Join The Journey

In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses Psalm 1-8 with Watermark staff member, Shelby Carnefix. Shelby specifially breaks down Psalm 1 for us, as well as how we can avoid sinning in our anger, and how the Lord is near to all of us during times of tribulations.  Respond in worship with Psalm 8 (Majestic is Your Name) by Shane and Shane: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPSv8vredVsTo join us in learning from CSNTM about the formation of the New Testament, register here:  https://new.csntm.org/biblionlectures/?vcrmeid=Hae9HjOMkiCRZ8Hunipvg&vcrmiid=-6X2ZipPw0yhVFKjRzXKSA

Published: 2 June 2025

Is it okay to be angry at God and doubt his character? In our final Care Team takeover episode, Wes Butler and Watermark member, Melissa Miller, close our the book of Job with Job 38-42 and God's response to Job's questions and doubt in God's character, displaying his soverignty, control, and love for his people in the midst of suffering.  To learn more about Worth More: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/after-abortion-care

Transcribed - Published: 31 May 2025

Wes Butler, Director of Care Ministries, is back for another Care Team episode with Watermark member, Kelley Maxwell. In today's episode, Wes and Kelley discuss Job 34-37 and talk about how God's character is always just and righteous, even while we are suffering. Additional References: John 9:2-3 To connect with Refuge: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/refuge To connect with any of our care ministries, you can email care@watermark.org To purchase Suffering by Paul David Tripp: https://a.co/d/8cyXiEk

Transcribed - Published: 30 May 2025

How can our questions and suffering cause us to form more intimacy with God? In today's Care Team, Director of Care Ministries, Wes Butler, talks with Watemark member Rachel Duncan about Job 31-33 and look at how Job worshipped God in the midst of his questions. Job is reminded by his friend of the truth of God's character.  To learn more about Courageous Hope: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/courageous-hope To learn more about MENd: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/mend

Transcribed - Published: 29 May 2025

In today's episode, Wes Butler talks with Watermark member, Gaby Duke, about Job 28-30. Gaby talks specifically chapter 28 and Job's pursuit of the answer to his "Why?" questions. Gaby reminds us that while the answer to our "why" is a desire to know, our ultimate goal should be intimacy with Jesus for comfort.   To learn more about Additional Care ministries at Watermark: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/deaf-ministry

Transcribed - Published: 28 May 2025

In today's Care Team episode, Wes Butler talks with Watermark member, Brad Pollock about Job 25-27, and two take aways from this portion of Job. The first, we need to be prudent in the way we respond to people's suffering. The second, we need to remember who God is and we may not know the bigger picture.  Additional References: Matthew 7 To connect with Careers in Motion: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/careers-in-motion

Transcribed - Published: 27 May 2025

In today's episode, Wes Butler, Director of Care ministries, talks with faithful Watermark member, Jen, about Job 22-24. Jen talks about how God is still working, even in the midst of suffering and when we can't see it. Jen shows where Job exemplifies trust in God's work.  To learn more about Divorce Care: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/divorce-recovery To learn about Divorce Care for Kids: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/kids-and-teens-divorce-recovery

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2025

In this special bonus episode, Wes Butler is back with Kyle and Liz Johnson talking about Job 16-18 and answer the question, "What do I do with the loss of dreams as a result of suffering?" Kyle and Liz also talk about the loneliness that can be felt while suffering and how to continue to rest in God's love for you in the midst of it.  Additional References: Proverbs 30:15-16 To connect with our ministry Shiloh visit https://www.watermark.org/ministries/shiloh Christopher Ash Book: Trusting God in the Darkness: https://a.co/d/cqv3eof

Transcribed - Published: 25 May 2025

In today's Care Team takeover episode, Director of Care Ministries, Wes Butler talks with Hugh Stevenson about Job 19-21. Hugh gives us 5 "Ps" - pain, passion, prayers, promises, and praises - seen within these chapters. Hugh and Wes discusses the questions and yearning often asked throughout suffering of God. Additional References: Luke 22:42; Jeremaiah 29:11; John 15:10-11; Philippians 4:6-7; Matthew 11:28-30 Worth More: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/after-abortion-care For more information about Prodigal: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/the-prodigal

Transcribed - Published: 24 May 2025

In today's episode, Wes Butler talks with Watermark members Kyle and Liz Johnson about Job 16-18, where Job makes accusations against God and expresses his deepest laments. Kyle and Liz give us some best practices when walking with someone who is enduring suffering.  To connect with our ministry Shiloh visit https://www.watermark.org/ministries/shiloh To sign up your child for Kaleidoscope: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/kaleidoscope Christopher Ash Book: Trusting God in the Darkness: https://a.co/d/cqv3eof

Transcribed - Published: 23 May 2025

Are God’s promises still true even in the face of suffering? In today’s episode, Watermark Care Director Wes Butler and Watermark Re:Generation staff member Michael Ziegler discuss Job 13-15 and how this passage reveals that suffering isn’t simple, it isn’t to be solved but endured, and it has a purpose that comes through the person of Christ.  Additional Scripture Referenced:Psalm 103; James 5:7-11 Interested in Watermark’s Divorce Recovery Ministry? Check out the link below!https://www.watermark.org/ministries/divorce-recovery  Christopher Ash Book: Trusting God in the Darkness: https://a.co/d/cqv3eof

Transcribed - Published: 22 May 2025

If we knew the reason why we were suffering, would it even ease the pain? In today's episode, Wes Butler talks with Watermark member, Randy Marshall, about Job 9-12 and how we can trust God for as long as we have left, even in the midst of suffering.  To learn more about Legacy: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/legacy

Transcribed - Published: 21 May 2025

In today's Care Team takeover, Wes Butler talks with Ben and LK Ortiz about Job 5-8 and remind us of where our true hope can be found during times of suffering. They explore the relationship between Job and his friends and explore what their hope was placed in when giving advice to Job. There is only one person that gives us the greatest hope in times of suffering, and his name is Jesus.  Additional References: Colossians 3:23; Ephesians 4:29  Refuge is a ministry for those battling chronic illness. For information to get connected, check out https://www.watermark.org/ministries/refuge Christopher Ash Book: Trusting God in the Darkness: https://a.co/d/cqv3eof

Transcribed - Published: 20 May 2025

In today's episode, Wes Butler, Director of Care Ministries, kicks off our Care Team takeover of Job. He is joined today by Watermark member, Paula Veal, who serves in Grief Share here at Watermark. Together, they introduce us to the book of Job and help us understand the beginning conversation between God and Satan in Job 1-4.  To sign up for GriefShare: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/grief-recovery Christopher Ash Book: Trusting God in the Darkness: https://a.co/d/cqv3eof A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis: https://a.co/d/71rXrVe

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2025

The Jews were threatened then triumphed. How do we understand God's providence in the book of Esther? In today's episode, Emma Dotter helps us understand the plot twist of Esther and the demonstration of God's soverienty, perfect timing, and justice.  Esther Bible Study by Beth Moore: https://a.co/d/45Cp5cH

Transcribed - Published: 17 May 2025

Today, Emma Dotter discusses the first 5 chapters of Esther. Throughout these chapters, the name of God is not mentioned, raising the question, "Where is God's name in the book of Esther?" Emma helps us to see God's providence in the midst of this story, even when he isn't explicitly mentioned.  Esther Bible Study by Beth Moore: https://a.co/d/45Cp5cH

Transcribed - Published: 16 May 2025

In today's final episode of Nehemiah, Emma Dotter and Scott Sengbush talk about how Nehemiah was inspecting the work, holding the people to the expectations that God had set. The people's continued failings demonstrate the need for a change of heart in the people, which we have received through Christ and the Spirit of God.

Transcribed - Published: 15 May 2025

In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Scott Sengbush discuss Nehemiah 8-10, focusing on the response of God's people after hearing God's word. They chose repentance and turning back to God. How will you turn your heart toward the Lord today and reflect on the great things he has done for you?  Additional References: 2 Kings 22:13 Men's and Women's Bible Study link  Got Questions article: https://www.gotquestions.org/Feast-of-Tabernacles.html

Transcribed - Published: 14 May 2025

In today's episode, Emma Dotter is back with Watermark member, Scott Sengbush to talk about Nehemiah 5-7. Scott talks about the how Nehemiah's reliance on the Lord in the task that the Lord gave him and how we, too, should rely on the Lord to help us in our projects and work.  Serve at Watermark: https://www.watermark.org/serving-at-watermark Link to TA's message at Breakaway: https://vimeo.com/259378761

Transcribed - Published: 13 May 2025

In today’s episode, Emma Dotter and faithful Watermark staff member Scott Sengbush discuss Nehemiah 1-4. Scott walks us through Nehemiah focusing on his role as a project manager and how he approaches the three facets of management (resourcing, time, and scope) with a biblical mindset.     Here is TA’s sermon on Nehemiah last May!  https://www.watermark.org/message/10960-the-word-of-revival    Want to learn more about Nehemiah? Check out Nehemiah: A Pastoral and Exegetical Commentary by T. J. Betts!  https://a.co/d/inQS0US    To subscribe to the Family Prayer Newsletter:     You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast:   https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2025

How do we biblically navigate the Israelites divorcing their pagan wives in the book of Ezra? In today’s episode, Emma Dotter and faithful Watermark member Casey Crane wrap up Ezra focusing on the moral issue Ezra and the Israelites must call out and deal with. Additional Scripture Referenced:Deuteronomy 7; 1 Corinthians 7:12-14; 1 Peter 1:1-2; Romans 7 Check out the Join The Journey Devotionals here! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898

Transcribed - Published: 10 May 2025

In today’s episode, Emma Dotter and faithful Watermark member Casey Crane discuss the adversity the Israelites go through as they rebuild the temple and the pressure they face to compromise to a pagan culture. Casey lays out 4 steps in growing in Scripture and resisting all things that set itself up against our walk with Christ: set your heart on Scripture, study it, do it, teach it.  Additional Scripture Referenced:2 Timothy 2:24-25; Proverbs 13:20; James 1:22-25 Check out the Join The Journey Devotionals here!https://www.jointhejourney.com/ You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898

Transcribed - Published: 9 May 2025

In today's episode, Zach Seitz and Watermark member, Casey Crane, discuss Ezra 1-3 and talk about how the history of the time period, king Cyrus, and Persia contribute to the events and God's work in the book of Ezra. They also discuss the significance of the temple being rebuilt for God's people.   Additional Scriptures: Daniel 5, 10; Jeremiah 25:11; Ephesians 2:19

Transcribed - Published: 8 May 2025

Who was Cyrus? Why was he significant to the story of Israel? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Daniel King, talk about 2 Chronicles 36 and discuss how king Cyrus' story points us to Jesus and God's plan for his people.  To get connected to our college ministry: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/college Scriptures Referenced: Romans 1:24; 2 Samuel 7; Isaiah 45:1 To learn more about king Cyrus: https://www.compellingtruth.org/Cyrus-in-the-Bible.htm

Transcribed - Published: 7 May 2025

In today's episode, Emma Dotter is joined by Watermark member, Bobby Crotty, to discuss 2 Chronicles 32-34 where we see king Josiah's reign. Emma and Bobby talk about the impact of Josiah's influence while in he was in leadership and the principles we can learn from his actions. Learn more about Men's Bible Study! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/mens-bible-study Learn more about Women's Bible Study! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/womens-bible-study To listen to T.A.'s Easter message: https://www.watermark.org/message/11900-easter-2025-2-kings-23

Transcribed - Published: 6 May 2025

What was the significance of celebrating Passover? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Ann Holford and discusses the Feast of Passover. Ann helps us understand why Passover was so important to Israel and how Passover points to Jesus.  To learn more about Men's Bible Study: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/mens-bible-study To learn more about Women's Bible Study: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/womens-bible-study

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2025

What examples of good and bad leadership do we see in these kings? What can we learn from them? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Chis Sherrod, talk about the pretenses that describe some of the kings in 2 Chronicles 24-27. Chris gives us lessons we can learn from these kings mistakes and helps us reflect on our own relationships with God in light of those lessons.  Refereced Scriptures: Isaiah 66; Psalm 1:1-3

Transcribed - Published: 3 May 2025

In today's episode, Parker Primrose walks us through some of the bad kings seen in 2 Chronicles 19-23, and shows us where they fell short as kings comparatively to Jesus who is the perfect king. Parker reminds us that we serve and can have relationship with the greatest king, Jesus!  Additional References: John 10:28-29; Isaiah 9:6; 1 John 1:1; Roman 5:7; Matthew 16:15

Transcribed - Published: 2 May 2025

In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks about who king Jehoshaphat was in 2 Chronicles 14-18. Emma shows us lessons that can be learned through Jehoshaphat's reforms, teachability, and stance on the truth of God's instruction.  To sign up to receive the Family Prayer Newsletter: https://watermark.us2.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=ad1ba61e7ac85da94881213f1&id=5875986885 

Transcribed - Published: 1 May 2025

In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson and Watermark member, Hannah Spence, discuss 2 Chronicles 10-13 and talk about Rehoboam's life and explore the impact of Rehoboam's disobedience to God. In looking at Rehoboam's life, we learn the importance of trusting fully in the Lord and see His consistent faithfulness to His people.  Additional References: 2 Timothy 2:13; 1 Kings 11:9-13 Learn more about Watermark Student Ministries: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/students Student sign up to serve at Camp Barnabas: https://www.watermark.org/events/6489-camp-barnabas-2025

Transcribed - Published: 30 April 2025

Who was Solomon and how was his reign distinguished from others? In today's episode, Noah Schatz is back with our host, Emma Dotter. They discuss King Solomon's reign, character, and what made him so different from other kings.  Additional Scripture Referenced: 1 Kings 11 Check out Noah's previous episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-040-numbers-35-36/id1600151923?i=1000692503623 Come join us for The Porch on Tuesday nights: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/the-porch

Transcribed - Published: 29 April 2025

In today’s episode, Emma breaks down the purpose of the temple in 2 Chronicles 1-5, and the how all the temple details ties back to Christ. Interested in working at Watermark? See our open positions here: https://www.watermark.org/about/jobs-at-watermark

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2025

Today's the 100th Day of Year of the Word! In today's special 100th episode, Emma Dotter and Associate Pastor, David Penuel, discuss three ways you can apply 1 Chronicles 25-29 to your life here at Watermark Community Church.  Additional References: Romans 12:4-8; Ephesians 4; 1 Chronicles 29:11-13 Learn how to serve at Watermark: https://www.watermark.org/serving-at-watermark Interested in working at Watermark? See our open positions here: https://www.watermark.org/about/jobs-at-watermark To worship the Lord in joyful giving, go to https://www.watermark.org/giving

Transcribed - Published: 26 April 2025

In today's episode, Emma Dotter helps us understand who the Philistine giants, where they came from, and the picture they give of our salvation. These chapters remind us to trust in the better David, Jesus, for our victory of the giant of sin and death. Jesus has already won this battle through the cross, and we can rest in that victory!  Scriptures Referenced: 1 Samuel 17:4; Romans 8:37 Come celebrate 100 days of reading the Bible together with us! https://www.watermark.org/events/6472-celebrating-100-days-of-families-reading-the-bible

Transcribed - Published: 25 April 2025

In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Bill Roberson about 1 Chronicles 14-19 and talk about how God used David through the Davidic covenant and how we are also used by God when we live by faith in Christ. Additional References: John 12:24; John 15:5 Come celebrate 100 days of reading the Bible together with us! https://www.watermark.org/events/6472-celebrating-100-days-of-families-reading-the-bible

Transcribed - Published: 24 April 2025

What are the differences between Kings and Chronicles? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark Elder, Todd Anders, about 1 Chronicles 9-13 and discusses the differences how Kings and Chronicles may share similar stories, but they are written to different audiences and from different perspectives.  Come celebrate 100 days of reading the Bible together with us! https://www.watermark.org/events/6472-celebrating-100-days-of-families-reading-the-bible

Transcribed - Published: 23 April 2025

In today's episode, Zach Seitz talks with long time Watermark member, Braun Brown about 1 Chronicles 5-8. Braun helps us understand the tribe of Manasseh, and how they "whored" after other gods, rather than the one true God. We too can be tempted to place other things above God in our lives and today's episode is a good reminder to evaluate what those things may be.  Additional Scriptures: Romans 5:8; Genesis 32; Psalm 16:9; 1 Peter 2; Psalm 73:28 Come celebrate 100 days of reading the Bible together with us! https://www.watermark.org/events/6472-celebrating-100-days-of-families-reading-the-bible

Transcribed - Published: 22 April 2025

Why are the first four chapters of 1 Chronicles geneologies? What is the importance of geneologies and how should we think about them? Today, Seth Mather discusses 1 Chronicles 1-4 and helps us to understand the geneologies we see in the first 9 chapters of 1 Chronicles, and how they show God continued love for His people.  Come celebrate 100 days of reading the Bible together with us! https://www.watermark.org/events/6472-celebrating-100-days-of-families-reading-the-bible

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2025

In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses 2 Kings 22-25, where the kingdom of Judah falls into exile due to their sin and disobedience to God. These chapters remind us that even kings can not outrun the destruction of sin and that we are all in need of the better king, Jesus.  Join us for Easter at Watermark! https://www.watermark.org/easter-2025

Transcribed - Published: 19 April 2025

 In today's episode, Zach Seitz and Watermark member, Julie Breedlove, discuss 2 Kings 20:8-11 and Hezekiah's trust in the Lord, even in the face of great adversity. We can learn from Hezekiah's reliance on the Lord that God is faithful to his people, and to us, despite our sin.  Join us for Easter at Watermark! https://www.watermark.org/easter-2025

Transcribed - Published: 18 April 2025

How do we view the imperfect split kingdom in light of the eternal kingdom that we are promised in 2 Samuel 7? Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Nate Alvis, about 2 Kings 15-17. They discuss the Davidic covenant and how Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of this covenant.  Join us for Easter at Watermark! https://www.watermark.org/easter-2025 Learn more about our Middle School ministry: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/wake Come celebrate 100 Days of reading the Bible with us! https://www.watermark.org/events/6472-celebrating-100-days-of-families-reading-the-bible

Transcribed - Published: 17 April 2025

How does the man who touches Elisha come back to life? In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson talks with Watermark member, David Hope about 2 Kings 10-14, specifically 2 Kings 13. David discusses the events of the man coming back to life, God's display of power, and how we view this in light of Easter.  Hear more from David Hope: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s3-036-ecclesiastes-8/id1600151923?i=1000645850556 Join us for Easter at Watermark! https://www.watermark.org/easter-2025

Transcribed - Published: 16 April 2025

In today's episode, Graham Shelby discusses 2 Kings 9-10 and the life of king Jehu. Graham helps us understand how we can have zeal for God, yet balance our external zeal for Him with our internal adoration of Him.  Additional References: Titus 2:14; Mark 12:29-30; Romans 12:11; Colossians 3:23; Psalm 27:4; 2 Cor. 3:18; Hebrews 10:24 Join us for Easter at Watermark! https://www.watermark.org/easter-2025

Transcribed - Published: 15 April 2025

Who was Naaman and what can we learn from the story of his healing? How do we grow a heart for suffering? As we kick off our study of the book of 2 Kings, Graham Shelby, Watermark’s College Ministry Director, takes off the podcast to talk about Naaman’s Leprosy. Graham previously taught today’s chapters at Watermark’s Men’s Bible Study!  To hear a more in-depth teaching on today’s passage check out Graham’s Men’s Bible Study Message: https://www.watermark.org/message/11998-lesson-12-2-kings-5-8-spring-2025 For More Information on Watermark’s College Ministry, Rally: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/college Join us for our FREE celebration of 100 days reading the Bible together in 2025! Get more information: https://www.watermark.org/events/6472-celebrating-100-days-of-families-reading-the-bible Join us for Easter at Watermark! https://www.watermark.org/easter-2025  Check out the Journey Junior Podcast on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898?i=1000702456723 Check out the Journey Junior Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=839144fb7c89439f  For more information about Join The Journey check out: www.JoinTheJourney.com 

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025

What are we to make of the Lord permitting lying spirits to deceive people? How can God send a lying spirit? Who or what is the lying spirit? And what are we to make of King Ahab’s life?  In today’s episode, Emma Dotter walks us through the over arching story of King Ahab’s life and takes a look at a few of the toughest verses in today’s reading in 1 Kings.  Join us for Easter at Watermark! https://www.watermark.org/easter-2025

Transcribed - Published: 12 April 2025

Why is Elijah so important? Today, Emma Dotter and Zach Seitz discuss who Elijah was and also discuss the role of prophets in the Old Testament. Emma and Zach talk through the significant events of 2 Kings 18 and Elijah's question to God's people, "Who will you follow?"  Come celebrate 100 Days of Reading the Bible with us! https://www.watermark.org/events/6472-celebrating-100-days-of-families-reading-the-bible Got Questions article: https://www.gotquestions.org/prophet-Old-Testament.html

Transcribed - Published: 11 April 2025

In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Dre Williams, about 1 Kings 11-14. They answer the questions: "is God unjust to kill someone who was deceived?" and  "why is the Man of God responsible for being deceived?" Join us for Easter at Watermark! https://www.watermark.org/easter-2025 Come celebrate 100 Days of Reading the Bible with us! https://www.watermark.org/events/6472-celebrating-100-days-of-families-reading-the-bible Learn more about Re:gen: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/regeneration-recovery

Transcribed - Published: 10 April 2025

In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses 1 Kings 8-10 and the warnings that are given by God to his people during the dedication of the temple. Emma examines King Solomon and helps us see the importance of continued reliance on God, even with success, wealth, or fame. 

Transcribed - Published: 9 April 2025

In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks about 1 Kings 5 and discusses the building of the temple. Emma helps us understand the relationship between the temple and the presence of God and how, through Jesus, we are considered temples of the Holy Spirit.  Additional References: 2 Corithians 4:7; John 1:29; Hebrews 9:12; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 2 Peter 1:3 Join us for Easter at Watermark! https://www.watermark.org/easter-2025

Transcribed - Published: 8 April 2025

How do we reconcile Solomon's ask for wisdom with the decisions that he makes later on in scripture? In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson talks with Valerie Klimko about Solomon's progression in his faith and how we too are tempted to give into our flesh and in need of the greater king, Jesus.  Addition Scriptures: James 1:5; Proverbs 4:23

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2025