The Battle Made Me (Stephen Chandler)
Elevation with Steven Furtick
Deep Dive
What is the main message of the sermon titled 'The Battle Made Me'?
The sermon emphasizes that battles in life, though difficult, develop qualities and strengths within us that cannot be gained any other way. These battles, even if unwanted, shape who we are and prepare us for future victories. The message encourages embracing battles as they come, trusting in God's favor, and recognizing that blessings often follow struggles.
Why does Pastor Stephen Chandler highlight the importance of battles in shaping one's character?
Pastor Stephen Chandler explains that battles develop parts of our personality and faith that cannot be built through ease or comfort. He uses the example of David, who faced lions, bears, and Goliath, to illustrate how these challenges prepared David for his future role as king. Battles teach resilience, faith, and reliance on God, which are essential for fulfilling one's destiny.
What does Pastor Stephen Chandler say about the relationship between battles and God's favor?
Pastor Stephen Chandler argues that battles are often a sign of God's favor and purpose on someone's life. He explains that the enemy attacks those with potential, and the size of the battle often reflects the size of the call God has placed on a person. Battles are not punishments but opportunities to grow and fulfill God's plan.
How does Pastor Stephen Chandler describe the role of anointing in overcoming battles?
Pastor Stephen Chandler defines anointing as receiving supernatural results that exceed human effort. He uses David's life as an example, showing how David's victories over lions, bears, and Goliath were not due to his own strength but God's anointing. Anointing empowers individuals to face battles with confidence, knowing that God's favor will bring victory.
What lesson does Pastor Stephen Chandler draw from David's battles with lions and bears?
Pastor Stephen Chandler highlights that David's battles with lions and bears prepared him for his fight with Goliath. These earlier battles taught David to trust in God's strength and protection, proving that past victories equip us for future challenges. The lesson is that battles, even if unexpected, are training grounds for greater purposes.
What does Pastor Stephen Chandler say about avoiding battles?
Pastor Stephen Chandler warns that avoiding battles is not an option for those called by God. He uses David's story to illustrate that the safest place for David was on the battlefield, not in the palace. Avoiding battles can lead to stagnation or even failure, while facing them head-on brings growth and victory.
How does Pastor Stephen Chandler connect battles to future blessings?
Pastor Stephen Chandler teaches that battles are often preparation for future blessings. He uses the example of a widow who, after surviving a famine, faced the death of her son but had the faith to believe God could bring life back. The battles we face build faith and resilience, equipping us for greater victories ahead.
What does Pastor Stephen Chandler say about the enemy's strategy in battles?
Pastor Stephen Chandler explains that the enemy attacks in infancy what he does not want to deal with in maturity. He uses the example of Moses, where Pharaoh tried to kill Hebrew boys to prevent the rise of a deliverer. The enemy targets potential early, but God's favor ensures that His plans prevail.
What does Pastor Stephen Chandler say about picking the right battles?
Pastor Stephen Chandler advises believers to focus on battles that align with God's promises and purpose for their lives. He warns against getting distracted by unnecessary fights, using David's example of avoiding conflicts that did not contribute to his destiny. The key is to fight for what God has promised, not every battle that arises.
How does Pastor Stephen Chandler describe the role of faith in overcoming battles?
Pastor Stephen Chandler emphasizes that faith is essential in overcoming battles. He shares personal stories, such as his mother's 13-year battle with cancer, to illustrate how faith grows through trials. Faith allows believers to trust in God's promises, even when circumstances seem impossible, and to see battles as opportunities for God's intervention.
Shownotes Transcript