Elevation with Steven Furtick: Episode Summary
Episode Title: All You Have To Do Is Don’t
Release Date: May 4, 2025
Host: iHeartPodcasts
Description: Welcome to the weekly podcast of Elevation Church led by Pastor Steven Furtick. To learn more, visit Elevation Church or download the Elevation App.
1. Introduction to the Message
Pastor Steven Furtick opens the episode by expressing gratitude to the listeners and setting an inspiring tone for the message. He emphasizes the presence and goodness of God, encouraging the congregation to recognize God's movement in their lives.
Notable Quote:
"Hope it builds your faith." (01:38)
2. Embracing the Presence of God
Steven leads the congregation in a heartfelt prayer, thanking God for the present moment, the blessings of a new day, and the people in their lives. He encourages the audience to acknowledge God's sovereignty and faithfulness.
Notable Quote:
"I thank you that you are the God who goes before us when we feel like falling." (02:15)
3. The Power of God's Word
Furtick highlights the potency of God's word, comparing it to rain that waters the earth without returning empty. He invites listeners to receive the forthcoming message with open hearts.
Notable Quote:
"It will not return unto you void. It never does. It can't. It must accomplish what you sent it to do." (03:10)
4. Overcoming Weariness in Doing Good
The central theme revolves around Galatians 6:9, where Steven encourages believers not to grow weary in doing good, promising that they will reap a harvest in due season if they persevere.
Scripture Reference:
"And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up." (06:00)
Notable Quote:
"All you have to do is don’t." (08:15)
5. Identifying the Source of Weariness
Steven shares a personal struggle with burnout, distinguishing between being weary because of the work itself versus being weary due to worries about the work. He emphasizes that it's often our worries and expectations that drain us, not the actual tasks.
Notable Quote:
"The chronic urge to quit is a signal that something needs to shift." (14:00)
6. Understanding Chronos vs. Kairos Time
Furtick introduces the Greek concepts of Chronos (sequential time) and Kairos (appointed, opportune moments). He explains how focusing too much on Chronos can hinder our ability to recognize and seize Kairos moments provided by God.
Notable Quote:
"God does stuff on His schedule. Due season." (22:16)
7. Navigating "Don't Seasons"
The sermon delves into the concept of "don't seasons"—times when things aren't going as planned, and faith feels weak. Steven reassures listeners that God walks them through these challenging periods and provides the necessary strength.
Notable Quote:
"I want to preach about don't season today." (28:31)
8. Biblical Illustration: King Jehoshaphat's Crisis
Steven recounts the story of King Jehoshaphat from 2 Chronicles 20, illustrating how God directs His people during unforeseen battles. Jehoshaphat's reliance on God during a crisis serves as a blueprint for believers facing their own challenges.
Notable Quote:
"Don't be afraid and don't be discouraged because the battle is not yours, but God's." (55:58)
9. Practical Applications for Daily Life
Furtick provides actionable steps for listeners to apply the message:
- Don't Hold Too Tight: Release control and trust God with the outcomes.
- Don't Time Travel: Focus on the present instead of worrying about the future.
- Don't Turn Back: Persist in faith even when facing setbacks.
Notable Quote:
"Don't grow weary is an invitation to understand why you're weary." (15:56)
10. Encouragement and Empowerment
Concluding the message, Steven reinforces that God equips believers with the strength needed to persevere. He encourages the congregation to maintain their focus on God, especially during tough times, ensuring them that their efforts will yield positive results in due season.
Notable Quote:
"You will not have to fight this battle alone." (59:02)
Conclusion
Pastor Steven Furtick's episode “All You Have To Do Is Don’t” serves as a powerful reminder to trust in God's timing and provisions. By addressing the roots of weariness and providing biblical insights, Steven empowers listeners to continue doing good without succumbing to doubt or exhaustion.
Final Encouragement:
"Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up." (62:20)
Key Takeaways
- Perseverance in Goodness: Continue doing good without growing weary, trusting that God will reward your efforts in due time.
- Release Control: Let go of the need to manage every aspect and trust God’s sovereignty.
- Focus on the Present: Avoid getting overwhelmed by future worries; live in the Kairos moments God provides.
- Embrace Challenges: Recognize that "don't seasons" are opportunities for spiritual growth and deeper reliance on God.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- "Hope it builds your faith." — 01:38
- "It will not return unto you void. It never does. It can't. It must accomplish what you sent it to do." — 03:10
- "All you have to do is don’t." — 08:15
- "The chronic urge to quit is a signal that something needs to shift." — 14:00
- "Don't grow weary is an invitation to understand why you're weary." — 15:56
- "God does stuff on His schedule. Due season." — 22:16
- "Don't be afraid and don't be discouraged because the battle is not yours, but God's." — 55:58
- "You will not have to fight this battle alone." — 59:02
- "Let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up." — 62:20
This episode of Elevation with Steven Furtick provides profound insights into overcoming spiritual fatigue by trusting in God's plan and timing. Whether you're navigating personal challenges or striving to make a positive impact, Steven's message encourages resilience and unwavering faith.
