Joel Osteen Tells Believers: 'Quit Being Against Yourself'

All too often people speak pessimistically about themselves, and in doing so, unintentionally invite negativity into their lives. But a new book by Lakewood megachurch Pastor Joel Osteen reminds readers that words have power, and aims to help people kick the habit of speaking negatively and to invite good things through the power of the tongue.

"You have to invite the right things into your life," Osteen tells viewers during a segment on "The Late Show with Stephen Colbert" Tuesday.

In his latest self-help title The Power of I Am, Osteen teaches readers how to create a narrative of positivity in their lives using the two words "I am," followed by positive affirmations. In the opening chapter, he writes, "What follows those two simple words will determine what kind of life you live."

The megachurch pastor's new book isn't just for Christians. "Anybody can read the book," says Osteen. "I've always tried to get outside of just the church world."

The pastor's inclusive message in the book is typical of his upbeat sermons, which often center on subjects like forgiveness, having a positive attitude, and reaching one's dreams —  themes contrary to religion that "pushes people down."

Dogmatic preaching that elicits guilt is often a reason why people don't go to church, the pastor says. His consistent message, however, is that "God is for you. … You don't have to live under the guilt of condemnation."

Osteen encourges believers and non-believers alike, "to not be against yourself." He says, "You're made in the image of God. He made every person a masterpiece. Quit being against yourself."

Joel and his wife, Victoria, are currently on tour for A Night of Hope, a multi-city event intended to uplift audiences through testimony, song, and sermon.

As previously reported by The Christian Post, Osteen was recently consulted by National Geographic for its upcoming six-part documentary series on God titled "The Story of God." The host of the docu-series, Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman, will carry viewers to seven countries and 20 cities where he'll delve into the religious beliefs and practices of several cultures.

Texas-based Lakewood Church is a non denominational Christian megachurch that averages over 45,000 weekly attendees, making it one of the largest church congregations in the U.S.