Podcast Summary: Joel Osteen Podcast – "God Is A Rewarder"

Episode Details:

• Title: God Is A Rewarder
• Host: Joel Osteen
• Release Date: July 17, 2025
• Platform: SiriusXM

Introduction to the Message

In this inspiring episode titled "God Is A Rewarder," Joel Osteen delves into the profound truth that God rewards those who diligently seek Him. Drawing from personal experiences, biblical scriptures, and real-life testimonies, Joel emphasizes the importance of prioritizing God in every aspect of life to experience divine blessings and rewards.

Understanding God as a Rewarder

Joel begins by referencing Hebrews 11:6, stating, “God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him” [05:30]. He contrasts true seekers of God with those who seek Him only during challenging times or special occasions, highlighting that consistent and heartfelt seeking is what garners divine rewards.

Key Points:

• Diligent Seeking: Regularly engaging in prayer, meditation, and church attendance.
• Heartfelt Pursuit: Genuine intention to honor and please God beyond mere obligation.
• Divine Rewards: Strength, wisdom, favor, healing, and restoration are promised to believers who earnestly seek God.

Personal Anecdotes Illustrating Faith

Joel shares touching personal stories that encapsulate the essence of seeking God diligently:

1. Father’s Journey of Faith:

   • Joel recounts his father's transformation at age 17 when he became the first in his family to give his life to Christ. Despite lacking formal theological education, his father's unwavering desire to please God led him to minister in challenging environments like prisons and senior homes [12:15].
   • Quote: “God hasn’t blessed me because I’m the smartest, the most qualified, the most talented. God has blessed me because I’ve made it a goal to seek Him, to honor Him, to please Him.” [18:45]

2. The Rabbit Story:

   • Joel narrates a humorous yet insightful incident about catching a stubborn rabbit. Initially frustrated after multiple failed attempts, he decided to pray for divine intervention. Miraculously, his prayer was answered when the rabbit froze, allowing him to capture it effortlessly [22:10].
   • Quote: “When I prayed and acknowledged God in all my ways, God responded by making that rabbit still, demonstrating His control over every situation.” [22:50]

Real-Life Testimonies of Reward

Joel shares an inspiring story about a couple from Mississippi struggling in the oil business. Facing potential bankruptcy and marital strain, they began attending Joel's services weekly, traveling significant distances to do so [16:30]. Their steadfast faith and dedication paid off when, after numerous unsuccessful drilling attempts, they finally struck oil on their 48th try. This breakthrough not only saved their business but also transformed them into greater blessings for others [19:05].

Key Lessons:

• Perseverance in Faith: Continual seeking and trusting God despite prolonged challenges.
• Divine Timing: God's rewards may come after extended periods of effort and patience.
• Transformation through Trials: Difficulties can lead to greater blessings and opportunities to bless others.

Principles for Diligently Seeking God

Joel outlines practical steps to diligently seek God, ensuring listeners can apply these principles in their daily lives:

1. Prioritize God Daily:

   • Start each day by thanking God and asking for His guidance.
   • Quote: “Every morning I still get up and take the first half hour of the day to thank God for His goodness, to acknowledge Him as my Savior, to ask Him for wisdom.” [25:20]

2. Consistent Bible Study and Meditation:

   • Engage with scriptures regularly, even if full comprehension isn’t immediate.
   • Joel admits, “Every day I would read a chapter in my Bible. Didn’t always understand it. Still don’t.” [17:30]

3. Active Praise in All Circumstances:

   • Offer praise and gratitude during both good and challenging times.
   • Quote: “When you diligently seek God, He promises a reward is coming.” [10:45]

4. Acknowledge God in Every Aspect:

   • Incorporate prayers and acknowledgments into daily routines, from mundane tasks to significant decisions.
   • Example: Praying for assistance in everyday situations like finding a parking spot or making crucial business decisions [28:15].

The Importance of Seeking the Blesor Over Blessings

Joel emphasizes the distinction between seeking blessings and seeking the Blesor (God Himself):

• Seek the Blesor: Focus on honoring and pleasing God, making Him the central priority in life.
• Receive Blessings: God promises that when believers prioritize Him, blessings will naturally follow without the need for overexertion or manipulation.

Scriptural Reference: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” [Matthew 6:33] [24:50]

Key Takeaway: By focusing on God rather than solely chasing after material or superficial blessings, believers open themselves to abundant and meaningful rewards that surpass worldly achievements.

Practical Application and Encouragement

Joel challenges listeners to adopt the following habits to align themselves with God's promises:

• Make Seeking God a Vital Necessity:

  • Just as life-sustaining activities like eating are non-negotiable, spending time with God should be paramount.
  • Personal Example: Joel discusses his father's commitment to dialysis as a parallel to prioritizing spiritual nourishment [27:00].

• Develop a Routine of Acknowledgment:

  • Integrate prayers and acknowledgments seamlessly into daily activities, ensuring that every moment is an opportunity to honor God.
  • Quote: “When you seek Him, He rewards you.” [29:10]

• Embrace Humility and Dependency:

  • Recognize that acknowledging reliance on God fosters a deeper connection and opens the door for divine intervention.
  • Scriptural Insight: “Proverbs 22:4 says, the reward of true humility and fear of the Lord is wealth, honor, and a long life.” [28:45]

Closing Exhortation and Call to Action

In concluding the episode, Joel reaffirms the certainty of God's rewards for those who diligently seek Him. He urges listeners to:

• Commit to Honoring God First: Make a conscious decision to prioritize God in all facets of life.
• Engage in Daily Spiritual Practices: Maintain consistent prayer, Bible study, and meditation.
• Trust in God's Timing and Provision: Believe that God’s rewards are already in place, awaiting believers' faithful pursuit.

Final Quote: “When you diligently seek God, He promises a reward is coming. Get ready for God's goodness.” [29:55]

Joel also invites listeners to deepen their faith through his books and encourages participation in church communities, reinforcing the message that Unity in faith leads to shared blessings.

Conclusion

"God Is A Rewarder" serves as a powerful reminder of the blessings that await those who earnestly seek and prioritize God in their lives. Through personal stories, biblical references, and practical advice, Joel Osteen inspires listeners to embark on a journey of faith that promises not only divine rewards but also a transformed and fulfilling life.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• “God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” – Joel Osteen [05:30]
• “God hasn’t blessed me because I’m the smartest, the most qualified, the most talented. God has blessed me because I’ve made it a goal to seek Him, to honor Him, to please Him.” – Joel Osteen [18:45]
• “When I prayed and acknowledged God in all my ways, God responded by making that rabbit still, demonstrating His control over every situation.” – Joel Osteen [22:50]
• “Every morning I still get up and take the first half hour of the day to thank God for His goodness, to acknowledge Him as my Savior, to ask Him for wisdom.” – Joel Osteen [25:20]
• “When you diligently seek God, He promises a reward is coming.” – Joel Osteen [29:10]
• “When you diligently seek God, He promises a reward is coming. Get ready for God's goodness.” – Joel Osteen [29:55]