In his series, Looking Up When Life’s Got You Down, Dr. Michael Youssef explains that we do not have to become disillusioned with life because God has a tremendous plan in mind for our lives. He can turn even the most difficult circumstances into places of blessing. Using the life of the Apostle Paul as a framework for the series, Dr. Youssef reminds us that the God of all comfort will meet every need we have.

In Turning Oppression Into Opportunity, Dr. Michael Youssef exposes the destructive power of false criticism and shows how the Apostle Paul transformed it into a platform for proclaiming Christ. Preaching from Acts 21–22, Dr. Youssef reveals five Biblical principles for responding to slander with grace, truth, and courage. Paul faced lies, mob violence, and public humiliation—but instead of defending himself, he used the moment to lift high the Name of Jesus. He saw God’s hand in every hardship, spoke with respect to his persecutors, and maintained a selfless love rooted in his devotion to Christ. This message calls every believer to stop reacting in the flesh and start interceding, testifying, and glorifying God even in the fire.