
Elevation with Steven Furtick Backseat DJs
Jan 9, 2026
Join the journey to discover the true source of joy in life. Steven Furtick shares a personal tale about family car rides and how joy is often mistaken for fleeting pleasure. He distinguishes between trials needing acceptance and temptations requiring resistance, emphasizing the importance of wisdom. Delve into the concept of joy as a chosen focus rather than a mere feeling. Learn to prioritize presence over comparison and avoid the pitfalls of overplanning. Ultimately, abiding in Christ is portrayed as the key to sustaining joy, inviting listeners to reset their priorities.
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Backseat Stereo Moment
- Steven Furtick describes his kids secretly controlling his car stereo from the back seat and calling them out as 'passengers' not drivers.
- He uses this story to introduce the sermon theme that unseen 'backseat DJs' control aspects of our lives, especially joy.
Trials Vary; Joy Can Be Reframed
- James 1:2 teaches to 'consider it joy' when facing many kinds of trials, reframing hardship as spiritual testing.
- Steven explains trials vary widely and distinguishing types is crucial to respond wisely.
Know Which Battle To Fight
- Distinguish temptation from trial because the remedy differs: resist temptation but often accept trials.
- Steven urges asking God for wisdom (James 1:5) to know which response fits each situation.
