Podcast Summary: Elevation with Steven Furtick
Episode Title: It Is What It Is But It's Not What It Seems
Release Date: June 20, 2025

Introduction

In this inspiring episode of Elevation with Steven Furtick, Pastor Steven Furtick delves deep into the essence of faith, drawing from Romans Chapter 4 to explore the transformative power of genuine belief. Skipping over the initial advertisements and non-content segments, the episode swiftly transitions into a profound message aimed at fostering authentic faith and resilience among listeners.

Main Message: Understanding Functional Faith

Pastor Furtick begins by expressing his respect for the presence of God and his desire to allow God to speak profoundly through the Word. He emphasizes the concept of functional faith, a faith that actively influences one's life beyond mere belief.

"I want to plant the seed of the Word in the soil of your heart. I believe God has given me good seed to sow into you today."
— Stephen Furtick [01:36]

He challenges listeners to recognize the presence of God in their lives and to share this awareness with others, fostering a community rooted in faith.

The Story of Abraham: A Model of Unwavering Faith

Central to the episode is the exploration of Romans 4:18, where the Apostle Paul highlights Abraham's unwavering belief against all odds. Pastor Furtick elucidates how Abraham's faith led him to become the father of many nations, despite seemingly impossible circumstances.

"Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations."
— Stephen Furtick [05:09]

He draws parallels between Abraham's experiences and the listeners' own lives, encouraging them to see themselves as rightful owners of God's promises.

Contrasting Denial and Despair with Authentic Faith

Pastor Furtick warns against two extremes that can undermine faith: denial and despair. Denial involves ignoring reality, using faith as a means to overlook genuine issues, while despair signifies a complete absence of faith, leading to hopelessness.

"Faith can handle that. The starting place of authentic faith. Faith is honesty."
— Stephen Furtick [21:34]

He emphasizes that authentic faith requires honesty—acknowledging one's struggles and imperfections without allowing them to erode belief in God's promises.

Practical Applications: Rewriting the Narrative of Your Life

A significant portion of the sermon focuses on narrative transformation—encouraging listeners to redefine their life stories through the lens of faith rather than feelings. Pastor Furtick urges individuals to become the narrators of their own lives, choosing to interpret situations with faith-infused perspectives.

"Faith is not a feeling. Faith is a decision."
— Stephen Furtick [21:34]

He advocates for planting "seeds of purpose" even in doubtful circumstances, assuring that these seeds will grow beyond current perceptions.

"Can you see the tree in the seed? This is the question of faith."
— Stephen Furtick [28:07]

Embracing Growth Through Faith

Pastor Furtick likens faith to a seed that, when planted in the soil of adversity, can flourish into something magnificent. He uses the metaphor of trees in seeds to illustrate potential growth despite seemingly insignificant beginnings.

"It's a little boy's lunch. It's only five loaves and two fish."
— Stephen Furtick [30:53]

He reinforces the idea that small acts of faith can lead to significant outcomes, encouraging listeners to nurture their faith diligently.

Conclusion: Moving Forward with Authentic Faith

In his concluding remarks, Pastor Furtick reiterates the core message that while reality may present challenges ("it is what it is"), faith transforms the perception and outcome ("but it's not what it seems"). He calls on listeners to embrace honest faith, face their realities head-on, and trust in God's greater plan.

"It is what it is. But watch this. It's not what it seems."
— Stephen Furtick [24:33]

He inspires the audience to remain steadfast in their faith, assuring them that their planted seeds will yield abundant growth beyond their current understanding.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• "Faith is not a feeling. Faith is a decision."
  — Stephen Furtick [21:34]

• "Can you see the tree in the seed? This is the question of faith."
  — Stephen Furtick [28:07]

• "Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations."
  — Stephen Furtick [05:09]

• "It is what it is. But watch this. It's not what it seems."
  — Stephen Furtick [24:33]

• "Faith can handle that. The starting place of authentic faith. Faith is honesty."
  — Stephen Furtick [21:34]

Final Thoughts

This episode serves as a compelling guide for believers seeking to deepen their faith and navigate life's complexities with honesty and resilience. Pastor Steven Furtick masterfully intertwines biblical teachings with practical life applications, empowering listeners to cultivate a faith that is both genuine and transformative.

Note: This summary intentionally omits non-content segments, such as advertisements and introductions, focusing solely on the substantive message delivered by Pastor Steven Furtick.