GOSPEL CORNER: GOD BLESSES THOSE WHO PATIENTLY ENDURE TESTING AND TEMPTATION. AFTERWARD THEY WILL RECEIVE THE CROWN OF LIFE THAT GOD HAS PROMISED TO THOSE WHO LOVE HIM.James 1:12, NLT

11/01/23

JOEL OSTEEN MINISTRIES
TODAY’S WORD

Today’s Scripture
God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him.
James 1:12, NLT

UNDER PRESSURE
We all face situations where things aren’t going our way, someone’s not treating us right. It’s easy to get upset, live frustrated, wonder why it’s not changing. But much of what we face in life is a test. You don’t really know what’s in you until you’re put under pressure. It’s easy to have a good attitude when people are being good to you and doors are opening. But how about when it’s just the opposite?

On the night before Jesus was crucified, Peter told Him, “I will lay down my life for You.” Peter’s heart was right, and that statement was easy to make in the atmosphere of faith at the Passover meal. But when the heat was turned up and he was confronted about being Jesus’ disciple during His trial, Peter denied he knew Jesus three times. The pressure brings to light weaknesses in our character. If we’re willing to change, to make adjustments, to start passing those tests, God will trust us with more of His favor as He did Peter. God doesn’t give up on us when we fail.

A Prayer for Today
“Father, thank You that You are using the pressure of challenges and temptations to make me stronger and grow me up. Thank You that every test of my faith is preparing me to overcome and persevere, to go higher and increase. I believe that I am coming out better. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

The Bible tells us that God has made us “accepted in the Beloved.” The Beloved here refers to Jesus and the word “accepted” means “given special honor” or “highly favored.”

My friend, because you have Jesus who is God’s Beloved, and you are found in Him, you are also God’s beloved son or daughter, deeply loved and highly favored by Him!

Now, because you are highly favored by God in the Beloved, you can expect to have favor with your spouse, children, colleagues, clients, and yes, even your in-laws! When you speak, people listen. When you step into a room, it lights up. Everything you touch is blessed and increased.

Beloved, as the apple of God’s eye, expect good things to happen to you each day. Expect divine protection because His favor surrounds you like a shield. Expect every need to be met by the One who highly favors you. Expect good, because you are precious in His eyes!