Podcast Title: Be An Example | Joel Osteen
Host: Joel Osteen, SiriusXM
Release Date: March 21, 2025
Introduction
In the "Be An Example" episode of the Joel Osteen Podcast, Joel Osteen delves into the profound impact of personal behavior and attitude as a form of ministry. Emphasizing that everyone has a ministry regardless of their formal role, Osteen encourages listeners to use their daily lives as platforms to inspire and uplift others. The episode underscores the importance of actions speaking louder than words and highlights practical ways to embody positivity and kindness in everyday interactions.
Key Themes and Discussions
1. Your Life as a Ministry
Joel Osteen begins by asserting that every individual possesses a ministry, regardless of whether they serve in a traditional religious capacity. He explains that one's "pulpit" is their life, and how they live, respond to challenges, and interact with others forms a powerful testimony.
Notable Quote:
"Your pulpit is your life. People are watching how you live, how you respond to adversity, how consistent you are, and how you treat people around you."
(Timestamp: 06:45)
2. Actions Over Words
Osteen emphasizes that actions have a more significant impact than spoken words. By embodying qualities like joy, peace, kindness, and generosity, individuals can naturally attract others and inspire them without the need for verbal preaching.
Notable Quote:
"Our actions speak louder than our words. We are called to be the light of the world. We're supposed to be the salt of the earth."
(Timestamp: 09:30)
3. The Power of a Positive Attitude
Maintaining a positive attitude, especially in environments filled with negativity, can be transformative. Osteen compares individuals to thermometers and thermostats—encouraging listeners to be the thermostat that sets a positive tone rather than the thermometer that merely reflects the surrounding negativity.
Notable Quote:
"You can either be a thermometer or you can be a thermostat. A thermostat changes the temperature in the room."
(Timestamp: 22:15)
4. Impact of Simple Gestures
Simple acts like smiling, being friendly, and expressing gratitude can have a profound effect on others. Osteen shares personal anecdotes illustrating how these small gestures have opened doors to meaningful connections and even life-changing moments.
Notable Quote:
"Sometimes, when you smile a lot, people get suspicious of you. They look at you like, 'What's wrong with him?' But my attitude is, make them suspicious. I smile at everybody."
(Timestamp: 25:50)
5. Overcoming Challenges with Grace
Acknowledging that everyone faces difficulties, Osteen encourages handling adversity with grace and maintaining a demeanor that reflects inner strength and faith. By doing so, individuals not only uplift themselves but also inspire those around them.
Notable Quote:
"We all have challenges. We can all find a reason to be unhappy, but we don't have a right to be unhappy."
(Timestamp: 17:20)
6. Representing God Through Behavior
As ambassadors of Christ, Osteen stresses the responsibility to represent God through one's actions. He highlights that people may not see God directly, but they see the individual representing Him, making it essential to embody attributes that reflect God's love and compassion.
Notable Quote:
"The Scripture says here in 2nd Corinthians 5, verse 20, we are ambassadors of Christ, God's personal representatives on the earth."
(Timestamp: 12:10)
7. Living with Integrity and Excellence
Living with integrity, excellence, and consistency reinforces one's testimony and makes a lasting impression on others. Osteen shares stories of how maintaining these traits has led to unexpected opportunities and positive changes in both his life and the lives of others.
Notable Quote:
"You have to live your life consistently happy, consistently friendly, consistently in a good mood. Let your actions do the talking."
(Timestamp: 27:30)
Practical Applications
-
Smile and Greet Others: Start each day with a smile, whether at work, in the grocery store, or anywhere you interact with others. A simple greeting can brighten someone's day and create a positive environment.
-
Maintain a Positive Attitude: Even in challenging situations, strive to focus on the positive aspects. This shift in perspective can influence those around you and foster a more uplifting atmosphere.
-
Be Kind and Generous: Small acts of kindness, such as offering a compliment or helping someone in need, can have a significant impact on others and reinforce your role as a positive influence.
-
Consistent Behavior: Consistency in your actions and demeanor builds trust and reliability, making others more likely to seek your guidance and support.
-
Avoid Negativity: Refrain from engaging in negative conversations or behaviors. Instead, lead by example by adopting a solution-oriented and optimistic approach.
Conclusion
Joel Osteen's "Be An Example" episode serves as a powerful reminder that each person's life is a unique ministry. By embodying positivity, kindness, and integrity, individuals can inspire and uplift others without uttering a single word. Osteen's message encourages listeners to view their daily interactions as opportunities to reflect God's love and make a meaningful impact in the world.
Additional Resources Mentioned
- Joel’s Website: joelosteen.com
- Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+: Listen to new episodes ad-free and a week early. Start a free trial on Apple Podcasts or visit siriusxm.com/podcastsplus.
- Book Promotion: "The Abundance Mindset" – Learn to shift your mental picture to experience blessings and abundance.
Final Thoughts
"Be An Example" is not just a sermon but a call to action for listeners to integrate faith into every aspect of their lives. Joel Osteen's insights provide practical steps to living a life that not only fulfills personal dreams but also serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement to others. By following his guidance, individuals can cultivate a life of abundance, joy, and positive influence.