Join The Journey

What's the deal with incense? What is the role of incense in the Bible? In today's episode, Ben Krejci talks with Watermark Worship Pastor, Jon Abel, about Psalms 137-143. Jon helps us understand why incense is referenced in the Psalms and it's role in other places in Scripture. Additional References: Exodus 30:1-10; 34-38Respond in worship with Psalm 139 by Leeland: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrvDfU65vCQ

What's the deal with the oil on the head? Why do people raise their hands in worship? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Elijah Westover, about Psalms 131-136 to answer these questions. Additional References: James 5:14; Psalm 23:5; Exodus 29:7; 1 Kings 8:54; Psalm 141:2; Lamentations 3:14; 1 Timothy 2:8; Colossians 3:16Respond in worship with Psalm 34 by Shane & Shane: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yOzf0VrDNGU

What are the the Psalms of Ascent? Why are they significant to God's people? Today, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Bri Carlisle about Psalms 120-130 and the journey that God's people made to Jerusalem where they would sing these Psalms. Bri reminds us that these Psalms point to the never changing character of God and his love for us, even when we don't deserve it. Respond in worship with Psalm 130 by Shane and Shane: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=l8pCbtLeXzc&t=32m39s

Why is Psalm 119 so long? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Aaden Jones, talk about Psalm 119 and unpack why this is the longest chapter in the whole Bible.Respond in worship with:Who Else? by The Worship Initiative (feat. Hayden Browning): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FazTNF_zy28Thy Word by Ellie Holcomb: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmFzKYa6EHU

What are the headings of each section and what do they mean? Today Emma Dotter is joined by Watermark worship leader Grace Kerbel to walk through Psalm 115-118 and how we can daily remind ourselves of the goodness of God.Additional Scripture referenced:Deuteronomy 10:8-9 – the role of the LevitesNumbers 18:20 – the Lord is the Levites' portion and inheritancePsalm 16:5; Lamentations 3:24 – additional references to "the land of the living" referring to the Levites' provision Respond in worship with:Goodness of God by The Worship Initiative: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BgoPHQNTy0MO Praise the Name by Shane and Shane: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xiDRiWGWFOUCornerstone by The Worship Initiative: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQ56i6XKhKkLearn more about the headings in the Bible here: https://www.gotquestions.org/divided-Bible-chapters-verses.htmlRead this article on David's view of "the land of the living": https://www.gotquestions.org/land-of-the-living.htmlCheck out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898

What does the reference to Melchizedek mean in Psalm 110? Today on the podcast, Seth Master walks through Psalm 108-114 and shows how this points to our ultimate perfect King and Great High Priest, Jesus Christ. Additional Scripture Referenced: Hebrews 7 – the order of MelchizedekRespond in worship with Before the Throne of God Above by The Worship Initiative: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BozHkGMTlYI

In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Macie Snowden, talk about Psalm 103-107, where we see God's goodness is repeatedly praised and proclaimed. Macie reminds us that God's character is always good, faithful, and worthy of praise. Even if God never answered our prayers or gave us the desires of our heart, he would still be worthy of praise because of his character. Respond in worship with Bless God by Brooke Ligertwood: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gK0fbhGdX4A

Why are we urged to praise the Lord? In today’s podcast, Emma Dotter and faithful Watermark member and Worship Initiative staff member, Travis Warren, discuss Psalms 96 through 102. As we focus on God’s character, we can remember God's care for us and respond rightly to Him through obedience and praise.Check out Psalm 73 (As For Me) by the Worship Initiative on YouTube!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZp2k7AcHh8 Check out Psalm 100 (Enter In) by People and Songs on YouTube!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OjgdKWbD0xE 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

What does it look like to "have a great week of worship"? In today's episode, Ben Krejci talks with Watermark Worship Director, Hayden Browning about Psalms 90-95. Hayden dives into Psalm 92 and shows us why it is good for us to worship God in song, not just on Sundays in large gathering, but every day in our individual lives. Respond in worship with Psalm 90 by Shane and Shane: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PCDNZwMRYfo

What does it mean to have an undivided heart, and how do we get to that place? In today’s episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark worship leader, Davy Leffall, discuss the story and scripture behind the song, Undivided Heart. Davy talks about how Psalm 86 demonstrates that we need the Holy Spirit at work in us to produce this heart posture. Additional Scripture Referenced:Ephesians 1:4, “even as He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world…”Respond in worship with Undivided Heart by Watermark Music: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DnqIokstZcwCheck out the Join The Journey Devotionals here!https://www.jointhejourney.com/

Ever wonder if God is depriving his people of anything good? Today Emma Dotter is joined by Watermark staff member Shelby Carnefix to discuss Psalm 79-85. God is faithful and good, and yet sometimes life is hard. Shelby shares how lament leads us to worship and recount his goodness to us. Spend time reflecting on these questions today: Where are the good things that God is providing for me that I may not be seeing?What do I need to bring before the Lord so that I can experience the fullness of his joy?Respond in worship with Psalm 84 (Better is One Day) by The Worship Initiative: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hoQmnCvT2g0To hear more of Shelby's story, check out her previous episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-131-psalm-1-8/id1600151923?i=1000710852348&l=pt-BR

Who or what is Leviathan? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark keyboardist, Sam Garner. Sam helps us understand what the Bible is referring to when it mentions "Leviathan."Respond in worship with Psalm 74 by Poor Bishop Hooper: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BJlYonOPsUY

What can we learn from the imagery in Psalm 72? Join us as Cassie Mattina walks us through her takeaways from Psalm 72.Additional References: Psalm 30; Psalm 34; 2 Timothy 2:13Respond in worship with Psalm 73 (As For Me) by The Worship Initiative: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jZp2k7AcHh8

What does God's care for all the nations teach us about Him? Today Emma Dotter is joined by Watermark worship leader Josh ONeal to talk through how we see God's heart through the nations in Psalm 66-69. God works both through Israel's faithfulness and unfaithfulness to reveal His desire for all nations to know Him. Respond in worship with: Come and See (Psalm 66) by Shane and Shane: Come and See (Psalm 66) (Live)Kingdom Kids and Great Things by Phil Whickham: Phil Wickham - Great Things (Official Lyric Video)Additional passages referenced:Exodus 19:6 – Israel is to be a holy nationPsalm 60:8 – Moab referred to as a "washbasin" Ruth 1:16 – Ruth's commitment to God2 Kings 5 – the story of NaamanEzekiel 18 – God does not delight in the death of the wicked

In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses Psalms 58-63 with Watermark member, Callie Nixon. Callie talks about how these Psalms show examples of honest, raw prayers to God and expressions of deep desire for knowing God. Callie encourages us to examine our own hearts and see which we need to express to the Lord. Respond in worship with Psalm 63 by Shane and Shane: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UdS6fFDf170

In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with another Watermark worship team member, Tricia Griffin about Psalms 50-51. Tricia helps us see how these Psalms of David help lead us into a right understanding of our sin and the importance of genuine repentance to God. Respond in worship with Awake My Soul (Psalm 57) by Worship Initiative: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmfRRdSm2us

How do we worship when life gets hard? Today, Emma Dotter talks with Michel Clements about Psalms 43-49, discussing what a lament is and how we can trust God in the midst of difficulty and suffering. Re:engage: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/re-engageRe:gen: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/regeneration-recoveryRespond in worship with All My Questions by Bethany Barnard: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVPHLzh_SwI&list=PLUUCL4MbaGVXAItrO8yX19mlqhI9WEwjBDark Clouds, Deep Mercies by Mark Vroegop: https://a.co/d/f4ctoBV

In today's Watermark Worship Takeover, Zach Seitz talks with Watermark worship team member Robbie Vedreen about Psalms 37-42 and talk about how we should respond when God doesn't immediate heal our physical ailments adn encourage us to remmeber that communion with God is the greatest gift we could ever receive from him. Additional References: Matthew 13:44; Matthew 5:20; Matthew 6Respond in worship with Psalm 42 by Shane and Shane: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1Gd-FoNLuI

What does it mean to taste of the Lord's goodness? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Jeremy Jaqua, and discuss the 4 pathways to tasting of the Lord's goodness found in Psalms 31-36. Respond in worship with Psalm 34 by Shane and Shane: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DciMh_ciwkk

In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Brittnee Estes about Psalm 26 and answer the question, "why would I want the Lord to test my heart?" Brittnee helps us understand that through trial, God is proving or showing us something about ourselves. Got questions quote and article: https://www.gotquestions.org/why-does-God-test-us.htmlRespond in worship with Psalm 24 (King of Glory) by Keith and Kristyn Getty: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GTj2DA9JWoTo sign up to serve with Watermark Kids: https://www.watermark.org/serving-at-watermark

When I pray, what if I feel like my requests aren't being fulfilled? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark worship team member, Will Edwards talk about Psalms 18-23 and discuss how God is still near to us, even when we feel like he isn't hearing our prayers. Respond in worship with Good Plans by Red Rocks Worship: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-3lMrhm8HQ

In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Jordan Sieben discuss Psalms 9-17 in this Worship takeover episode. Jordan discusses the emotions seen throughout these Psalms and the importance of our words being honoring to the Lord. Additional references: Proverbs 12:18, 18:21; James 3:5-6Respond in worship with Psalm 13 by Hannah Hardin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNGy2ZrZPxA

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

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

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 9:2-3To connect with Refuge: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/refugeTo connect with any of our care ministries, you can email [email protected] purchase Suffering by Paul David Tripp: https://a.co/d/8cyXiEk

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-hopeTo learn more about MENd: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/mend

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

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 7To connect with Careers in Motion: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/careers-in-motion

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-recoveryTo learn about Divorce Care for Kids: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/kids-and-teens-divorce-recovery

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 30:15-16To connect with our ministry Shiloh visit https://www.watermark.org/ministries/shilohChristopher Ash Book: Trusting God in the Darkness: https://a.co/d/cqv3eof

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 11:28-30Worth More: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/after-abortion-careFor more information about Prodigal: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/the-prodigal

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/shilohTo sign up your child for Kaleidoscope: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/kaleidoscopeChristopher Ash Book: Trusting God in the Darkness: https://a.co/d/cqv3eof

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 5:7-11Interested 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

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

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/refugeChristopher Ash Book: Trusting God in the Darkness: https://a.co/d/cqv3eof

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-recoveryChristopher Ash Book: Trusting God in the Darkness: https://a.co/d/cqv3eofA Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis: https://a.co/d/71rXrVe

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

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

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.

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 22:13Men's and Women's Bible Study link Got Questions article: https://www.gotquestions.org/Feast-of-Tabernacles.html

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-watermarkLink to TA's message at Breakaway: https://vimeo.com/259378761

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

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 7Check 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

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 1:22-25Check 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

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

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/collegeScriptures Referenced: Romans 1:24; 2 Samuel 7; Isaiah 45:1To learn more about king Cyrus: https://www.compellingtruth.org/Cyrus-in-the-Bible.htm

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-studyLearn more about Women's Bible Study! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/womens-bible-studyTo listen to T.A.'s Easter message: https://www.watermark.org/message/11900-easter-2025-2-kings-23

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-studyTo learn more about Women's Bible Study: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/womens-bible-study

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

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