The Two You's - Joel Osteen

About this sermon

How to stop giving in to temptation and conquer inner conflict. Discover biblical steps to build self discipline and break bad habits. In this transformative sermon, Joel Osteen addresses the internal struggle everyone faces between our disciplined, faith-filled nature and our carnal impulses. Drawing from the biblical stories of Peter denying Christ, David confronting Nabal, and Jacob becoming Israel, this message reveals how to stop feeding negative emotions, maintain self-control under pressure, and overcome persistent personal enemies. Discover practical strategies to keep old habits from ruining your potential and step into lasting spiritual growth at Lakewood Church. "You have to tell the flesh, you are not going to rule me." - Joel Osteen This message is for anyone battling persistent temptations, short tempers, or recurring bad habits that hold back personal growth. If you feel stuck repeating the same mistakes, struggling with anger, or failing to maintain discipline in your relationships and daily routines, this guidance offers actionable wisdom to regain control over your life. Q: How to stop giving in to temptation when I feel weak? A: Joel teaches that temptation loses its power when you stop feeding it. By practicing daily discipline and relying on God's strength, you can starve negative impulses and build lasting self-control. Q: Why do I keep repeating the same mistakes over and over? A: Joel explains that recurring mistakes happen because we feed the old nature through compromise. Consistently choosing the right path when it is uncomfortable weakens those negative patterns over time. Q: What does the Bible say about controlling your temper? A: Joel highlights biblical principles showing that reacting in anger feeds the carnal nature. True strength is demonstrated by walking away from provocation and allowing God to refine your character. Q: How to trust God when struggling with bad habits? A: Joel teaches that God provides both the desire and the power to overcome strongholds. Recognizing that divine grace is greater than any bad habit allows you to step into freedom gradually. Q: What is the meaning of Jacob and Israel in the Bible? A: Joel explains that Jacob represents our old nature of compromise, while Israel represents our redeemed identity. The story illustrates our lifelong journey of choosing spiritual growth over past mistakes. Romans 8:13. What it means to overcome carnal desires through the Spirit. Philippians 2:13. How God gives you power to overcome temptation. Genesis 32:28. The biblical meaning of transforming from Jacob to Israel. 00:00 Understanding the Battle Between Your Two Natures 02:30 The Difference Between the Flesh and the Spirit 03:41 Peter Denying Jesus and the Inner Conflict 05:22 How to Stop Giving In to Temptation 08:36 How to Break Bad Habits and Stop Feeding Temptation 09:44 David and Nabal Meaning on Overcoming Bitterness 14:03 Defeating Personal Enemies and Secret Struggles 18:06 Dealing with Persistent Temptations and Longterm Struggles 20:39 Genesis 32 Meaning of Jacob Becoming Israel 24:05 How God Refines Character on the Threshing Floor 26:28 Prayer to Receive Jesus as Your Savior If you are in need of prayer today, our ministry team would love to stand in faith with you. Reach out to us here: https://joelosteen.com/prayer Subscribe to receive weekly messages of hope, encouragement, and inspiration from Joel! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvxWyn4rfcI2H9APhfUIB1Q?sub_confirmation=1 Follow #JoelOsteen on social X: https://twitter.com/joelosteen Instagram: https://instagram.com/joelosteen Facebook: https://facebook.com/joelosteen TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joelosteen Thank you for your generosity! To give, visit https://joelosteen.com/give #JoelOsteen #SelfControl #OvercomingTemptation #SpiritualGrowth #Faith