"; if(is_file("header.php")) include "header.php"; else include "../header.php"; ?>

A book for positive thinking Though Joel Osteen is a minister, you will find little about Christ in this book. He references some bible passages, but if you take the time to look up the passage in the bible, you'll find yourself thinking, "How in the world did he make THAT illogical leap?" He hasn't gone to seminary, and his understand about Christ isn't that deep. He has a good personal feel-good relationship with God, but does not have the background and depth that can convey to others much about Christ other than that Christ is a swell guy. Seminaries exist for a reason! However, Mr. Osteen is a great motivational speaker. If Joel Osteen had just written a motivational self-help book, I'm sure it would have been fine. However, if you aren't a Christian, you'll find his biblical references annoying. If you are a Christian, you'll find his biblical references irrelevant. If you are interested in a peace and prosperity message you will really like this book. If you are trying to draw near to Christ, don't bother. You won't find Christ here. He has found a niche market and is exploiting it for all its worth. The premise of this book is that if you follow Christ, you will be rewarded - with bling. Joel interprets that to being rewarded with the a good job, nice cars, and a good bank account. It's easy to make the assumption that if you are unemployed or sick, it's your fault for not believing in Christ. Or if you are poor and you do believe in Christ, suck it up because that's what God wants for you, but pray harder and you'll get what you want. Obtain a book that has more of a Christian message, or get a true self-help book. If you just need a pep talk with no depth, this is the book for you.