Podcast Summary: "The Battle Made Me" by Stephen Chandler
Podcast: Elevation with Steven Furtick
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
Episode: The Battle Made Me (Stephen Chandler)
Release Date: January 6, 2025
Introduction
The episode begins with Pastor Steven Furtick welcoming listeners and introducing the episode titled "The Battle Made Me," featuring guest speaker Stephen Chandler. The focus of the episode centers on understanding how personal battles shape and strengthen one's faith and character.
Recognizing Blessings and Leadership
Stephen Chandler opens by acknowledging the blessings of being part of Elevation Church, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and appreciating these blessings to avoid taking them for granted.
Stephen Chandler [00:18]: "You have no idea how blessed you are. People don't get to walk into places like this all over the world every Sunday. You are the favored of the Lord. Somebody say amen."
He praises the leadership of Pastor Steven and Pastor Holly, highlighting their roles as "generals of the faith" guiding the church and influencing similar congregations worldwide.
Stephen Chandler [00:45]: "There are bootleg Elevation churches all over the world following what you guys do here. It's because God has given you a general that is setting the pace for the kingdom of God."
Personal Introduction and Family
Stephen shares personal anecdotes about his family, humorously showcasing his children and their nicknames. He introduces his wife, Zy Chandler, and their children, underscoring the importance of family in his life and ministry.
Stephen Chandler [03:30]: "Standing on my far left is my beautiful wife, Zy Chandler. She is the preacher of the family. I am the backup."
He also mentions his daughter Jade Mariah, emphasizing the importance of praying for her salvation, illustrating personal struggles intertwined with faith.
Stephen Chandler [04:00]: "Can you pray for J Mo? She is not a Christian. She looks like an angel. She acts like a fallen angel. And we are praying for the salvation of that cutie pie."
Scripture Reference: 1 Samuel 21
Stephen introduces the key scripture for the episode, 1 Samuel 21, relating it to personal battles and seeking refuge in God's presence during challenging times.
Stephen Chandler [05:00]: "David was running for his life... The first place he runs to is the house of God as he is running for his life."
Message: Battles in Life
The core message revolves around the inevitability of battles in life and how these struggles are instrumental in shaping one's faith and purpose. Stephen emphasizes that battles are not just obstacles but opportunities for growth and testimonies of God's favor.
Stephen Chandler [10:15]: "Some battles come looking for me. Some battles I go looking for."
He draws parallels between David's battles with lions and bears and the personal struggles individuals face, highlighting that these battles prepare believers for greater victories.
David's Story and Application
Stephen delves deeper into David's life, illustrating how God's favor and anointing were evident in both his victories and his battles. He explains that David's experiences are a blueprint for understanding one's own spiritual journey.
Stephen Chandler [12:30]: "David was plucked out of obscurity... It is impossible to see how God's hand is on David's life and not also recognize how God's hand has been on your life every single step of the journey."
The Purpose of Battles
Battles serve as divine training grounds, equipping believers with faith, fortitude, and creativity. Stephen stresses that battles are not punishments but blessings that refine and prepare individuals for their divine purposes.
Stephen Chandler [22:45]: "There is a blessing in the battle because it made you who you are."
He shares personal testimonies, including his mother's battle with cancer, illustrating how enduring trials can lead to profound spiritual growth and testimonies of God's healing power.
Stephen Chandler [35:20]: "My mom battled cancer for 13 years and ended up passing away after 13 years. But God supernaturally healed her... the faith that it built in me to still preach about healing and hope and purpose."
Personal Stories and Examples
Using relatable anecdotes, Stephen connects biblical narratives to everyday experiences, making the message accessible and impactful. He recounts his childhood experiences and his father's expectations, emphasizing the role of perseverance and faith in overcoming adversity.
Stephen Chandler [28:10]: "You are not just who you are because of the parents who raised you. You are not just who you are because of the effort that you put in... It's none other than the hand of God on your life."
Conclusion: Embracing Battles for God’s Purpose
Stephen concludes by encouraging listeners to embrace their battles, viewing them as integral parts of their spiritual journeys. He urges believers to stand firm in their faith, fight their battles with God's strength, and recognize the greater victories that await them.
Stephen Chandler [45:50]: "You cannot avoid them. Here's the good news. If you don't back up, if you don't quit, if you don't throw in the towel, victory has your name on it."
He ends with a powerful call to action, inviting listeners to surrender their battles to God and trust in His promises for ultimate victory and purpose.
Stephen Chandler [46:00]: "Lord Jesus, this is my moment. I surrender to you. I believe it was your cross, it was your blood that bought my freedom... In Jesus name. Amen and Amen."
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
- Stephen Chandler [00:18]: "You are the favored of the Lord. Somebody say amen."
- Stephen Chandler [00:45]: "There are bootleg Elevation churches all over the world following what you guys do here."
- Stephen Chandler [05:00]: "David was running for his life... The first place he runs to is the house of God as he is running for his life."
- Stephen Chandler [10:15]: "Some battles come looking for me. Some battles I go looking for."
- Stephen Chandler [22:45]: "There is a blessing in the battle because it made you who you are."
- Stephen Chandler [35:20]: "The faith that it built in me to still preach about healing and hope and purpose."
- Stephen Chandler [45:50]: "Victory has your name on it."
- Stephen Chandler [46:00]: "In Jesus name. Amen and Amen."
Key Takeaways
- Embrace Your Battles: Personal struggles are opportunities for spiritual growth and testimonies of God's faithfulness.
- Recognize God's Favor: Acknowledge and appreciate the blessings and leadership within your life to foster gratitude.
- Stand Firm in Faith: Trust in God's promises during challenging times, knowing that He is preparing you for greater victories.
- Purpose in Struggle: Understand that battles are not just obstacles but divine training grounds shaping your character and destiny.
- Community and Support: Lean on the church community and leadership for strength and encouragement in your spiritual journey.
Final Thoughts
Stephen Chandler's message in "The Battle Made Me" serves as a profound reminder that life's battles are essential components of one's faith journey. By embracing these challenges with a heart of gratitude and trust in God's plan, believers can witness transformative growth and ultimate victories that testify to God's unwavering presence and purpose in their lives.