At just 20 years old, Ian Kahler has already reached hundreds of thousands of people around the world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ — not from a pulpit, but from his phone.
As the founder of Divine Inspiration, an online account nearing 400,000 followers, Ian is part of a new generation of believers using creativity, media, and faith to bring hope to a digital world. On this week’s Corral Call, Ian sat down with Mark and Dr. Je to share his incredible journey from panic attacks to purpose — and how God turned his pain into a platform.
From Panic Attacks to Purpose
Ian didn’t grow up in a Christian home. His story began in Boise, Idaho, where at just 12 years old he began suffering from severe panic attacks and anxiety that kept him out of school for months.
“It felt like I was trapped — like I couldn’t escape it,” Ian shared. “I’d have multiple panic attacks a day, and I didn’t know what was happening to me.”
After years of trying therapy and medication, Ian hit a breaking point. One night, in the middle of yet another panic attack, he dropped to his knees and prayed his first real prayer:
“God, if You’re real, save me.”
That prayer would change everything. Shortly after, his dad’s friend invited them to church. Ian didn’t remember the sermon, the songs, or even where he sat — but he did remember what he felt.
“I encountered the presence of God for the first time,” he said.
Ian gave his life to Jesus that day and was baptized alongside his dad. Slowly, God began to heal his mind, body, and spirit.
Learning Identity, Not Performance
Like many new believers, Ian wrestled with a performance mindset — trying to earn God’s approval through effort.
“I thought if I didn’t pray or read my Bible enough, God would be disappointed,” he explained.
But through mentorship and discipleship, he began to understand that his relationship with God wasn’t about checking boxes — it was about knowing his identity in Christ.
“Once I learned who I was in Jesus — that I was loved and accepted — it changed everything.”
That revelation fueled his faith and inspired him to share that same message of freedom with others.
Building Divine Inspiration
When Ian was 16, he felt called to return to content creation — but this time, with a purpose.
He launched Divine Inspiration, a short-form video ministry that clips sermons, testimonies, and Biblical encouragements for platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
“I posted my first video after class one day,” he said. “It reached 3,000 people within hours. That’s when I realized the power of social media.”
But the growth didn’t come overnight. For months, Ian posted daily with little response. Then one post went viral — reaching 9 million views — and the account exploded.
“From there, Divine Inspiration grew to 100,000 followers, and it hasn’t stopped,” Ian said.
Today, Ian continues to post two to three times daily, creating Christ-centered content that inspires, challenges, and points people to Jesus.
A New Generation of Disciples
Now, Ian uses his experience to help churches, ministries, and faith-based businesses grow their own online presence through video editing, social media management, and collaborations.
But more importantly, he’s passionate about discipleship — helping young believers grow in their walk with God.
“Every person needs discipleship,” Ian said. “I wouldn’t be where I am without the mentors who poured into me. Now, I want to do the same for others.”
He’s currently partnering with SheepFeast and Os Hillman onTGIF Generations to help bridge the gap between young and seasoned believers, creating a digital community where wisdom and faith flow between generations.
Faith in the Face of Fear
Ian’s story is more than just about social media success — it’s about redemption, identity, and faith over fear.
“No matter how young or old you are,” Ian shared, “if you haven’t given your life to Christ, He’s waiting. I’m living proof that He can take your fear and turn it into purpose.”
Connect with Ian
📲 Follow: Divine Inspiration on Instagram
🌐 Business Website: churchsocialmediagrowth.com
🤝 Work with Ian: Social media growth and editing services for churches, ministries and faith-based businesses