When people leave you out, it may be hurtful but it doesn’t stop your purpose.

Gospel Corner

29/07/25

Joel Osteen Ministries

Today’s Word
Today’s Scripture
Jesse had seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel said to him, “The LORD has not chosen these.”
1 Samuel 16:10, NIV

You’re Already Counted In
When the prophet Samuel came to Jesse’s house to pick out one of his sons as the next king of Israel, Jesse lined up seven of his sons and said, “All right, Samuel, take your pick.” He hadn’t bothered to bring his youngest son, David, in from the shepherds’ fields. He had already ruled David out, thinking, “He’s too small, too young, not talented. He’s not king material.” This would have been a problem if people have the final say. But when people leave you out, it may be hurtful but it doesn’t stop your purpose. People may have counted you out, but don’t worry. God has already counted you in. He overrides what people say. He overrides the injustice. Samuel said, “Jesse, I don’t see the king in these seven sons. Do you have any other sons?” Like with David, you’re going to be called into the house and be anointed. God hasn’t forgotten about you. Stay in peace, keep doing the right thing, and what He promised you will come to you. God has the final say.

A Prayer for Today
“Father, thank You that no matter what others may be saying about my life, You have the final say. Thank You that I can stay in peace, keep doing what’s right, and choose to not dwell on negative reports. I believe that all that You promised is going to come to me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

SECTION TWO

There is truly no other god who can rescue like our God. Whatever circumstances you might be thrown into, our Lord Jesus is the fourth man with you in the midst of the fire. Notice how He didn’t stand outside of the fire, but was in the fire together with the three friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego.

This brings a whole new meaning for us when we read the verse, “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you” (Deut. 31:6, boldface mine).

Our Lord doesn’t deliver you from afar; He is with you in the midst of your adversity. Call upon Him and He will answer you. When Jesus is with you, nothing can harm you!

Don’t you just love how the Word of God describes the three friends when they came out of the furnace? They were in the fire, but it had absolutely no power over them. It did not even leave a trace of smoke on them! Now, that’s a beautiful picture of God’s divine protection!

Beloved, as you call upon the Lord in your day of trouble, my prayer for you is that the trial you are going through will have no power over you; it will not even leave a smell on you.

Instead, I declare in Jesus’ name that you will walk out of that challenge in your life and the only smell on you will be the fragrance of the Lord Jesus (2 Cor. 2:14)! And as the people around you witness how the Lord delivers you, may they come to know His wonderful name and give Him praise.

Instead of being negatively affected by whatever trial you might face, I pray that you will receive honor and promotion just like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego. Amen!