Episode Summary: "When You Just Can’t Win"

Podcast: Elevation with Steven Furtick
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
Release Date: January 20, 2025

Introduction: Embracing Presence Over Performance

In this powerful episode of Elevation with Steven Furtick, Pastor Steven and Holly Furtick delve into the challenging yet transformative theme of facing moments in life where it feels like you just can't win. The discussion emphasizes the importance of presence over performance in one's spiritual journey, encouraging listeners to rely on God's unwavering support during life's battles.

Appreciating the Elevation Family (EFAM) and Worship Team

The episode opens with heartfelt gratitude towards the Elevation Family (EFAM) joining from around the world. Holly and the guest speaker express appreciation for the worship team, highlighting their role not just in performance but in ministering through their presence.

Guest Speaker [00:37]: "I sense that today, while each and every one of you were ministering."

Holly Furtick [01:16]: "Our EFAM is joining in and telling us where they're watching from."

The Wrestling Analogy: Understanding Spiritual Battles

A significant portion of the episode uses the sport of wrestling as a metaphor for spiritual warfare. The guest speaker shares personal experiences watching wrestling, drawing parallels between the sport's unpredictability and the unexpected challenges faced in life.

Holly Furtick [08:54]: "She said even if the person is down by a wide margin of points... it's never really over because... there's always a chance that something could happen."

This analogy underscores the message that no matter how dire the circumstances, there remains a possibility for victory through faith.

Scriptural Foundations: Deuteronomy and Ephesians

The discussion anchors itself in biblical scripture, particularly focusing on:

• Deuteronomy 20:1: Encouraging courage in the face of overwhelming odds.

  Holly Furtick [04:55]: "Do not be afraid of them, because the Lord your God... will be with you."

• Ephesians 6:13: Highlighting the necessity of spiritual armor in enduring evil.

  Holly Furtick [05:52]: "Therefore, put on the full armor of God... so that you may be able to stand your ground."

These scriptures form the backbone of the episode's message, reinforcing the belief that God's presence equips believers to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Siege Season: Navigating Prolonged Struggles

A pivotal concept introduced is the siege season, a period of prolonged struggle where victories are not immediate but are part of a larger divine plan. The host explains that during these times, believers are called to remain and resist, trusting that God is at work even when outcomes are not immediately apparent.

Guest Speaker [35:33]: "Some of the things that are happening in your life right now that feel like failure are actually just for your future."

This segment encourages listeners to maintain their faith and patience, understanding that growth often occurs beneath the surface during tough times.

Key Takeaways: Three Pillars to Overcome Feeling Overwhelmed

The episode distills its message into three actionable pillars for moments when you feel like you just can't win:

1. Remember: Reflect on God's past faithfulness and victories in your life.

   Holly Furtick [23:44]: "He said, when you face an enemy that is bigger than you... do not be afraid of them."

2. Resist: Stand firm against temptations to give up or take shortcuts that undermine your faith.

   Guest Speaker [34:07]: "When you are in a siege season, some of you are tempted to just start chopping down everything you see."

3. Remain: Stay connected to God, recognizing that continual faith and presence can lead to eventual victory.

   Holly Furtick [51:14]: "Remain in me as I also remain in you."

These pillars serve as a roadmap for listeners to navigate their struggles with resilience and divine support.

Embracing God's Process: Patience and Growth

The hosts discuss the importance of allowing God's processes to unfold without rushing or forcing outcomes. They caution against impulsive actions that might disrupt the growth God is fostering in one's life.

Holly Furtick [44:19]: "It just isn't the season yet. Nobody is going to chop down a tree that has fruit visible on it and use it for a battering ram."

This analogy reinforces the idea that patience is crucial, and that persistent faith will eventually lead to fruition.

Conclusion: Standing Firm in Faith

As the episode draws to a close, both Steven and Holly emphasize the necessity of standing firm in faith, even when victories are not immediately visible. They encourage listeners to remain connected to Jesus and trust that God’s timing and plans surpass human understanding.

Guest Speaker [53:43]: "Some of the greatest growth in our life happens underground. Some of the greatest cultivation will be of our character."

This final message serves as a powerful reminder that perseverance and faith during challenging times lead to profound personal and spiritual growth.

Note: This summary omits introductory remarks, advertisements, and closing promotional content, focusing solely on the core message and discussions presented in the episode.