Best Life Now

First and the most important teaching that Jesus says it about a million time is to love

In warning about the evils of greed, Jesus used a parable: “There was a rich man blessed with [fertile land.] He thought to himself, ‘What will I do? I have no place to keep all my crops.’ “Then he said, ‘I know what I will do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger barns! I will put all my good things together in my new barns. Then I can say…Rest, eat, drink, and enjoy life!’“But God said to that man, ‘Foolish man! Tonight you will die!... Who will get [your things] now?’ This is how it will be for anyone who saves things only for himself. To God that person is not rich.” (Luke 12:13 21)

Throughout time, there have been diverse religious beliefs that have been taken into account regarding Christianity and God. Although, many pastors have reflected their own beliefs on that matter, one pastor can stand out from the rest. The name is Joel Osteen who became a minister in 2006 in Houston, Texas. His primary focus differed than many others, as he did not focus on the sins or evils that this corrupt world overcomes society with. Instead, he decided to preach about the idea of positive thinking and self-improving. Basically, he believed that individuals in society should focus on themselves, as they take priority over the community as a whole. When individuals immerse themselves in a deep focus on finding their true self, God will

Osteen has not signed on to this agenda. In fact, he believes that is not what he is called to do as a pastor.

It is stated in the bible that “furthermore, it isn’t good to be ignorant, and whoever rushes into things misses the mark” (Proverbs 19:2). Stating that when humans rush a process, that does not need to be rushed, the end product will not be reached. Another statement from the bible adds “may integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for you” (Psalm 25:21). Integrity; doing the right thing when nobody is watching. Indicates that although no other human being might be around it is important to not deceive oneself. The core belief of the Christian worldview is “faith working though love” (Galatians 5:6). Which can be influence this scenario by having love for one another and wanting the best for those around.

Lord willing, these students then become Checking-Things-Out students, desiring and attentive to spiritual conversations and experiences. In these relationships, it is imperative to dig deeper, to answer questions, and to expose students to the gospel through lifestyle or stories of real faith. This open and attentive nature leads to the gospel message falling on good soil and, prayerfully, results in belief and commitment to Jesus Christ.

Christian teaching on wealth and possessions varies slightly regarding the amount of money and possessions that should be given to the poor. Some Christians follow the teaching in (Mark

As a Christian what I have observed in my school and in my generation is that youth do not understand what it is to be a Christian and disciple of Christ. There are those who do not have a personal relationship with Christ nor understand what being a true Christian. Then there are those who claim to be Christians but continue to live their lives with the rest of the world. And at last those who have truly dedicated their lives to Christ and have a personal relationship with Him. In 2008 I started my own organization to encourage teens to have a daily prayer life and personal relationship with Christ. I saw this need in my school and I decided to do something about it. The scripture that I use for my organization

The thought of a holy place where loyal and devout followers of Christ can finally be with their Lord is the main goal for Christianity. This location, known as “Heaven,” is said to be the home of angels and the King of Kings. Other terms for this include The Pearly Gates, Kingdom Come, Paradise, and the Promised Lands. Basically, Heaven is the ideal place for people of Christian faith to end up. However, Edwards strongly notes that it is most likely not going to be the final destination for most people, believers and nonbelievers alike. One can not talk about Heaven without also mentioning the concept of “Hell.” Hell is, in a basic sense, where the sinners go. To sin is to perform an action, either physical or mental, that disobeys God and his rules (referencing to the 10 Commandments). Edwards goes on to explain how, “Your wickedness makes you as it were heavy as lead, and to tend downwards with great weight and pressure towards Hell; and if God should let you go, you would immediately sink and swiftly descend and plunge into the bottomless gulf....(page 88)” This is the first form of persuasion that we see within this text--the art of coaxing everyone into believing no one will make it to Heaven because everyone is a

He was unable to protect his brother, unable to form healthy relationships with peers, and unable to confront his father. He believes that a good person attends Bible camp, Bible study, and Sunday school, but he still ponders, “ What does God want me to do?” He hears conflicting messages from church officials, community leaders, and his parents. In church, the Pastor indicates, “ That God’s people are rewarded for faith and good acts.”

In “Does God Want You to Be Rich?” David Van Biema and Jeff Chu claim that modern day Christian pastors are using “prosperity teaching” to convince their followers that God’s wishes them to be financially well, not only in heaven but also on earth. The bible doesn’t specifically tell us about our monetary status on earth. So, pastors are preaching that if you give more than the 10% of their earnings back, then God will bless you with extra money. Even though there is no way to back up that God wanted that for his followers. People are just assuming that by giving their extra money to the church, they will be financially blessed. Therefore, Van Biema and Chu are declaring that there are no way to ensure that to the followers.

There are all sorts of variations around this theme of being too poor to help. Most of us have had times in our lives when money was tight, and giving to the Lord was difficult and a real sacrifice. Invariably though, we can find enough for some of the other things that are not essential—it’s usually a matter of priority and whether we value what the Lord has done for us enough to make giving work.

I have never viewed Hell as a place for punishment. I believe God is a faithful and forgiving God, even if you had to be sent to Hell. God knows the temptations of devil; therefore, he does not wholeheartedly blame you for your wrongdoing. Plus, as a sinner, you have

Strong leadership is vital to the success of any business, institution, school, team, or even church. Leaders that are considered effective encompass a leadership style and qualities that work to influence and motivate their followers. Joel Osteen, an evangelical pastor from Houston, Texas is truly one of the 21st centuries most captivating leaders. So much so, that he as selected by Barbara Walters as one of her 10 Most Fascinating People of 2016 (ABC News, 2006). His appeal is a phenomenon that is unmatched by any other current leaders in his profession. Over the past 15 years he has built a church, where he ministers one of the largest and most diverse congregations in America (Romano, 2005). Aside from his 45,000 attendees at his weekly services, his sermon is broadcasted in every television market in the United States and in over 100 other nations around the world (“About Joel,” n.d.). Joel Osteen is a prime example of a compelling leader who practices an effective leadership style that resonates with people on a personal level.

Every Christian should be bold and confident enough to share the Word of God with strangers, neighbors, family, and friends. Be a vessel that God’s “living water” can flow