08/10/2015
Osteen (Your Best Life Now) offers a more detailed take on his popular message in his latest book. Where previously he followed his televised message closely—God is good, and he wants you to enjoy vibrant health and material abundance—this book focuses on each individual’s self-definition and the affirmations we make each day that define us. His fundamental assumption of self-determination is easily understood: “Whatever follows the ‘I am’ will eventually find you.” Speak defeat and discouragement, and you attract these to your life. But speak health and wholeness, and these will become realities for you. But Osteen goes beyond the usual prosperity gospel line: “God’s dream for your life is that you would be blessed in such a way that you could be a blessing to others.” Directing believers to look beyond their own needs and wants, Osteen advances his message to a higher plane, advocating a life of reaching out and sharing your blessings. (Oct.)
Christian self-improvement guru Joel Osteen has helped millions of people forge better lives through faith-based positive thinking in six New York Times bestselling books, but his latest may present his simplest, most powerful message yet: you can change your entire life for the better, and all it takes is two little words—I am.