Joel Osteen Devotional 7 April 2020 – Amaze the Critics
Topic: Amaze the Critics
Scripture: When Isaac planted his crops that year, he harvested a hundred times more grain than he planted, for the LORD blessed him. – Genesis 26:12, NLT
Message: During a great famine in the land, Isaac was about to move to Egypt, but God said, “Stay where you are. My favor is on you right here among the Philistines.” So despite the famine, Isaac planted his grain fields. The Philistines were already jealous of him, and his planting in dry, hard soil added to their ridicule of him. But Isaac stayed in peace. Several months later, his critics were amazed to see his hundredfold harvest.
At some point, you may be tempted to run from a situation where you face ridicule and opposition, but you do not have to leave in order to be blessed. God wants to bless you right where you are. Part of His vindication is promoting you so the opposition can see it. Your attitude should be: “They may be laughing now, but this challenge is preparing the way for God to promote me!” God is faithful. In the end, you will have the last laugh.
A Prayer for Today
“Father, thank You for the promise to bless me right where I am, even when I face opposition and ridicule. I believe that You will multiply me even in the midst of famine. I receive Your peace and rest knowing that You are faithful and will bring blessing. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”