Hello everyone,

I was watching Joel Osteen today on 4/8/07 and I felt his message was really meaningful. They always are, but it made me think about those who are incarcerated. He spoke about how if you're still alive, then it means God wants you alive for a purpose. Pastor Osteen was saying there are so many people who have been beaten down by life, who feel they have failed, who feel there's nothing left for them. It made me think of our loved ones who are locked up--how they are ashamed, embarassed, deeply depressed, and sometimes can't even face their loved ones because of what they're feeling. And yet, God still loves them and has a purpose for them, a plan of success and peace. So, I hope those of you with loved ones incarcerated will continue to pray for them, to encourage them, and to remind them that God can truly create beauty from ashes. I hope this message is encouraging and uplifting---especially to those locked up who have given up on themselves. God does not give up on us and we should never give up on our loved ones.

*EDIT* This is the good post. The other ones are accidently posted again. My computer spazzed out or I pressed the wrong button. Those threads can be deleted. Sorry for that and thank you.*

That is the truth. GOD has a plan for all of us.

Thank you for posting that. I think I should send that to Rico.

I love to hear the words of God and Pastor Joel is a wonderful man of God whom God uses to speak through to us. He is a wonderful instrument for the Lord our God.


Great message of inspiration!

Thanks for posting this thread!

Your very welcome!

Definitely send it to your loved ones. I think it will really lift their spirits and encourage them. Pastor Joel is a truly amazing servant for the Lord and when I heard that message, I thought it'd be totally perfect for thoe who are incarcerated. It can go for anyone who feels really down on themselves, but when it comes to those locked up--they are shunned and looked down upon a lot. They are still people that Jesus Christ loves and holds in the palm of His hand. They are still His children no matter what. And they need to know that and believe it in their hearts, minds, and souls.

Thank you for posting that. I have printed it to send to my husband. He is questioning God's plan for him and I hope this will help him.

hi,
so very true!i will send this to my son.he do get depressed a lot.he tell me he is stressed out,but i always thought a child cant be stressed out(even when he is not lock up).i will read it it myself & try to keep in mind.i still have 3yrs or so to go b4 my son is out.i try to encourage him & i tell him to pray & believe in god.i know its hard on us,but we will survive this with god ...
thanks

I am always encouraged and uplifted by Joel and Victoria. I just got the his book, "Your best life Now". I can just hear his voice talking through these pages as I read. I try to look at every setback as a turning point for something good to come along.

Oh my gosh! I haven't been in this thread in several weeks. Then I came back and saw the replies. I'm so thrilled that posters have printed this out and sent it to their loved ones. It's such a beautiful and encouraging message that Pastor Joel shared. He really allows himself to be an instrument for God. It's amazing. So please--share with whoever you know--incarcerated or not. It's an uplifting message!

Guvokikam, I haven't read his book "Your Best Life Now." My twin bro has and he said it's really good. I agree with you that every setback can be a turning point for something positive. Sometimes it's how we perceive our situations--a lot of the times actually. Things that are a setback now can help us to grow...it all depends on what we do with life's trials and tribulations.

My son watches Pastor Joel faithfully from the comfort of his cell. Since he told me about him, I have gone to his website & signed up for a daily word which I receive through email. I then print them off & send to my son. He really enjoys receiving them. He finds a lot of encouragement & comfort in Pastor Joels words.

Wishing you all the best.
Jnks

Check out his daily devotional also. His words are always so inspiring and uplifting, yet with a humble spirit. I believe he is coming out with a new book also.

Hello,
I listen to Pastor Joel Olsteen every sunday and alot of times I feel like the message that he is speaking is just for me. He is wonderful. A angel from heaven.