problem and
00:11:04.687 --> 00:11:06.255
God puts us there on purpose so we can see the problem and hopefully deal with it.
00:11:06.322 --> 00:11:08.758
We can see the problem and hopefully deal with it. now pay attention to the areas
00:11:08.824 --> 00:11:10.793
Hopefully deal with it. now pay attention to the areas where you're being tested.
00:11:10.860 --> 00:11:11.927
Now pay attention to the areas where you're being tested. where you're being tested.
00:11:11.994 --> 00:11:12.461
Where you're being tested. where you're being tested. in my life, i've never liked
00:11:12.528 --> 00:11:13.863
Where you're being tested. in my life, i've never liked waiting but it seemed like the
00:11:13.929 --> 00:11:15.698
In my life, i've never liked waiting but it seemed like the more impatient i was the more i
00:11:15.765 --> 00:11:17.733
Waiting but it seemed like the more impatient i was the more i had to wait.
00:11:17.800 --> 00:11:19.902
More impatient i was the more i had to wait. i wouldn't have a choice.
00:11:19.969 --> 00:11:21.337
Had to wait. i wouldn't have a choice. at the grocery store, if i was
00:11:21.403 --> 00:11:22.371
I wouldn't have a choice. at the grocery store, if i was in a hurry, inevitably, i would
00:11:22.438 --> 00:11:24.273
At the grocery store, if i was in a hurry, inevitably, i would get in the line with the slowest
00:11:24.340 --> 00:11:26.242
In a hurry, inevitably, i would get in the line with the slowest cashier, first day on the job.
00:11:26.308 --> 00:11:29.111
Get in the line with the slowest cashier, first day on the job. the man in front of me would
00:11:29.178 --> 00:11:30.479
Cashier, first day on the job. the man in front of me would have 23 items with no price on
00:11:30.546 --> 00:11:31.580
The man in front of me would have 23 items with no price on it. i'd get so frustrated.
00:11:31.647 --> 00:11:33.282
Have 23 items with no price on it. i'd get so frustrated. (laughter)
00:11:33.349 --> 00:11:35.417
It. i'd get so frustrated. (laughter) it seemed like the more
00:11:35.484 --> 00:11:36.318
(laughter) it seemed like the more impatient i was the longer it
00:11:36.385 --> 00:11:37.419
It seemed like the more impatient i was the longer it would take victoria to get
00:11:37.486 --> 00:11:38.854
Impatient i was the longer it would take victoria to get dressed. (laughter)
00:11:38.921 --> 00:11:41.157
Would take victoria to get dressed. (laughter) if we were running late to
00:11:41.223 --> 00:11:41.991
Dressed. (laughter) if we were running late to church, little alexandra
00:11:42.057 --> 00:11:43.292
If we were running late to church, little alexandra wouldn't be able to find her
00:11:43.359 --> 00:11:44.326
Church, little alexandra wouldn't be able to find her shoes. the iron wouldn't work.
00:11:44.393 --> 00:11:46.162
Wouldn't be able to find her shoes. the iron wouldn't work. jonathan would spill something
00:11:46.228 --> 00:11:47.396
Shoes. the iron wouldn't work. jonathan would spill something on his shirt. on and on.
00:11:47.463 --> 00:11:49.365
Jonathan would spill something on his shirt. on and on. i never saw that as a test.
00:11:49.431 --> 00:11:50.866
On his shirt. on and on. i never saw that as a test. i saw that as the enemy trying
00:11:50.933 --> 00:11:52.434
I never saw that as a test. i saw that as the enemy trying to delay me. (laughter)
00:11:52.501 --> 00:11:55.471
I saw that as the enemy trying to delay me. (laughter) so i would try to pray it away,
00:11:55.538 --> 00:11:56.438
To delay me. (laughter) so i would try to pray it away, rebuke, resist.
00:11:56.505 --> 00:11:58.140
So i would try to pray it away, rebuke, resist. "god, i need to get there on
00:11:58.207 --> 00:11:59.241
Rebuke, resist. "god, i need to get there on time. i'm the pastor of the
00:11:59.308 --> 00:12:00.476
"god, i need to get there on time. i'm the pastor of the church, god."
00:12:00.543 --> 00:12:02.077
Time. i'm the pastor of the church, god." "and it's a big church, god.
00:12:02.144 --> 00:12:03.646
Church, god." "and it's a big church, god. lakewood church."
00:12:03.712 --> 00:12:04.580
"and it's a big church, god. lakewood church." (laughter)
00:12:04.647 --> 00:12:06.882
Lakewood church." (laughter) "god, all these things are
00:12:06.949 --> 00:12:07.783
(laughter) "god, all these things are coming against me. god, you
00:12:07.850 --> 00:12:09.151
"god, all these things are coming against me. god, you have got to help me out."
00:12:09.218 --> 00:12:10.653
Coming against me. god, you have got to help me out." the more i prayed the slower
00:12:10.719 --> 00:12:11.453
Have got to help me out." the more i prayed the slower things went. (laughter)
00:12:11.520 --> 00:12:14.223
The more i prayed the slower things went. (laughter) one day i realized what i'm
00:12:14.290 --> 00:12:14.924
Things went. (laughter) one day i realized what i'm telling you.
00:12:14.990 --> 00:12:16.025
One day i realized what i'm telling you. that wasn't the enemy attacking
00:12:16.091 --> 00:12:16.992
Telling you. that wasn't the enemy attacking me.
00:12:17.059 --> 00:12:18.427
That wasn't the enemy attacking me. that was god attacking my
00:12:18.494 --> 00:12:19.862
Me. that was god attacking my problem of being impatient.
00:12:19.929 --> 00:12:22.097
That was god attacking my problem of being impatient. you can rebuke until your
00:12:22.164 --> 00:12:23.399
Problem of being impatient. you can rebuke until your rebuker wears out.
00:12:23.465 --> 00:12:25.301
You can rebuke until your rebuker wears out. (laughter)
00:12:25.367 --> 00:12:26.468
Rebuker wears out. (laughter) you can pray, bind, loose,
00:12:26.535 --> 00:12:27.937
(laughter) you can pray, bind, loose, sing, shout.
00:12:28.003 --> 00:12:28.838
You can pray, bind, loose, sing, shout. it's not going to do any good.
00:12:28.904 --> 00:12:30.139
Sing, shout. it's not going to do any good. god is interested in changing
00:12:30.206 --> 00:12:31.373
It's not going to do any good. god is interested in changing you.
00:12:31.440 --> 00:12:33.008
God is interested in changing you. he is not going to leave you
00:12:33.075 --> 00:12:34.009
You. he is not going to leave you alone.
00:12:34.076 --> 00:12:35.044
He is not going to leave you alone. that test is going to come again
00:12:35.110 --> 00:12:36.212
Alone. that test is going to come again and again.
00:12:36.278 --> 00:12:37.780
That test is going to come again and again. the sooner you deal with it, the
00:12:37.847 --> 00:12:39.582
And again. the sooner you deal with it, the sooner you make adjustments, the
00:12:39.648 --> 00:12:41.417
The sooner you deal with it, the sooner you make adjustments, the better off you'll be.
00:12:41.483 --> 00:12:42.985
Sooner you make adjustments, the better off you'll be. better off you'll be.
00:12:43.052 --> 00:12:43.452
Better off you'll be. better off you'll be. when you're tempted to get your
00:12:43.519 --> 00:12:44.220
Better off you'll be. when you're tempted to get your feelings hurt, somebody says
00:12:44.286 --> 00:12:46.222
When you're tempted to get your feelings hurt, somebody says something insensitive, remind
00:12:46.288 --> 00:12:48.190
Feelings hurt, somebody says something insensitive, remind yourself, "this is only a test.
00:12:48.257 --> 00:12:50.726
Something insensitive, remind yourself, "this is only a test. i'm not going to get bitter.
00:12:50.793 --> 00:12:52.628
Yourself, "this is only a test. i'm not going to get bitter. i know god is fighting my
00:12:52.695 --> 00:12:53.596
I'm not going to get bitter. i know god is fighting my battles."
00:12:53.662 --> 00:12:55.097
I know god is fighting my battles." you go through that
00:12:55.164 --> 00:12:56.265
Battles." you go through that disappointment, "this is only a
00:12:56.332 --> 00:12:57.166
You go through that disappointment, "this is only a test. i know what's meant for
00:12:57.233 --> 00:12:59.134
Disappointment, "this is only a test. i know what's meant for my harm god is going to use to
00:12:59.201 --> 00:13:00.636
Test. i know what's meant for my harm god is going to use to my advantage."
00:13:00.703 --> 00:13:02.204
My harm god is going to use to my advantage." see it as a test.
00:13:02.271 --> 00:13:04.373
My advantage." see it as a test. show god what quality you are.
00:13:04.440 --> 00:13:06.942
See it as a test. show god what quality you are. show god what quality you are.
00:13:07.009 --> 00:13:07.543
Show god what quality you are. show god what quality you are. sometimes god will allow us to
00:13:07.610 --> 00:13:08.611
Show god what quality you are. sometimes god will allow us to be in a situation where we're
00:13:08.677 --> 00:13:10.446
Sometimes god will allow us to be in a situation where we're not getting any thanks, any kind
00:13:10.512 --> 00:13:12.248
Be in a situation where we're not getting any thanks, any kind of appreciation.
00:13:12.314 --> 00:13:14.817
Not getting any thanks, any kind of appreciation. at the office you're doing all
00:13:14.884 --> 00:13:15.918
Of appreciation. at the office you're doing all the work but not getting any
00:13:15.985 --> 00:13:17.620
At the office you're doing all the work but not getting any credit.
00:13:17.686 --> 00:13:19.388
The work but not getting any credit. in the nursery, or at the
00:13:19.455 --> 00:13:20.556
Credit. in the nursery, or at the hospital, you've been
00:13:20.623 --> 00:13:21.657
In the nursery, or at the hospital, you've been volunteering for two years and
00:13:21.724 --> 00:13:23.158
Hospital, you've been volunteering for two years and not one person has ever said
00:13:23.225 --> 00:13:24.593
Volunteering for two years and not one person has ever said thank you.
00:13:24.660 --> 00:13:26.228
Not one person has ever said thank you. it's almost like people have
00:13:26.295 --> 00:13:27.630
Thank you. it's almost like people have gone out of their way to not
00:13:27.696 --> 00:13:29.365
It's almost like people have gone out of their way to not express appreciation, to not
00:13:29.431 --> 00:13:31.500
Gone out of their way to not express appreciation, to not compliment you.
00:13:31.567 --> 00:13:32.968
Express appreciation, to not compliment you. that is not a coincidence.
00:13:33.035 --> 00:13:34.670
Compliment you. that is not a coincidence. that is a test.
00:13:34.737 --> 00:13:36.972
That is not a coincidence. that is a test. god is wanting to teach us to
00:13:37.039 --> 00:13:38.007
That is a test. god is wanting to teach us to trust him in a greater way and
00:13:38.073 --> 00:13:39.875
God is wanting to teach us to trust him in a greater way and to not rely on other people's
00:13:39.942 --> 00:13:41.911
Trust him in a greater way and to not rely on other people's approval.
00:13:41.977 --> 00:13:44.480
To not rely on other people's approval. don't get discouraged.
00:13:44.546 --> 00:13:46.115
Approval. don't get discouraged. keep a good attitude, knowing
00:13:46.181 --> 00:13:47.483
Don't get discouraged. keep a good attitude, knowing that god is using that to work
00:13:47.549 --> 00:13:49.018
Keep a good attitude, knowing that god is using that to work something in you.
00:13:49.084 --> 00:13:51.053
That god is using that to work something in you. he is growing you up, getting
00:13:51.120 --> 00:13:52.655
Something in you. he is growing you up, getting you prepared for greater things.
00:13:52.721 --> 00:13:55.424
He is growing you up, getting you prepared for greater things. you prepared for greater things.
00:13:55.491 --> 00:13:56.058
You prepared for greater things. you prepared for greater things. when i first started ministering
00:13:56.125 --> 00:13:57.059
You prepared for greater things. when i first started ministering back in 1999 i was very
00:13:57.126 --> 00:13:59.428
When i first started ministering back in 1999 i was very insecure.
00:13:59.495 --> 00:14:01.063
Back in 1999 i was very insecure. i'd never done this before and i
00:14:01.130 --> 00:14:02.631
Insecure. i'd never done this before and i relied so heavily on people's
00:14:02.698 --> 00:14:04.466
I'd never done this before and i relied so heavily on people's compliments.
00:14:04.533 --> 00:14:07.202
Relied so heavily on people's compliments. after the service, if enough
00:14:07.269 --> 00:14:08.404
Compliments. after the service, if enough people didn't tell me, "that was
00:14:08.470 --> 00:14:09.638
After the service, if enough people didn't tell me, "that was good" and they enjoyed it,
00:14:09.705 --> 00:14:11.006
People didn't tell me, "that was good" and they enjoyed it, i'd get discouraged and wonder
00:14:11.073 --> 00:14:12.374
Good" and they enjoyed it, i'd get discouraged and wonder if i was even called to do
00:14:12.441 --> 00:14:13.809
I'd get discouraged and wonder if i was even called to do this.
00:14:13.876 --> 00:14:15.978
If i was even called to do this. the first year or so, i had all
00:14:16.045 --> 00:14:17.980
This. the first year or so, i had all kinds of compliments.
00:14:18.047 --> 00:14:19.648
The first year or so, i had all kinds of compliments. i'd go home sunday afternoon all
00:14:19.715 --> 00:14:20.916
Kinds of compliments. i'd go home sunday afternoon all fired up, ready for the next
00:14:20.983 --> 00:14:22.651
I'd go home sunday afternoon all fired up, ready for the next week.
00:14:22.718 --> 00:14:24.687
Fired up, ready for the next week. but a year or two into it it got
00:14:24.753 --> 00:14:25.621
Week. but a year or two into it it got to the place where i wasn't
00:14:25.688 --> 00:14:26.588
But a year or two into it it got to the place where i wasn't getting the appreciation like i
00:14:26.655 --> 00:14:28.490
To the place where i wasn't getting the appreciation like i had before.
00:14:28.557 --> 00:14:30.659
Getting the appreciation like i had before. i remember one sunday in
00:14:30.726 --> 00:14:31.827
Had before. i remember one sunday in particular i spoke the best
00:14:31.894 --> 00:14:33.162
I remember one sunday in particular i spoke the best message that i possibly could.
00:14:33.228 --> 00:14:36.298
Particular i spoke the best message that i possibly could. afterwards i was just waiting
00:14:36.365 --> 00:14:37.433
Message that i possibly could. afterwards i was just waiting for everybody to tell me how
00:14:37.499 --> 00:14:39.768
Afterwards i was just waiting for everybody to tell me how much they enjoyed it.
00:14:39.835 --> 00:14:41.637
For everybody to tell me how much they enjoyed it. but do you know not one person
00:14:41.704 --> 00:14:43.772
Much they enjoyed it. but do you know not one person said anything about it?
00:14:43.839 --> 00:14:45.341
But do you know not one person said anything about it? not even victoria and she always
00:14:45.407 --> 00:14:46.976
Said anything about it? not even victoria and she always would compliment me.
00:14:47.042 --> 00:14:48.544
Not even victoria and she always would compliment me. what am i saying?
00:14:48.610 --> 00:14:50.279
Would compliment me. what am i saying? sometimes god will cause people
00:14:50.346 --> 00:14:53.349
What am i saying? sometimes god will cause people in your life to not give you
00:14:53.415 --> 00:14:54.750
Sometimes god will cause people in your life to not give you something so that you can grow
00:14:54.817 --> 00:14:56.051
In your life to not give you something so that you can grow up.
00:14:56.118 --> 00:14:58.420
Something so that you can grow up. i mean, victoria's personality
00:14:58.487 --> 00:14:59.621
Up. i mean, victoria's personality is very encouraging.
00:14:59.688 --> 00:15:01.423
I mean, victoria's personality is very encouraging. for her to not say something, it
00:15:01.490 --> 00:15:02.925
Is very encouraging. for her to not say something, it had to be god, especially since
00:15:02.992 --> 00:15:04.460
For her to not say something, it had to be god, especially since my message was so good.
00:15:04.526 --> 00:15:06.295
Had to be god, especially since my message was so good. (laughter)
00:15:06.362 --> 00:15:08.430
My message was so good. (laughter) but one day i realized that was
00:15:08.497 --> 00:15:09.398
(laughter) but one day i realized that was a test.
00:15:09.465 --> 00:15:11.200
But one day i realized that was a test. that was god teaching me to not
00:15:11.266 --> 00:15:12.801
A test. that was god teaching me to not rely on what everybody thinks
00:15:12.868 --> 00:15:15.938
That was god teaching me to not rely on what everybody thinks and not to just live to please
00:15:16.005 --> 00:15:17.373
Rely on what everybody thinks and not to just live to please people but instead to be my best
00:15:17.439 --> 00:15:19.875
And not to just live to please people but instead to be my best knowing that he is pleased with
00:15:19.942 --> 00:15:21.043
People but instead to be my best knowing that he is pleased with me. (applause)
00:15:21.110 --> 00:15:23.112
Knowing that he is pleased with me. (applause) me. (applause)
00:15:23.178 --> 00:15:24.246
Me. (applause) me. (applause) i have a minister friend.
00:15:24.313 --> 00:15:25.247
Me. (applause) i have a minister friend. he struggled in this same area.
00:15:25.314 --> 00:15:26.849
I have a minister friend. he struggled in this same area. he just lived by how many
00:15:26.915 --> 00:15:28.317
He struggled in this same area. he just lived by how many compliments he could get and how
00:15:28.384 --> 00:15:29.618
He just lived by how many compliments he could get and how many people liked his message.
00:15:29.685 --> 00:15:31.687
Compliments he could get and how many people liked his message. one sunday after the service he
00:15:31.754 --> 00:15:33.589
Many people liked his message. one sunday after the service he asked the man that sold his cd's
00:15:33.655 --> 00:15:35.224
One sunday after the service he asked the man that sold his cd's in the back, "did anybody buy a
00:15:35.290 --> 00:15:37.559
Asked the man that sold his cd's in the back, "did anybody buy a cd from this morning's message?"
00:15:37.626 --> 00:15:40.629
In the back, "did anybody buy a cd from this morning's message?" he was hoping to get a good
00:15:40.696 --> 00:15:41.296
Cd from this morning's message?" he was hoping to get a good report and be encouraged.
00:15:41.363 --> 00:15:42.765
He was hoping to get a good report and be encouraged. the man said, "no, pastor.
00:15:42.831 --> 00:15:44.299
Report and be encouraged. the man said, "no, pastor. nobody bought a cd of today's
00:15:44.366 --> 00:15:46.502
The man said, "no, pastor. nobody bought a cd of today's message but one lady did return
00:15:46.568 --> 00:15:47.636
Nobody bought a cd of today's message but one lady did return one from last week."
00:15:47.703 --> 00:15:49.805
Message but one lady did return one from last week." (laughter)
00:15:49.872 --> 00:15:51.373
One from last week." (laughter) we have to realize those are
00:15:51.440 --> 00:15:52.241
(laughter) we have to realize those are testing times.
00:15:52.307 --> 00:15:55.077
We have to realize those are testing times. if your spouse is not giving you
00:15:55.144 --> 00:15:56.912
Testing times. if your spouse is not giving you compliments like they used to,
00:15:56.979 --> 00:15:59.314
If your spouse is not giving you compliments like they used to, that's a test.
00:15:59.381 --> 00:16:01.683
Compliments like they used to, that's a test. if you're doing the work and not
00:16:01.750 --> 00:16:03.152
That's a test. if you're doing the work and not getting the credit, it's a test.
00:16:03.218 --> 00:16:06.155
If you're doing the work and not getting the credit, it's a test. if people are overlooking you,
00:16:06.221 --> 00:16:07.956
Getting the credit, it's a test. if people are overlooking you, take it all in stride and pass
00:16:08.023 --> 00:16:10.025
If people are overlooking you, take it all in stride and pass that test.
00:16:10.092 --> 00:16:11.627
Take it all in stride and pass that test. that's god growing you up.
00:16:11.693 --> 00:16:14.229
That test. that's god growing you up. it's easy to get a chip on our
00:16:14.296 --> 00:16:15.364
That's god growing you up. it's easy to get a chip on our shoulder and think, "nobody
00:16:15.431 --> 00:16:16.799
It's easy to get a chip on our shoulder and think, "nobody appreciates me.
00:16:16.865 --> 00:16:18.267
Shoulder and think, "nobody appreciates me. see if i do anything for you."
00:16:18.333 --> 00:16:20.803
Appreciates me. see if i do anything for you." no, keep the good attitude and
00:16:20.869 --> 00:16:22.371
See if i do anything for you." no, keep the good attitude and say, "god, i'm going to be my
00:16:22.438 --> 00:16:23.839
No, keep the good attitude and say, "god, i'm going to be my best each day unto you.
00:16:23.906 --> 00:16:26.642
Say, "god, i'm going to be my best each day unto you. if people don't give me credit,
00:16:26.708 --> 00:16:28.277
Best each day unto you. if people don't give me credit, if they don't recognize it,
00:16:28.343 --> 00:16:29.511
If people don't give me credit, if they don't recognize it, that's alright. i know you will
00:16:29.578 --> 00:16:30.512
If they don't recognize it, that's alright. i know you will give me everything that i
00:16:30.579 --> 00:16:31.647
That's alright. i know you will give me everything that i need."
00:16:31.713 --> 00:16:33.215
Give me everything that i need." need."
00:16:33.282 --> 00:16:33.782
Need." need." see, god wants us to get our
00:16:33.849 --> 00:16:35.150
Need." see, god wants us to get our approval, our worth, our value,
00:16:35.217 --> 00:16:37.186
See, god wants us to get our approval, our worth, our value, from him.
00:16:37.252 --> 00:16:39.922
Approval, our worth, our value, from him. that way we're not dependent on
00:16:39.988 --> 00:16:41.423
From him. that way we're not dependent on other people.
00:16:41.490 --> 00:16:43.358
That way we're not dependent on other people. people will let you down.
00:16:43.425 --> 00:16:44.993
Other people. people will let you down. people will be too busy.
00:16:45.060 --> 00:16:47.396
People will let you down. people will be too busy. people won't always be there
00:16:47.463 --> 00:16:49.231
People will be too busy. people won't always be there when you need them.
00:16:49.298 --> 00:16:49.998
People won't always be there when you need them. really, no one person can keep
00:16:50.065 --> 00:16:51.500
When you need them. really, no one person can keep you cheered up, keep you feeling
00:16:51.567 --> 00:16:53.535
Really, no one person can keep you cheered up, keep you feeling good about yourself.
00:16:53.602 --> 00:16:55.637
You cheered up, keep you feeling good about yourself. only god can.
00:16:55.704 --> 00:16:57.773
Good about yourself. only god can. we start off like babies where
00:16:57.840 --> 00:16:59.875
Only god can. we start off like babies where we need somebody to take care of
00:16:59.942 --> 00:17:01.110
We start off like babies where we need somebody to take care of us, somebody to encourage us
00:17:01.176 --> 00:17:03.846
We need somebody to take care of us, somebody to encourage us when we're down, to make sure we
00:17:03.912 --> 00:17:06.014
Us, somebody to encourage us when we're down, to make sure we feel loved, appreciated, valued,
00:17:06.081 --> 00:17:09.585
When we're down, to make sure we feel loved, appreciated, valued, approved.
00:17:09.651 --> 00:17:10.352
Feel loved, appreciated, valued, approved. that's all important.
00:17:10.419 --> 00:17:11.887
Approved. that's all important. we need that for a season.
00:17:11.954 --> 00:17:13.822
That's all important. we need that for a season. but there will come a point
00:17:13.889 --> 00:17:14.990
We need that for a season. but there will come a point where god will say, "it's time
00:17:15.057 --> 00:17:16.925
But there will come a point where god will say, "it's time to grow up. i want you to
00:17:16.992 --> 00:17:18.627
Where god will say, "it's time to grow up. i want you to depend not on people but on
00:17:18.694 --> 00:17:21.697
To grow up. i want you to depend not on people but on me."
00:17:21.763 --> 00:17:23.398
Depend not on people but on me." and god will remove that crutch,
00:17:23.465 --> 00:17:24.666
Me." and god will remove that crutch, so to speak.
00:17:24.733 --> 00:17:27.035
And god will remove that crutch, so to speak. that person that's always
00:17:27.102 --> 00:17:28.103
So to speak. that person that's always keeping you cheered up.
00:17:28.170 --> 00:17:29.471
That person that's always keeping you cheered up. that friend that calls you all
00:17:29.538 --> 00:17:30.939
Keeping you cheered up. that friend that calls you all the time to compliment you and
00:17:31.006 --> 00:17:32.674
That friend that calls you all the time to compliment you and tell you how great you are.
00:17:32.741 --> 00:17:35.210
The time to compliment you and tell you how great you are. he will remove maybe not the
00:17:35.277 --> 00:17:36.411
Tell you how great you are. he will remove maybe not the person but the encouragement,
00:17:36.478 --> 00:17:39.548
He will remove maybe not the person but the encouragement, the compliments, the approval.
00:17:39.615 --> 00:17:40.482
Person but the encouragement, the compliments, the approval. don't get mad at them.
00:17:40.549 --> 00:17:42.451
The compliments, the approval. don't get mad at them. it's a test.
00:17:42.518 --> 00:17:44.720
Don't get mad at them. it's a test. god is saying, "i want you to
00:17:44.786 --> 00:17:45.988
It's a test. god is saying, "i want you to look to me. i'm everything you
00:17:46.054 --> 00:17:48.056
God is saying, "i want you to look to me. i'm everything you need. i'm your encouragement.
00:17:48.123 --> 00:17:50.492
Look to me. i'm everything you need. i'm your encouragement. i'm your approval. i'm your
00:17:50.559 --> 00:17:51.593
Need. i'm your encouragement. i'm your approval. i'm your validation. i'm your friend."
00:17:51.660 --> 00:17:53.562
I'm your approval. i'm your validation. i'm your friend." (applause)
00:17:53.629 --> 00:17:54.830
Validation. i'm your friend." (applause) "i love you. i'm for you.
00:17:54.897 --> 00:17:56.832
(applause) "i love you. i'm for you. i will never let you down."
00:17:56.899 --> 00:17:59.535
"i love you. i'm for you. i will never let you down." i will never let you down."
00:17:59.601 --> 00:18:00.335
I will never let you down." i will never let you down." if god didn't remove the crutch
00:18:00.402 --> 00:18:02.304
I will never let you down." if god didn't remove the crutch we would never grow up and
00:18:02.371 --> 00:18:03.739
If god didn't remove the crutch we would never grow up and become all he has created us to
00:18:03.805 --> 00:18:05.274
We would never grow up and become all he has created us to be.
00:18:05.340 --> 00:18:06.575
Become all he has created us to be. be.
00:18:06.642 --> 00:18:07.242
Be. be. our son jonathan is seventeen
00:18:07.309 --> 00:18:08.076
Be. our son jonathan is seventeen years old now.
00:18:08.143 --> 00:18:09.711
Our son jonathan is seventeen years old now. when he was a little boy i used
00:18:09.778 --> 00:18:11.079
Years old now. when he was a little boy i used to cut his food up for him and
00:18:11.146 --> 00:18:13.348
When he was a little boy i used to cut his food up for him and make sure that he had brushed
00:18:13.415 --> 00:18:14.950
To cut his food up for him and make sure that he had brushed his teeth.
00:18:15.017 --> 00:18:16.118
Make sure that he had brushed his teeth. every day before he'd go to
00:18:16.185 --> 00:18:17.819
His teeth. every day before he'd go to first grade he would come into
00:18:17.886 --> 00:18:19.388
Every day before he'd go to first grade he would come into my room and say, "daddy, fix my
00:18:19.454 --> 00:18:20.489
First grade he would come into my room and say, "daddy, fix my hair like you fix yours."
00:18:20.556 --> 00:18:22.891
My room and say, "daddy, fix my hair like you fix yours." i'd get that gel and pull it
00:18:22.958 --> 00:18:24.226
Hair like you fix yours." i'd get that gel and pull it back just right. (laughter)
00:18:24.293 --> 00:18:26.995
I'd get that gel and pull it back just right. (laughter) we told him morning, noon and
00:18:27.062 --> 00:18:28.263
Back just right. (laughter) we told him morning, noon and night how much we loved him, how
00:18:28.330 --> 00:18:30.766
We told him morning, noon and night how much we loved him, how proud we were of him, how he was
00:18:30.832 --> 00:18:32.734
Night how much we loved him, how proud we were of him, how he was going to do great things in
00:18:32.801 --> 00:18:33.902
Proud we were of him, how he was going to do great things in life.
00:18:33.969 --> 00:18:34.903
Going to do great things in life. and that's important.
00:18:34.970 --> 00:18:36.171
Life. and that's important. we should do that as parents.
00:18:36.238 --> 00:18:37.839
And that's important. we should do that as parents. but now that he is seventeen i
00:18:37.906 --> 00:18:39.608
We should do that as parents. but now that he is seventeen i don't cut his food up for him
00:18:39.675 --> 00:18:41.777
But now that he is seventeen i don't cut his food up for him anymore. he won't let me touch
00:18:41.843 --> 00:18:42.911
Don't cut his food up for him anymore. he won't let me touch his hair. (laughter)
00:18:42.978 --> 00:18:45.280
Anymore. he won't let me touch his hair. (laughter) he doesn't have to hear every
00:18:45.347 --> 00:18:46.381
His hair. (laughter) he doesn't have to hear every ten minutes how much we love
00:18:46.448 --> 00:18:47.749
He doesn't have to hear every ten minutes how much we love him, how much we're proud of
00:18:47.816 --> 00:18:50.185
Ten minutes how much we love him, how much we're proud of him, for him to still feel good
00:18:50.252 --> 00:18:52.087
Him, how much we're proud of him, for him to still feel good about himself.
00:18:52.154 --> 00:18:53.422
Him, for him to still feel good about himself. he's growing up.
00:18:53.488 --> 00:18:54.756
About himself. he's growing up. it's the same way with our
00:18:54.823 --> 00:18:55.924
He's growing up. it's the same way with our heavenly father.
00:18:55.991 --> 00:18:57.826
It's the same way with our heavenly father. we start off like little babies.
00:18:57.893 --> 00:19:00.128
Heavenly father. we start off like little babies. god will make sure somebody is
00:19:00.195 --> 00:19:01.663
We start off like little babies. god will make sure somebody is there to encourage us, somebody
00:19:01.730 --> 00:19:03.332
God will make sure somebody is there to encourage us, somebody to tell us how loved and
00:19:03.398 --> 00:19:05.601
There to encourage us, somebody to tell us how loved and valuable and needed we are.
00:19:05.667 --> 00:19:08.437
To tell us how loved and valuable and needed we are. there's a season where it seems
00:19:08.503 --> 00:19:10.339
Valuable and needed we are. there's a season where it seems like everything falls into
00:19:10.405 --> 00:19:11.907
There's a season where it seems like everything falls into place.
00:19:11.974 --> 00:19:13.141
Like everything falls into place. your prayers are getting
00:19:13.208 --> 00:19:13.976
Place. your prayers are getting answered left and right.
00:19:14.042 --> 00:19:16.245
Your prayers are getting answered left and right. a friend calls at just the right
00:19:16.311 --> 00:19:17.613
Answered left and right. a friend calls at just the right time and gives you a word in due
00:19:17.679 --> 00:19:19.314
A friend calls at just the right time and gives you a word in due season.
00:19:19.381 --> 00:19:21.083
Time and gives you a word in due season. you open the bible and read just
00:19:21.149 --> 00:19:22.451
Season. you open the bible and read just what you need to hear.
00:19:22.517 --> 00:19:24.086
You open the bible and read just what you need to hear. you know god is real.
00:19:24.152 --> 00:19:25.754
What you need to hear. you know god is real. you've seen his hand again and
00:19:25.821 --> 00:19:27.222
You know god is real. you've seen his hand again and again.
00:19:27.289 --> 00:19:28.824
You've seen his hand again and again. and that's great for a season
00:19:28.890 --> 00:19:31.293
Again. and that's great for a season but the truth is it won't last
00:19:31.360 --> 00:19:32.661
And that's great for a season but the truth is it won't last forever.
00:19:32.728 --> 00:19:34.229
But the truth is it won't last forever. god won't let us stay babies.
00:19:34.296 --> 00:19:37.399
Forever. god won't let us stay babies. there'll be a point where god
00:19:37.466 --> 00:19:38.600
God won't let us stay babies. there'll be a point where god removes the pampering.
00:19:38.667 --> 00:19:40.836
There'll be a point where god removes the pampering. if he didn't it would hinder our
00:19:40.902 --> 00:19:42.904
Removes the pampering. if he didn't it would hinder our growth.
00:19:42.971 --> 00:19:44.273
If he didn't it would hinder our growth. i could still be cutting
00:19:44.339 --> 00:19:45.374
Growth. i could still be cutting jonathan's food up for him but
00:19:45.440 --> 00:19:46.842
I could still be cutting jonathan's food up for him but that would be doing him a
00:19:46.908 --> 00:19:48.076
Jonathan's food up for him but that would be doing him a disservice.
00:19:48.143 --> 00:19:49.745
That would be doing him a disservice. if you're not getting what you
00:19:49.811 --> 00:19:51.113
Disservice. if you're not getting what you used to, the approval from
00:19:51.179 --> 00:19:53.081
If you're not getting what you used to, the approval from another person, your prayers
00:19:53.148 --> 00:19:56.051
Used to, the approval from another person, your prayers don't get answered the first day
00:19:56.118 --> 00:19:57.119
Another person, your prayers don't get answered the first day like they did before.
00:19:57.185 --> 00:19:58.787
Don't get answered the first day like they did before. this may sound strange but take
00:19:58.854 --> 00:20:00.355
Like they did before. this may sound strange but take that as a compliment.
00:20:00.422 --> 00:20:02.624
This may sound strange but take that as a compliment. god is growing you up.
00:20:02.691 --> 00:20:04.860
That as a compliment. god is growing you up. he is maturing you, getting you
00:20:04.926 --> 00:20:06.328
God is growing you up. he is maturing you, getting you ready for the amazing future he
00:20:06.395 --> 00:20:07.929
He is maturing you, getting you ready for the amazing future he has in store.
00:20:07.996 --> 00:20:10.032
Ready for the amazing future he has in store. it's funny how when we first
00:20:10.098 --> 00:20:10.966
Has in store. it's funny how when we first start off, how many times have
00:20:11.033 --> 00:20:12.267
It's funny how when we first start off, how many times have we opened our bible, just
00:20:12.334 --> 00:20:13.702
Start off, how many times have we opened our bible, just randomly, closed our eyes and
00:20:13.769 --> 00:20:15.971
We opened our bible, just randomly, closed our eyes and pointed to a scripture and there
00:20:16.038 --> 00:20:17.272
Randomly, closed our eyes and pointed to a scripture and there is something just what we needed
00:20:17.339 --> 00:20:19.408
Pointed to a scripture and there is something just what we needed to hear. it just spoke to us.
00:20:19.474 --> 00:20:21.076
Is something just what we needed to hear. it just spoke to us. you go a few years and start to
00:20:21.143 --> 00:20:22.744
To hear. it just spoke to us. you go a few years and start to grow up and open that bible,
00:20:22.811 --> 00:20:24.913
You go a few years and start to grow up and open that bible, randomly point and it says,
00:20:24.980 --> 00:20:26.581
Grow up and open that bible, randomly point and it says, "?repent, you brood of vipers."
00:20:26.648 --> 00:20:28.650
Randomly point and it says, "?repent, you brood of vipers." (laughter)
00:20:28.717 --> 00:20:30.719
"?repent, you brood of vipers." (laughter) that's when you know you're
00:20:30.786 --> 00:20:31.853
(laughter) that's when you know you're growing up.
00:20:31.920 --> 00:20:33.255
That's when you know you're growing up. now pass the test.
00:20:33.322 --> 00:20:34.222
Growing up. now pass the test. learn to encourage yourself.
00:20:34.289 --> 00:20:37.125
Now pass the test. learn to encourage yourself. stay faithful even though your
00:20:37.192 --> 00:20:38.593
Learn to encourage yourself. stay faithful even though your prayers aren't being answered on
00:20:38.660 --> 00:20:40.462
Stay faithful even though your prayers aren't being answered on your timetable.
00:20:40.529 --> 00:20:42.130
Prayers aren't being answered on your timetable. don't rely on other people for
00:20:42.197 --> 00:20:43.832
Your timetable. don't rely on other people for their approval, their
00:20:43.899 --> 00:20:45.000
Don't rely on other people for their approval, their validation.
00:20:45.067 --> 00:20:46.868
Their approval, their validation. get up every morning and say,
00:20:46.935 --> 00:20:48.537
Validation. get up every morning and say, "father, i want to thank you
00:20:48.603 --> 00:20:49.805
Get up every morning and say, "father, i want to thank you that you approve me.
00:20:49.871 --> 00:20:51.673
"father, i want to thank you that you approve me. you made me in your image.
00:20:51.740 --> 00:20:54.142
That you approve me. you made me in your image. you breathed your life into me.
00:20:54.209 --> 00:20:55.944
You made me in your image. you breathed your life into me. you said i'm a masterpiece.
00:20:56.011 --> 00:20:58.513
You breathed your life into me. you said i'm a masterpiece. i'm valuable. i'm approved.
00:20:58.580 --> 00:21:00.749
You said i'm a masterpiece. i'm valuable. i'm approved. so god, i don't need other
00:21:00.816 --> 00:21:01.783
I'm valuable. i'm approved. so god, i don't need other people's approval i have your
00:21:01.850 --> 00:21:03.418
So god, i don't need other people's approval i have your approval."
00:21:03.485 --> 00:21:06.288
People's approval i have your approval." the more we grow, the more we
00:21:06.355 --> 00:21:07.155
Approval." the more we grow, the more we mature, the less and less
00:21:07.222 --> 00:21:08.223
The more we grow, the more we mature, the less and less dependent we become on what
00:21:08.290 --> 00:21:10.892
Mature, the less and less dependent we become on what other people think, or on what
00:21:10.959 --> 00:21:13.562
Dependent we become on what other people think, or on what other people do or don't give
00:21:13.628 --> 00:21:16.031
Other people think, or on what other people do or don't give us.
00:21:16.098 --> 00:21:17.399
Other people do or don't give us. we get it from our heavenly
00:21:17.466 --> 00:21:18.133
Us. we get it from our heavenly father.
00:21:18.200 --> 00:21:19.735
We get it from our heavenly father. and some of you today are
00:21:19.801 --> 00:21:20.569
Father. and some of you today are frustrated because a prayer is
00:21:20.635 --> 00:21:21.837
And some of you today are frustrated because a prayer is not being answered.
00:21:21.903 --> 00:21:23.238
Frustrated because a prayer is not being answered. another person is not giving you
00:21:23.305 --> 00:21:24.373
Not being answered. another person is not giving you the approval they used to.
00:21:24.439 --> 00:21:26.842
Another person is not giving you the approval they used to. you kind of feel like that god
00:21:26.908 --> 00:21:28.610
The approval they used to. you kind of feel like that god has forgotten all about you.
00:21:28.677 --> 00:21:30.979
You kind of feel like that god has forgotten all about you. but it's just the opposite.
00:21:31.046 --> 00:21:32.714
Has forgotten all about you. but it's just the opposite. god is closely watching you.
00:21:32.781 --> 00:21:34.883
But it's just the opposite. god is closely watching you. this is a test of your quality.
00:21:34.950 --> 00:21:38.754
God is closely watching you. this is a test of your quality. god wants to see what you're
00:21:38.820 --> 00:21:39.721
This is a test of your quality. god wants to see what you're made of.
00:21:39.788 --> 00:21:41.590
God wants to see what you're made of. this is not the time to get
00:21:41.656 --> 00:21:42.991
Made of. this is not the time to get discouraged.
00:21:43.058 --> 00:21:44.493
This is not the time to get discouraged. it's not the time to think,
00:21:44.559 --> 00:21:45.660
Discouraged. it's not the time to think, "what's the use? it's never
00:21:45.727 --> 00:21:46.828
It's not the time to think, "what's the use? it's never going to change. i'm stuck
00:21:46.895 --> 00:21:47.829
"what's the use? it's never going to change. i'm stuck here."
00:21:47.896 --> 00:21:48.830
Going to change. i'm stuck here." no, it's only a test.
00:21:48.897 --> 00:21:51.433
Here." no, it's only a test. this is the time more than ever
00:21:51.500 --> 00:21:52.901
No, it's only a test. this is the time more than ever to dig your heels in and sow a
00:21:52.968 --> 00:21:54.836
This is the time more than ever to dig your heels in and sow a radical seed of obedience.
00:21:54.903 --> 00:21:58.206
To dig your heels in and sow a radical seed of obedience. do the right thing in spite of
00:21:58.273 --> 00:22:00.809
Radical seed of obedience. do the right thing in spite of what somebody is not giving you.
00:22:00.876 --> 00:22:02.411
Do the right thing in spite of what somebody is not giving you. keep praying even though it
00:22:02.477 --> 00:22:03.779
What somebody is not giving you. keep praying even though it feels like god went on vacation.
00:22:03.845 --> 00:22:06.415
Keep praying even though it feels like god went on vacation. keep believing even though your
00:22:06.481 --> 00:22:08.016
Feels like god went on vacation. keep believing even though your mind is telling you it's never
00:22:08.083 --> 00:22:09.484
Keep believing even though your mind is telling you it's never going to change.
00:22:09.551 --> 00:22:11.386
Mind is telling you it's never going to change. if you'll do that, you'll pass
00:22:11.453 --> 00:22:12.354
Going to change. if you'll do that, you'll pass that test and you will see that
00:22:12.421 --> 00:22:14.423
If you'll do that, you'll pass that test and you will see that radical harvest.
00:22:14.489 --> 00:22:15.891
That test and you will see that radical harvest. that's what it says in james.
00:22:15.957 --> 00:22:17.259
Radical harvest. that's what it says in james. when we pass the test you will
00:22:17.325 --> 00:22:19.127
That's what it says in james. when we pass the test you will receive a victor's crown of
00:22:19.194 --> 00:22:21.363
When we pass the test you will receive a victor's crown of life.
00:22:21.430 --> 00:22:23.865
Receive a victor's crown of life. friends, there is a crown of
00:22:23.932 --> 00:22:25.000
Life. friends, there is a crown of victory waiting for you.
00:22:25.066 --> 00:22:27.202
Friends, there is a crown of victory waiting for you. the test you are in is not
00:22:27.269 --> 00:22:28.403
Victory waiting for you. the test you are in is not permanent.
00:22:28.470 --> 00:22:30.071
The test you are in is not permanent. it's only for a season.
00:22:30.138 --> 00:22:31.973
Permanent. it's only for a season. you keep moving forward.
00:22:32.040 --> 00:22:33.675
It's only for a season. you keep moving forward. don't fight against everything
00:22:33.742 --> 00:22:34.943
You keep moving forward. don't fight against everything that's hard.
00:22:35.010 --> 00:22:36.645
Don't fight against everything that's hard. let god make you and mold you.
00:22:36.711 --> 00:22:38.680
That's hard. let god make you and mold you. work with god.
00:22:38.747 --> 00:22:41.249
Let god make you and mold you. work with god. be willing to make adjustments,
00:22:41.316 --> 00:22:42.884
Work with god. be willing to make adjustments, make improvements.
00:22:42.951 --> 00:22:44.419
Be willing to make adjustments, make improvements. god is always giving us
00:22:44.486 --> 00:22:45.921
Make improvements. god is always giving us opportunities to come up higher.
00:22:45.987 --> 00:22:48.089
God is always giving us opportunities to come up higher. as you grow, as you mature, god
00:22:48.156 --> 00:22:50.158
Opportunities to come up higher. as you grow, as you mature, god is going to release the
00:22:50.225 --> 00:22:51.827
As you grow, as you mature, god is going to release the inheritance that he has laid up
00:22:51.893 --> 00:22:53.328
Is going to release the inheritance that he has laid up for you.
00:22:53.395 --> 00:22:54.896
Inheritance that he has laid up for you. it's like nothing you've seen
00:22:54.963 --> 00:22:56.364
For you. it's like nothing you've seen before.
00:22:56.431 --> 00:22:57.732
It's like nothing you've seen before. god is going to release favor in
00:22:57.799 --> 00:22:59.000
Before. god is going to release favor in a greater way.
00:22:59.067 --> 00:23:00.869
God is going to release favor in a greater way. you're going to come into
00:23:00.936 --> 00:23:02.237
A greater way. you're going to come into supernatural opportunities.
00:23:02.304 --> 00:23:04.206
You're going to come into supernatural opportunities. problems that have dogged you
00:23:04.272 --> 00:23:05.474
Supernatural opportunities. problems that have dogged you for years are going to suddenly
00:23:05.540 --> 00:23:06.842
Problems that have dogged you for years are going to suddenly turn around.
00:23:06.908 --> 00:23:08.777
For years are going to suddenly turn around. loved ones that wouldn't have
00:23:08.844 --> 00:23:09.778
Turn around. loved ones that wouldn't have anything to do with the lord are
00:23:09.845 --> 00:23:11.313
Loved ones that wouldn't have anything to do with the lord are going to suddenly come back
00:23:11.379 --> 00:23:13.148
Anything to do with the lord are going to suddenly come back home.
00:23:13.215 --> 00:23:14.015
Going to suddenly come back home. dreams you've been praying about
00:23:14.082 --> 00:23:15.183
Home. dreams you've been praying about are going to suddenly come to
00:23:15.250 --> 00:23:16.284
Dreams you've been praying about are going to suddenly come to pass.
00:23:16.351 --> 00:23:17.519
Are going to suddenly come to pass. because you passed the test god
00:23:17.586 --> 00:23:19.087
Pass. because you passed the test god promises a crown of victory is
00:23:19.154 --> 00:23:21.189
Because you passed the test god promises a crown of victory is waiting for you.
00:23:21.256 --> 00:23:23.091
Promises a crown of victory is waiting for you. that means victory in your
00:23:23.158 --> 00:23:24.626
Waiting for you. that means victory in your health, victory in your
00:23:24.693 --> 00:23:25.794
That means victory in your health, victory in your finances, victory in your
00:23:25.861 --> 00:23:27.062
Health, victory in your finances, victory in your career, victory in
00:23:27.128 --> 00:23:28.463
Finances, victory in your career, victory in relationships.
00:23:28.530 --> 00:23:30.732
Career, victory in relationships. i believe and declare victory is
00:23:30.799 --> 00:23:32.400
Relationships. i believe and declare victory is in your future.
00:23:32.467 --> 00:23:34.269
I believe and declare victory is in your future. in jesus' name.
00:23:34.336 --> 00:23:36.037
In your future. in jesus' name. if you receive it today can you
00:23:36.104 --> 00:23:37.506
In jesus' name. if you receive it today can you say, "amen." (amen)
00:23:37.572 --> 00:23:39.274
If you receive it today can you say, "amen." (amen) (applause)
00:23:39.341 --> 00:23:41.042
Say, "amen." (amen) (applause) well, we never like to close
00:23:41.109 --> 00:23:41.776
(applause) well, we never like to close our broadcast without giving you
00:23:41.843 --> 00:23:43.178
Well, we never like to close our broadcast without giving you an opportunity to make jesus the
00:23:43.245 --> 00:23:44.946
Our broadcast without giving you an opportunity to make jesus the lord of your life.
00:23:45.013 --> 00:23:46.481
An opportunity to make jesus the lord of your life. would you pray with me?
00:23:46.548 --> 00:23:47.649
Lord of your life. would you pray with me? just say, "lord jesus,
00:23:47.716 --> 00:23:49.417
Would you pray with me? just say, "lord jesus, i repent of my sins.
00:23:49.484 --> 00:23:52.287
Just say, "lord jesus, i repent of my sins. come in to my heart.
00:23:52.354 --> 00:23:54.089
I repent of my sins. come in to my heart. i make you my lord and savior."
00:23:54.155 --> 00:23:57.392
Come in to my heart. i make you my lord and savior." friends, if you prayed that
00:23:57.459 --> 00:23:59.427
I make you my lord and savior." friends, if you prayed that simple prayer we believe
00:23:59.494 --> 00:24:00.795
Friends, if you prayed that simple prayer we believe you got born again.
00:24:00.862 --> 00:24:02.063
Simple prayer we believe you got born again. get in a good bible-based
00:24:02.130 --> 00:24:03.131
You got born again. get in a good bible-based church.
00:24:03.198 --> 00:24:03.999
Get in a good bible-based church. keep god first place.
00:24:04.065 --> 00:24:06.067
Church. keep god first place. he's going to take you places
00:24:06.134 --> 00:24:07.435
Keep god first place. he's going to take you places that you've never dreamed of.
00:24:07.502 --> 00:24:08.803
Life throws so much at us.
00:24:10.105 --> 00:24:12.040
Life throws so much at us. disappointments,
00:24:12.107 --> 00:24:13.141
Disappointments, failures, challenges.
00:24:13.208 --> 00:24:15.176
Failures, challenges. we can feel so out of touch
00:24:15.243 --> 00:24:17.112
We can feel so out of touch that we no longer
00:24:17.178 --> 00:24:18.079
That we no longer recognize ourselves.
00:24:18.146 --> 00:24:20.048
Recognize ourselves. life has a way of changing us.
00:24:20.148 --> 00:24:22.050
Life has a way of changing us. at one time
00:24:22.117 --> 00:24:22.651
At one time we were outgoing
00:24:22.717 --> 00:24:23.685
We were outgoing and excited about our dreams.
00:24:23.752 --> 00:24:25.687
And excited about our dreams. but when we go
00:24:25.754 --> 00:24:26.221
But when we go through disappointments
00:24:26.288 --> 00:24:27.389
Through disappointments and people do us
00:24:27.455 --> 00:24:28.156
And people do us wrong, it's easy
00:24:28.223 --> 00:24:29.491
Wrong, it's easy to lose that positive,
00:24:29.558 --> 00:24:30.926
To lose that positive, passionate person
00:24:30.992 --> 00:24:32.027
Passionate person that we used to be.
00:24:32.093 --> 00:24:33.528
In my new book,
00:24:33.628 --> 00:24:34.429
In my new book, rediscovering the forgotten
00:24:34.496 --> 00:24:36.131
Rediscovering the forgotten you, i'll help you
00:24:36.197 --> 00:24:37.332
You, i'll help you get back to who you really are.
00:24:37.399 --> 00:24:39.167
Get back to who you really are. the joyful you,
00:24:39.234 --> 00:24:40.201
The joyful you, the confident you,
00:24:40.268 --> 00:24:41.269
The confident you, the talented you.
00:24:41.336 --> 00:24:42.771
The talented you. it's not too late.
00:24:42.837 --> 00:24:44.039
It's not too late. you haven't been
00:24:44.105 --> 00:24:44.673
You haven't been through too much.
00:24:44.739 --> 00:24:45.874
Through too much. you may have lost
00:24:45.941 --> 00:24:46.641
You may have lost part of yourself,
00:24:46.708 --> 00:24:47.576
Part of yourself, but you can find yourself.
00:24:47.642 --> 00:24:49.578
But you can find yourself. god is in the business
00:24:49.644 --> 00:24:50.779
God is in the business of restoring what was lost.
00:24:50.845 --> 00:24:52.714
Of restoring what was lost. healing what was broken.
00:24:52.781 --> 00:24:54.215
Healing what was broken. you haven't seen the
00:24:54.282 --> 00:24:55.183
You haven't seen the best version of you yet.
00:24:55.250 --> 00:24:57.152
Best version of you yet. it's still in front of you.
00:24:57.218 --> 00:24:59.220
It's still in front of you. as our way of saying thank you
00:24:59.321 --> 00:25:00.855
As our way of saying thank you for your gift of any amount,
00:25:00.922 --> 00:25:02.591
For your gift of any amount, we would like to send you
00:25:02.657 --> 00:25:03.792
We would like to send you a copy of joel's
00:25:03.858 --> 00:25:04.826
A copy of joel's brand new book,
00:25:04.893 --> 00:25:06.027
Brand new book, rediscovering
00:25:06.094 --> 00:25:07.028
Rediscovering the forgotten you.
00:25:07.095 --> 00:25:08.496
The forgotten you. take back your passion,
00:25:08.563 --> 00:25:09.931
Take back your passion, reignite your dreams,
00:25:09.998 --> 00:25:11.433
Reignite your dreams, and embrace the life
00:25:11.499 --> 00:25:12.701
And embrace the life you were created to live.
00:25:12.767 --> 00:25:14.569
You were created to live. this book shares
00:25:14.636 --> 00:25:15.704
This book shares uplifting scripture
00:25:15.770 --> 00:25:17.005
And personal stories
00:25:17.105 --> 00:25:18.273
And personal stories that will help you
00:25:18.340 --> 00:25:19.007
That will help you release bitterness, silence,
00:25:19.074 --> 00:25:20.842
Release bitterness, silence, self-defeating
00:25:20.909 --> 00:25:21.610
Self-defeating thoughts, and embrace
00:25:21.676 --> 00:25:23.111
Thoughts, and embrace by faith
00:25:23.178 --> 00:25:23.979
By faith the vision of the life
00:25:24.045 --> 00:25:25.180
The vision of the life god designed for you.
00:25:25.246 --> 00:25:26.848
God designed for you. life's challenges
00:25:26.915 --> 00:25:27.983
Life's challenges might have distorted
00:25:28.049 --> 00:25:28.950
Might have distorted the true you,
00:25:29.017 --> 00:25:29.951
The true you, but now you can reclaim,
00:25:30.018 --> 00:25:31.620
But now you can reclaim, revitalize and restore
00:25:31.686 --> 00:25:33.455
Revitalize and restore the version of yourself
00:25:33.521 --> 00:25:34.756
The version of yourself that you once knew,
00:25:34.823 --> 00:25:36.157
That you once knew, or the version that you know
00:25:36.224 --> 00:25:37.559
Or the version that you know god has made you to be:
00:25:37.626 --> 00:25:39.461
God has made you to be: filled with hopes and dreams,
00:25:39.527 --> 00:25:41.296
Filled with hopes and dreams, optimism and confidence.
00:25:41.363 --> 00:25:43.131
Optimism and confidence. request your copy today
00:25:43.198 --> 00:25:44.799
Request your copy today and discover
00:25:44.866 --> 00:25:45.467
And discover the best version of you yet.
00:25:45.533 --> 00:25:47.902
God is about to breathe
00:25:48.003 --> 00:25:49.137
God is about to breathe new life, new passion,
00:25:49.204 --> 00:25:51.106
New life, new passion, new dreams into your heart.
00:25:51.172 --> 00:25:52.907
New dreams into your heart. what he started,
00:25:52.974 --> 00:25:53.842
What he started, he's going to finish.
00:25:53.908 --> 00:25:55.443
He's going to finish. thanks so much
00:25:55.510 --> 00:25:56.044
Thanks so much for being with us today.
00:25:56.111 --> 00:25:57.479
For being with us today. victoria and i are praying
00:25:57.545 --> 00:25:58.713
Victoria and i are praying for you and your family,
00:25:58.780 --> 00:25:59.948
For you and your family, for god's very best.
00:26:00.015 --> 00:26:01.750
For god's very best. thank you so much
00:26:01.816 --> 00:26:02.617
Thank you so much for your prayer and support.
00:26:02.684 --> 00:26:04.586
For your prayer and support. your generosity
00:26:04.653 --> 00:26:05.553
Your generosity helps people
00:26:05.620 --> 00:26:06.221
Helps people all over the world.
00:26:06.287 --> 00:26:07.722
All over the world. a special
00:26:07.789 --> 00:26:08.256
A special thank you to our champion
00:26:08.323 --> 00:26:09.524
Thank you to our champion of hope partners
00:26:09.591 --> 00:26:10.659
Of hope partners for all you do
00:26:10.725 --> 00:26:11.626
For all you do to make the ministry possible.
00:26:11.726 --> 00:26:13.461
To make the ministry possible. if you're not a partner,
00:26:13.528 --> 00:26:14.396
If you're not a partner, i hope you'll
00:26:14.462 --> 00:26:14.896
I hope you'll consider becoming one.
00:26:14.963 --> 00:26:16.665
Consider becoming one. until we meet again,
00:26:16.731 --> 00:26:17.866
Until we meet again, may the lord bless
00:26:17.932 --> 00:26:18.833
May the lord bless you and keep you.
00:26:18.900 --> 00:26:20.869
You and keep you. be sure to request your copy
00:26:20.935 --> 00:26:22.637
Be sure to request your copy of rediscovering
00:26:22.704 --> 00:26:23.605
Of rediscovering the forgotten you,
00:26:23.672 --> 00:26:24.773
The forgotten you, available this month
00:26:24.839 --> 00:26:26.141
Available this month by simply visiting us
00:26:26.207 --> 00:26:27.442
By simply visiting us at joelosteen.com
00:26:27.509 --> 00:26:29.210
At joelosteen.com or call 888-567-joel.
00:26:29.277 --> 00:26:32.647
Or call 888-567-joel. you can also receive the god's
00:26:32.747 --> 00:26:34.516
You can also receive the god's got you rediscovery duo.
00:26:34.582 --> 00:26:36.651
Got you rediscovery duo. you will receive rediscovering
00:26:36.751 --> 00:26:38.486
You will receive rediscovering the forgotten
00:26:38.553 --> 00:26:39.120
The forgotten you and god's got you:
00:26:39.187 --> 00:26:41.189
You and god's got you: promises for overcoming fear.
00:26:41.256 --> 00:26:43.525
Promises for overcoming fear. it's the perfect combination
00:26:43.591 --> 00:26:45.126
It's the perfect combination to help you rekindle
00:26:45.193 --> 00:26:46.394
Your purpose
00:26:46.494 --> 00:26:47.562
While standing firm
00:26:47.662 --> 00:26:48.863
While standing firm in god's promises.
00:26:48.930 --> 00:26:50.231
In god's promises. in addition
00:26:50.298 --> 00:26:50.965
In addition to these two inspiration books,
00:26:51.032 --> 00:26:52.867
To these two inspiration books, you can also receive
00:26:52.934 --> 00:26:54.102
You can also receive the beautifully crafted
00:26:54.169 --> 00:26:55.403
The beautifully crafted csb thin line study bible
00:26:55.470 --> 00:26:57.672
Csb thin line study bible in camel suede soft
00:26:57.739 --> 00:26:59.107
In camel suede soft leather touch,
00:26:59.174 --> 00:27:00.008
Leather touch, an elegant bible
00:27:00.075 --> 00:27:01.276
An elegant bible that offers a rich, immersive
00:27:01.342 --> 00:27:03.011
That offers a rich, immersive study experience
00:27:03.078 --> 00:27:04.245
Study experience and brings
00:27:04.312 --> 00:27:04.913
And brings god's word
00:27:04.979 --> 00:27:05.680
God's word beautifully into your
00:27:05.747 --> 00:27:06.815
Beautifully into your everyday life.
00:27:06.881 --> 00:27:08.283
Everyday life. this collection
00:27:08.349 --> 00:27:09.117
This collection is more than encouragement.
00:27:09.184 --> 00:27:10.785
Is more than encouragement. it is a foundation
00:27:10.852 --> 00:27:11.953
It is a foundation for lasting renewal
00:27:12.020 --> 00:27:13.455
For lasting renewal rooted in god's word,
00:27:13.521 --> 00:27:15.056
Rooted in god's word, strengthened by faith,
00:27:15.123 --> 00:27:16.558
Strengthened by faith, and anchored in his promises.
00:27:16.624 --> 00:27:18.760
And anchored in his promises. you can request
00:27:18.827 --> 00:27:19.627
You can request for inspiring resources
00:27:19.694 --> 00:27:21.396
For inspiring resources by calling 888-567-joel
00:27:21.463 --> 00:27:24.866
By calling 888-567-joel or logging on to joelosteen.com
00:27:24.933 --> 00:27:27.402
Or logging on to joelosteen.com today.
00:27:27.469 --> 00:27:28.203

Joel Osteen - It's Only A Test

April 4, 2026 | 27:29

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