Join The Journey

Today Emma Dotter is joined by Watermark sent missionaries Isaac and Kacie Mann to talk through 1 Samuel 23-25 and highlight what God has been doing as they serve in Indonesia. Listen to hear how we read this text in light of Christ, the ultimate Anointed One, and how we can respond in light of his Kingship in our lives. How do we respond to the King?

In today's episode, Watermark's Student Director, Jermaine Harrison, talks with Shoreline Director, Will McIlroy about 1 Samuel 20-22. They dive into an understanding of the laws around the holy bread and whether it was a sin for David to eat it. They examine the Scripture to uncover the true heart of God within this story.Additional References:Lev. 24:5-9; Matthew 12; 2 Corinthians 3; Deuteronomy 6:4-6; 1 John 4:19Find out about Shoreline! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/shoreline

In today's episode, Zach Seitz talks with Watermark member Hank Hoaglund discuss the events of 1 Samuel 18-19, and David's responses through Psalms to Saul's actions against him. We see David's faith in God regardless of the sufferings he was experiences.

What are we to make of the spirit of the Lord departing from Saul? What is the harmful spirit tormenting him? In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses 1 Samuel 16-17 and shares insights into this story. Additional References: Exodus 35:8; 1 Kings 6; 1 Corinthians 3:16; John 16:7-11; John 3:8; Ephesians 1:13-14Link to Got Questions: https://www.gotquestions.org/evil-spirit-Saul.htmlLink Watermark's doctrinal statement on the Holy Spirit: https://www.watermark.org/about/full-doctrinal-statement

In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson discusses 1 Samuel 14-15 and answers the question "If God regretted his action in making Saul king, does that mean God makes mistakes?" Lauren looks at this passage in light of the whole story and God's promise of the perfect king.

In today's episode Bobby Durning and Seth Master talk through 1 Samuel 12:17-18 answering the questions: Why was it an evil thing for the Israelites to ask God for a king? How should we think about Samuel's warning to the people?Additional References: Genesis 2:15-17; Exodus 20:1-20; Numbers 7:8-9Listen to Seth's previous episode! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s3-175-psalm-90/id1600151923?i=1000668453167

In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson talks with Watermark Institute member Zach Seitz about 1 Samuel 8-10, where the Israelites ask God for an earthly king, demonstrating their lack of trust in God's faithfulness and plan for His people. Additional References: Exodus 19:6; Ezekiel 36:26Learn about the Watermark Institute: https://www.watermarkresources.com/ministries/instituteListen to Zach's previous episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-059-judges-1-4/id1600151923?i=1000698560215

In today's episode Lauren Atkinson talks with Watermark member Noah Taylor from Watermark South Dallas about 1 Samuel 5-7 discussing who Samuel's role and authority as a prophet. They also discuss the importance of repentance in our heart posture toward the Lord.Check out Watermark South Dallas! https://www.watermark.org/southdallas

In today's episode, Women's Community Director, Mandy Sisco, talks with Watermark member Brittany Dunn about Hannah's experience in 1 Samuel 1 with infertility and how you can hold deep pain and deep trust in the Lord at the same time.Additional scripture referenced:Romans 8:28, Psalm 23, Psalm 6To learn more about Watermark's Shiloh ministry, check out this link: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/shiloh

In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Join the Journey assistant, Nina Durning, discuss the book of Ruth. They break down what is happening when Ruth "uncovers Boaz's feet" and how this small story connects to God's grander story of Jesus being our ultimate redeemer. Got Questions Article on Ruth: https://www.gotquestions.org/spread-corner-garment.html

In today's episode, Sierra Sanchez, Women's Director for Re:generation, talks about Gibeah's crime and how God is the ultimate comforter to those who have experienced destruction and pain from this world. For those who have experienced abuse, may this episode be an encouragement to you that Jesus can redeem your story and desires to be close to you. Hear more from Sierra: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s2-032-genesis-34/id1600151923?i=1000599525958To find out about Courageous Hope: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/courageous-hopeTo find out about MENd: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/mendTo learn more about re:Gen: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/regeneration-recovery

Triumph or tragedy? How should we think about Samson's successes and mistakes? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Lauren Atkinson discuss this story and how Samson's choices reflect his heart and spiritual sight for the Lord. Additional References: Isaiah 53

What was the Nazarite vow? In today's episode, Emma Dotter explains what the Nazarite vow was and how Samson's vow was broken repeatedly, and yet, God did not disqualify him from being used for God's purposes. Additional References:2 Corinthians 12:9

How do we make sense of God sending an evil spirit to Abimelech? In today’s episode, Join the Journey staff member Lauren Atkinson and Watermark staff member Ethan Howard discuss the downward cycle of the Israelite nation due to unfaithfulness and how God shows His glory and fulfills His good plan despite the sinfulness of man. If God is sovereign over evil, then He can redeem evil and use it for our good and His glory. Additional Scripture Referenced:Genesis 50:20, “As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today.”Check out one of Ethan’s previous episodes!https://open.spotify.com/episode/1zU4c8GCe3F6gRmJWgKblX?si=2860431843464aa4Check 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

Why does God indulge Gideon's constant doubting? What's this about a female judge? Today Emma Dotter is joined by Watermark member Ben Brown to examine Gideon and Deborah's life and faith in Judges 5-8. The fleece was not just about Gideon testing God's power but questioning God's presence. Faith isn't about having all the answers but trusting the One who does. Gideon and Deborah's stories reminds us that though God's choices may not always make logical sense to us, God shows his grace and power using imperfect people. Additional Scriptures Referenced: Matthew 12:38-42 – sign for what God has already done

What is happening during the beginning of Judges? Why are the judges necessary? Today Emma Dotter is joined with Watermark Institute student Zach Seitz to talk through Judges 1-4. Despite the cycle of sin and unrepentance, we can read it in light of the hope found in Christ. Find out more about the Watermark Institute: https://www.watermarkresources.com/ministries/institute

Why does Joshua say the people are not able to obey God? Listen as Lauren Atkinson and Katie Shemanske recap the book of Joshua, discussing how the people remember and respond to who God is and how our response to him ought to be one of obedience. Check out Katie's former episode! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-209-acts-20/id1600151923?i=1000583260101

How can we understand the boundaries of the land today? Today, Emma Dotter helps us understand the established boundaries of the land in Joshua 18-20 and how God's boundaries are given to us for our good and to show God's faithfulness in his promises.

In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Rob Barry, about Caleb in Joshua 14-17. Rob discusses Caleb's faithfulness to the Lord, despite the consequences of Israel's disobedience. Additional References: Joshua 1:8; Joshua 3:10; Joshua 13; Matthew 28:20

"In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson talks with Watermark member Dylan Jackson about Joshua 10-13. They discuss what the Book of Jasher was and why it is referenced in Joshua. Learn how to serve at Watermark: https://www.watermark.org/serving-at-watermark Learn more about Merge: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/merge"

How can the God of the Old Testament be good with all this death and destruction? What was the deal with Achan's sin? In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses Joshua 6:21 and 7:24-25, answering these questions. Emma talks about Israel's greatest mistake in these passages — not seeking the counsel of God during these events.

In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Scott Jackson, Watermark missionary to Argentina, about their work in Argentina and the first few chapters of Joshua! They discuss Rahab and the commander of the Lord's army, their stories, and why their stories are significant.

In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson finishes our time in Deuteronomy by discussing how Deuteronomy 33-34 is recalling the teachings established earlier in the book, while looking ahead to the future that is to come for God's people.

What does it mean for the commandment and word of God to be near to us? In today’s episode, Watermark staff member Shane Rasch speaks about the power of Scripture and His Spirit in transforming our lives. Additional Scripture Referenced: 1 John 5:3, “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome.” Interested in Merge? Check out the link below! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/merge 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

Does the Lord bring ruin upon his people? Today, Emma Dotter and Lauren Atkinson discuss Deuteronomy 28:63 & 29:29, and help us understand these challenging verses. Emma’s View: https://www.gotquestions.org/old-covenant.html Garrett’s View: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/essay/progressive-covenantalism-and-new-covenant-theology/ Gather25 Information! https://www.gather25.com/

In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson and Community Formation Director, Ryan Garrahan, discuss Deuteronomy 26-27 and answer the question: "What's up with all these curses?" Scriptures Referenced: 1 Chronicles 29; Joshua 8; Romans 3:10-11 Check out Ryan's previous episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s2-242-isaiah-7-14-luke-1-5-45/id1600151923?i=1000638296374 To get involved in a Community Group, check out our Community Formation events! https://www.watermark.org/events/6429-men-s-and-women-s-community-formation To learn more about MoneyWise and financial stewardship: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/moneywise

What does it mean for the Israelites to blot out the memory of Amalek, but not forget? In today’s episode, Watermark’s staff member Emily Hope and JTJ staff Lauren Atkinson discuss the purpose of the law in revealing God’s character and regulating the Israelites’ behavior to protect them and help them flourish. Later in Deuteronomy 25, God tells the Israelites to remove the presence of the evil Amalekites. It was an ethical cleansing, not an ethnic cleansing that revealed God’s holiness and character. Like them, we are also before a holy God in dire need for Christ to cover our sins. Additional Scripture Referenced: Exodus 17:8-16 – Amalek and his men attack the Israelites 1 Samuel 15:9 - Saul preserves the Amalekites – He does not obey God’s full command 1 Samuel 30:17 – David obeys God’s command to wipe out the Amalekites, but some escape 1 Chronicles 4:43 – Hezekiah completely wipes out the Amalekites Exodus 34:6-7, “That is, the Lord passed in front of Moses and said, “Yahweh, the Lord, is a kind and merciful God. He is slow to become angry. He is full of great love. He can be trusted. He shows his faithful love to thousands of people. He forgives people for the wrong things they do, but he does not forget to punish guilty people. Not only will he punish the guilty people, but their children, their grandchildren, and their great-grandchildren will also suffer for the bad things these people do.” Interested in Watermark’s Women’s Bible Study? Check out the link below! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/womens-bible-study Here is the link to the Watermark Men’s Bible Study! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/mens-bible-study Check out Emily’s story in this previous episode! https://open.spotify.com/episode/15MR5uMD3ayvfI8cdZRPQG?si=16a8d652726241b2 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

In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson talked with Men's Community Director Kyle Aaron about Deuteronomy 21-23. They answer the questions, "How do we make sense of the laws about marrying female captives? Why would God command rebellious adulterers to be put to death?" Scriptures Referenced: John 8; Galatians 3:13

Today, Emma Dotter is joined by Watermark’s Director of Equipping and Apologetics, Garrett Wikle, to talk through how Deuteronomy 17-20 informs our reading of the whole Bible. Listen as we see how these verses set us up to look for the one coming King, Jesus Christ, the perfect King who rules with all authority in heaven and on earth.

Deuteronomy 16:18 - What types of judges were appointed at this time in Israel's history?

How do we make sense of God testing the Israelites by sending false prophets? In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson and Watermark staff member, Parker Primrose, discuss Deuteronomy 13:3 and 9-10 to answer this question. To learn more about how to Foster and Adopt in Dallas: https://www.watermark.org/events/6419-foster-care-and-adoption-info-meeting Hear more from Parker! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-014-exodus-10-13/id1600151923?i=1000684216766

In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Shoreline Director, Will McIlroy discuss Deuteronomy 7-10 and discuss how we should think about God's discipline.

In today's episode, Watermark member Seth Master discusses Deuteronomy 4:24 and answers the question, "What does it mean for God to be a jealous God?"

In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson and Watermark staff member Emily Hope discuss the start of Deuteronomy. Emily explains Deuteronomy 2:30,34 & 3:6 and answers the question "Why do the Israelites 'devote the people to destruction'?" Additional Scriptures: Exodus 34:6-7 Learn more about Women's Bible Study: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/womens-bible-study

In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark staff member, Noah Schatz, about Numbers 35-36. They explore the cities of refuge, what their purpose served, and why they were important. Noah explains how these cities refuge are a picture of the freedom and refuge we find in Christ. Check out the Porch for Young Adults: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/the-porch

In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses Numbers 34 and answers the question, "what can we learn from the boundaries God sets?"

Content Warning: May not be an appropriate topic for children. In today's episode, Emma Dotter discusses the events of Numbers 31:13-18, answering the question: "how do we make sense of all this killing, specifically, the instruction surrounding children?" Emma also addresses how God is still good, even with having given these commands.

Why are the daughters of Zelophehad significant? What do they teach us about God's heart/character? In today’s episode, Emma Dotter is joined by faithful Watermark college student Sam Curtis as they discuss God’s response to the financial insecurity of Zelophehad’s daughters and His kindness in protecting them. Additional Scripture Referenced: Hebrews 3:3 – “For Jesus has been counted worthy of more glory than Moses—as much more glory as the builder of a house has more honor than the house itself.” Hebrews 7:25 – “Consequently, he is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 4:15-16 – “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Interested in Watermark’s College Ministry? Check out the link below! https://www.watermark.org/ministries/college 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

In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson talks with Watermark member Reese Tomberlin about Num 25:4-9 and discuss the events where 24,000 people died. They discuss how we should hink about events like this in light of God's character and his purpose for his people. Additional Scriptures: Exodus 19:6, Exodus 20 Check out Reese's former episode! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s3-014-proverbs-15/id1600151923?i=1000642081892

In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson discusses the events of Numbers 20-22. Lauren addressed Numbers 20:12, and why God didn't allow Moses to enter the Promise Land. Check out Join the Journey Jr. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898

In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson discusses Numbers 17-19, answering the question "What's the significance of the Red Heifer?" Lauren explores how the red heifer points to Jesus' sacrifice for us for the forgiveness of our sin. TA's Book Recommendation: Christ from Beginning to End - https://a.co/d/0M8MmfW

In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Join the Journey editor Will Gullette discuss Numbers 14:18 & 16:45, answering the question, "How do we make sense of God's love and grace alongside his justice?" Additional Scripture references: 1 Peter 3:15-16, Acts 7:39, Hebrews 3:13, Galatians 3:24 TA's Book Recommendation: Christ from Beginning to End - https://a.co/d/0M8MmfW Check out some of Will's former Episodes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s2-077-exodus-37/id1600151923?i=1000610533341 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s3-195-psalm-110/id1600151923?i=1000671651544

In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson talks with Watermark staff member, Robin Dutton, about Numbers 10-13, focusing on Miriam's leprosy and how Miriam's experience with leprosy is a picture of God's mercy and grace in His people's lives. Check out Robin's former episode! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s2-219-2-kings-23/id1600151923?i=1000634245664

In today's episode, Lauren Atkinson talks with Watermark member Jim Wimberly about Numbers 7-9. They discuss Numbers 8 and what the Bible instructs regarding retirement. They discuss how we are given two jobs, one of which is a big job from the God that we never retire from. Jim gives examples from his life of how he hasn't retired from the work of spreading the Gospel.

Join Emma Dotter as she unpacks the Nazarite vow from Numbers 4-6—a voluntary act of consecration to the Lord, open to both men and women, with specific commitments and a sacrificial conclusion. Listen in and think through these questions: What does it mean to be set apart? How is your heart posture toward pursuing holiness? How are you intentionally living a holy life by surrendering to the Spirit’s leadership?

Today Emma Dotter breaks down Numbers 1-3 and establishes fundamental building blocks to understand the book of Numbers. What are the 12 tribes of Israel and what role do the Levites play? Listen in to find out.

In this episode, Christy Chermak sits down with Anna Hughes, NP, and Katherine Gomez, NP, from Watermark Health to dive into Leviticus 25-27 and the significance of the spring feasts. Together, they explore themes of God’s justice, mercy, and provision, drawing connections between Scripture and their work in healthcare. To learn more about serving with Watermark Health, check out this link: https://www.watermarkhealth.org/serve

In this episode, Christy Chermak explores the biblical feasts and how they reveal God’s heart for rest, provision, and care for the poor. From the Sabbath in the Ten Commandments to the Feast of Weeks—when the Holy Spirit came in the New Testament—she unpacks how these rhythms invite us into remembrance and celebration. Through stories like Boaz and Ruth, we see how God’s law makes space for both gratitude and those who are hurting, reminding us of His deep love and protection for the vulnerable. Additional Scripture Referenced Matthew 7 – parable about the house being built on the rock and not the sand Hebrews 4 – Christ is the fulfillment of the Law

In today's episode, Christy Chermak, Executive Director of Watermark Health talks with registered nurse and Director of Clinical Service Lines, Paige Delgado discuss the laws in Leviticus 15-20 around cleanliness of body, sexual sin, and the Day of Atonement. We see how the Day of Atonement foreshadows the coming of Jesus and His being the final atonement for our sin. For more information about Watermark Health: https://www.watermark.org/health

Today, in Watermark Health third takeover episode, Christy Chermak talks with Dr. Providence Okaalet about Leviticus 11-14, the Mosaic healthcode of 1450BC and other laws around cleanliness, and how these laws set his people apart from other people, and how it relates to us today. Additional Scriptures referenced: 1 Corinthans 10:23, Acts 10 To find out how to serve with Watermark Health: https://www.watermarkhealth.org/serve To learn more about the Wellness Collective: https://www.watermarkhealth.org/wellness-collective-2024