Overview of Praying Bold Prayers | Joel Osteen
Joel Osteen teaches on the difference between "get-by" prayers and "bold" prayers. He encourages listeners to stretch their faith, ask God for big, specific breakthroughs (not merely to survive), and to pursue dreams that cannot be achieved by natural effort alone. The message is illustrated with multiple stories and Scripture references, and closes with an invitation to faith and information about Joel’s book and ministry resources.
Key points / Main takeaways
- Pray boldly, not merely to “get by.” Small requests produce small results; large, faith-stretching requests invite greater divine intervention.
- God is eager to respond when we trust Him for things beyond our natural ability; faith activates God’s favor, opens doors, and involves angels.
- Asking boldly is not selfish when your increase is intended to bless others and advance God’s purposes.
- Limiting beliefs and conditioned expectations (asking for C when you could ask for A) hold people back more than God’s power does.
- God sometimes confirms and directs through dreams, unexpected encounters, and supernatural provision.
Stories & illustrations Joel uses (and their lessons)
- Two blind men (Matthew 20): Jesus asked, “What do you want me to do for you?” — the point: be specific and bold about what you believe God can do.
- College student who prayed for a C but was encouraged to pray for an A — she studied, stretched her faith, and made an A.
- Young man from an East African slum: persistent prayer and faith led to meeting a benefactor (Mr. Stanley), education in the U.S., and eventual national leadership — demonstrates how bold faith can change destiny.
- Mother who prayed her rebellious son would be used by God; he became a pastor helping addicts — shows long-term faith for others’ transformation.
- Elisha asking for a “double portion” of Elijah’s spirit (2 Kings traditions): model of asking for more than what seems reasonable.
- Small boy praying for a dead goldfish that recovered — illustrates childlike faith and that God is not limited by logic.
- Asian inventor whose prayer preceded an unexpected stock-market rise and funding — an example of supernatural favor in business.
- Casey the mover who prayed for a chain — the chain appearing on the road demonstrates God’s practical provision.
- Joel’s mother surviving a terminal cancer diagnosis after decades — used as testimony to powerful, persistent prayer.
Practical action steps / How to apply this message
- Stop praying only “get-by” prayers. Be specific: instead of “help me pay bills,” pray for abundance so you can bless others.
- Identify one “hidden dream” (business, marriage, mission trip, education, ministry) and begin praying boldly for it daily.
- Write down exact requests and the outcome you believe God for — a clear ask focuses faith.
- Do your part: combine bold prayer with practical preparation (study, work, relationship-building).
- Pray with expectancy and persist despite doubt or ridicule from others.
- Use your blessings purposefully: ask for increase so you can serve and bless others.
Notable quotes / Memorable lines
- “If you ask small, you're going to receive small.”
- “Open your mouth wide and I will fill it.” (Scripture paraphrase used as principle)
- “Stop asking for a C and start asking for an A.”
- “When you ask, your faith causes the creator of the universe to respond.”
- “You have not because you ask not.”
Scriptures referenced (as used in the talk)
- Matthew 20 (the two blind men by Jericho)
- Psalm reference paraphrase: “Open your mouth wide and I will fill it.”
- General biblical examples: Elijah/Elisha account (requesting a double portion)
Closing invitation & ministry offers
- Invitation to accept Jesus: a short salvation prayer (“Lord Jesus, I repent of my sins…”) and encouragement to join a Bible-based church.
- Resources offered:
- Joel Osteen’s book: No More Fear — You Have the Mind of Christ (gift for donations).
- God’s Word Work Study Collection: parallel NIV/Message Bible, No More Fear devotional, How to Read Your Bible and Enjoy It, plus a leather bookmark and pen.
- How to request resources or give: visit joelostein.com or call 888-567-JOEL (as stated in the message).
Final summary in one line
Pray beyond survival-mode requests — ask boldly, expect God’s supernatural favor, prepare practically, and use your increase to bless others; when you stretch your faith, God moves in extraordinary ways.