Elevation with Steven Furtick – Episode: "A Recipe For Resentment" Release Date: March 16, 2025

Introduction

In this transformative episode of Elevation with Steven Furtick, Pastor Steven delves deep into the dynamics of expectation, responsibility, and grace, using the timeless biblical narrative of Martha and Mary as a foundation. Titled "A Recipe For Resentment," the episode challenges listeners to evaluate the lists they live by and how these lists can lead to feelings of overwhelm and resentment when not balanced with divine grace.

Opening Scripture: Luke 10:38-42

Steven begins by revisiting the story of Martha and Mary from Luke 10:38-42. He emphasizes Martha's busyness and Mary's devotion, setting the stage for a discussion on how our expectations can lead to resentment if not tempered with grace.

Steven Furtick [03:15]: "Your expectations plus others limitations, minus grace is a recipe for resentment."

Personal Anecdote: The Restaurant Experience

Steven shares a personal story about accompanying his executive pastor, Chunks Corbett, to a restaurant in Nashville. The experience highlights how unmet expectations—waiting for a host that never arrives—can build frustration and resentment.

Steven Furtick [07:45]: "We expect that someone will come seat us. Two minutes pass. Nobody says hello. Three minutes, four minutes... Five minutes have passed and it feels like five hours."

This anecdote serves as a metaphor for how unmet expectations in our daily lives can escalate into resentment if not managed properly.

The Recipe for Resentment

Steven breaks down the formula for resentment:

• Expectations: What we expect others to do for us—support, assistance, acknowledgment.
• Others' Limitations: The reality that others have their own limitations and constraints.
• Grace: The missing ingredient that should bridge the gap between expectations and limitations.

Steven Furtick [15:30]: "Your expectations, what they need to give you, how they need to appreciate you... minus grace is a recipe for resentment."

Martha vs. Mary: A Deeper Look

Steven revisits the roles of Martha and Mary, praising Martha for her resourcefulness, responsibility, and respectfulness. However, he cautions against allowing these virtues to become sources of distraction from spiritual growth and presence with God.

Steven Furtick [22:10]: "Martha was resourceful. She heard the list of disciples and realized, okay, if I want to do this for Jesus, I'm going to have to do it for all of them, which is a big commitment."

Contrastingly, Mary is commended for her presence and devotion, serving as a model for listeners to prioritize their spiritual lives over busyness.

Steven Furtick [35:50]: "Mary sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said. What was Mary doing? Listening."

Modern-Day Martha: Navigating Multiple Roles

Steven draws parallels between Martha's story and the modern-day struggle of juggling multiple roles—parent, professional, spouse, etc. He encourages listeners to recognize when their to-do lists are creating division and leading to resentment.

Steven Furtick [45:00]: "Your expectations minus others limitations equals Jesus, because he's not limited and he could do anything."

He emphasizes the importance of pivoting—adjusting priorities without feeling overwhelmed—rather than being distracted by the demands of life.

The Shift from Resentment to Resurrection

Transitioning from resentment, Steven introduces the concept of focusing on God's list rather than personal agendas. By aligning with God's priorities, listeners can experience spiritual resurrection and fulfillment.

Steven Furtick [1:05:20]: "My faith plus God's presence is a recipe for resurrection."

He recounts the story of Lazarus from John 11, illustrating how Martha's shift in focus from her burdens to God's purpose led to a miraculous outcome.

Conclusion: Embracing God's List

Steven concludes by urging listeners to evaluate their personal lists and identify whether they are driven by self-imposed expectations or by a desire to align with God's will. He calls for a conscious shift to prioritize divine guidance, ensuring that grace fills the gaps between expectations and real-life limitations.

Steven Furtick [1:15:45]: "Only one thing is necessary because I will never pull you apart if you are being pulled apart by the demands of your life. Let me do my job in your life."

Final Thoughts

"A Recipe For Resentment" serves as a poignant reminder to balance our responsibilities with spiritual grounding. Steven Furtick masterfully intertwines personal stories, biblical lessons, and practical advice to guide listeners towards a life free from resentment, anchored in grace and divine purpose.

Key Takeaways:

• Identify Your List: Assess the expectations you set for yourself and others.
• Embrace Grace: Allow divine grace to mitigate the gap between expectations and limitations.
• Prioritize Presence: Like Mary, focus on being present with God rather than being solely task-oriented.
• Pivot When Needed: Adapt to life's demands without losing sight of spiritual priorities.
• Align with God's Will: Shift from self-centered agendas to embracing God's list for a fulfilling life.

Notable Quotes:

• "Your expectations plus others limitations, minus grace is a recipe for resentment." – Steven Furtick [03:15]
• "Your expectations minus others limitations equals Jesus." – Steven Furtick [45:00]
• "My faith plus God's presence is a recipe for resurrection." – Steven Furtick [1:05:20]

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