Televangelist Joel Osteen recently faced significant backlash after tweeting about the importance of appreciating “the simple things in life.” Osteen’s tweet encouraged people to find joy in family, health, and nature, even if they lack material resources. However, critics were quick to highlight the perceived hypocrisy given Osteen’s substantial wealth, which includes multimillion-dollar homes and luxury cars.
Many social media users mocked Osteen, suggesting that his lavish lifestyle made him an inappropriate spokesperson for such a message. Comments ranged from sarcastic remarks about his mansions and luxury vehicles to reminders of past controversies, such as his church’s delayed response to sheltering Hurricane Harvey victims. The backlash also reignited discussions about the ethics of Osteen’s wealth, particularly in light of his church’s substantial donations and budget.