Elevation Nights Tour

Benchmark International Arena, Tampa, FL – October 28, 2025

Elevation Nights Tampa Review — A Night of Worship, Wonder, and God’s Presence

On October 28th, I had the opportunity to experience Elevation Nights at the newly named Benchmark International Arena (formerly Amalie Arena), and it was a night I won’t soon forget. As someone who deeply loves Elevation Worship’s music—and has been especially impacted by Elevation Rhythm—this was a date circled on my calendar for months. The fact that Pastor Steven Furtick would be delivering a message made the anticipation even greater.

A couple of days before the event, we learned there would also be a book signing for Pastor Furtick’s release, Do the New You. That sealed it—I made plans to get there hours early with my daughter, Lorelai. Not only did we get the book signed, but we shared a brief, meaningful conversation with Pastor Furtick, along with photos and a video captured by the incredibly kind and organized tour staff. It was the perfect way to start what would become an unforgettable night.

The Atmosphere Builds

From the moment we found our seats—great seats, at that—the atmosphere felt charged with expectation. LED wristbands were handed out as we entered, lighting up the arena with coordinated color and movement similar to what we experienced at the Brandon Lake concert weeks prior. Before the music even began, fans were treated to videos highlighting the birth of Elevation Church, how God used the digital era (especially during COVID) to expand its reach, and how the church continues to grow far beyond its walls. Pastors from Elevation and even one of Steven Furtick’s sons appeared on stage to welcome the crowd and set the tone for the night.

Elevation Rhythm Sets the Pace

Elevation Rhythm opened the night with “PRAISES,” immediately filling all three levels of the arena—yes, three levels—something I rarely see used for concerts in this venue. What followed was a vibrant, joy-filled set including “Sing of Your Love,” “This Is The Gospel,” and a beautifully reverent moment with “At The Altar,” a personal favorite of mine. The entire room shifted into worship, hands raised, voices lifted, and hearts locked in on Jesus.

They closed with “WASHED  ,” a newer song that’s become a staple in our youth services recently—so being part of 12,000 people singing it together was next-level powerful.

A Kingdom Moment With World Vision

Before Elevation Worship took the stage, a World Vision message was shared. This stop of Elevation Nights had a special focus: every child available for sponsorship that night was from Mali. Their goal? For Tampa to sponsor every single child from that country. Seeing the body of Christ rally together in generosity was a moment in itself.

Elevation Worship Takes Over

Then came Elevation Worship—lights, visuals, and those glowing wristbands bursting to life as they opened with “LION.” What followed felt like a Holy Spirit-infused journey through some of their most powerful songs: “So So Good,” “God Did,” and, to my surprise, “Jireh”—a song I originally associated with Maverick City, not realizing it was actually a collaboration. Hearing it live in this setting brought new meaning to it.

“Same God” brought another wave of passionate worship before Pastor Steven and Holly Furtick stepped out to share a short word. Holly offered a beautiful devotional reflecting on Miriam and her tambourine, praising God after the Israelites crossed the Red Sea. Pastor Steven then introduced one of his favorite songs, “Goodbye Yesterday,” leading into “I Know a Name,” “Jesus Be the Name,” and “Trust in God”—a song that personally marked the beginning of my renewed worship journey earlier this year.

One of the most touching moments of the night came when the Furticks’ daughter, Abbey, led the arena in “The Blessing.” Hearing that song—one I’ve always tied to Kari Jobe and Cody Carnes—sung live while standing next to my own daughter made the moment profoundly personal. Lorelai and I have grown deeply in our faith walks together this year, and that song felt like a prayer spoken over both our lives.

A Message and a Finale to Remember

Pastor Steven’s message centered on John 5—the story of the man at the pool of Bethesda who Jesus tells to “get up and walk.” His teaching was both practical and powerful, weaving in the challenge to rise from places of stagnation and step into the new thing God is calling us toward. It tied beautifully into the theme of his new book.

The night ended with a final run of worship including “Graves Into Gardens,” plus a few closing songs that turned into a full-on praise celebration, with Pastor Steven joining the team in lifting up Jesus.

Final Thoughts

Twelve thousand believers, on a Tuesday night, filling an arena with worship is something you simply have to experience to grasp the fullness of it. Elevation Nights wasn’t just a concert—it was an encounter. A reminder of the power of community, the beauty of worship, and the presence of God meeting His people in a space where hearts are ready and willing.

I’m incredibly grateful that Lorelai and I were able to be there together, and I’m already looking forward to the next time Elevation Nights comes back through. If you’re considering catching them on tour—don’t hesitate. It’s a worship experience you won’t forget.