What is the significance of Jerusalem for believers today? Today Emma Dotter is joined by Watermark staff member Matt Farlow to discuss how we relate to the traditions of the ancient Israelites while not being steeped in the tradition of the Jewish faith today. Even though we don’t hold fast to Jewish traditions as Christians, we can look at them and understand how they were completed in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Grab a Psalms Join The Journey Journal for 2024: https://a....
Oct 22, 2024•9 min
Where does our help come from? In today’s episode, Emma Dotter and faithful Watermark South Dallas member Jewel Blackwood cover Psalm 121 and discuss how David put his hope in God as his keeper and protector. Through Jesus, we have even more reason to hope because we always have God by our side living in us and protecting us. Additional Scripture Referenced: 1 Corinthians 3:16, “Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you?” Interested in volunteering for the Fal...
Oct 21, 2024•11 min
As believers we can read these psalms of ascent and be reminded of God's presence and His faithfulness. Today, Lauren Atkinson encourages us as she shares that we find our home in Christ and He is the justifier of those who are found in him. Additional scripture mentioned in today's episode: Jeremiah 29; Seek the peace Romans 12; Live peaceably with all Hebrews 11; They desire a better country Grab a Psalms Join The Journey Journal for 2024: https://a.co/d/7rt0H3g Got kids? Check out the NEW Joi...
Oct 18, 2024•8 min
How does the law of the Old Testament apply to our lives today? In today’s episode covering Psalm 119:89-176, Lauren Atkinson and Watermark staff member Ben Krejci talk about delighting in the law of the Lord and how it shows us both God’s character and our need for Him. Additional Scripture Referenced: Psalm 1, Delighting in God’s law Psalm 13:1-2, “How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I take counsel in my soul and have sorrow in ...
Oct 17, 2024•13 min
What do the heading titles in our Bible mean? Today, Emma Dotter is joined by faithful Watermark member Noah Treanseau to talk about the importance of noticing structure and organization in our Bibles, especially in Psalm 119:1-88. The acrostic nature of Psalm 119 communicates the comprehensive nature of God's Word. Even when there are things we don't fully understand about the Bible, we can trust God and bring our questions to Him. The fact that we don't have all the answers draws us to the One...
Oct 16, 2024•12 min
Today Lauren Atkinson joins Emma Dotter to teach us how to read scripture in light of Christ. Psalm 118 is a Messianic psalm where we see that Jesus is the full and final passover lamb sacrifice who came to take away the sins of the world by dying for them Himself. Additional Scripture mentioned in today’s episode: Colossians 2:3, “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” John 1:14, “The Word became flesh” 2 Corinthians 5:21, “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no ...
Oct 15, 2024•11 min
The key truth in this psalm is to praise the Lord. And not just you individually but all people and all nations. Today Watermark staff, Lois Wilke joins Emma Dotter to dive into a short psalm word by word to be reminded of the sweet truth of the gospel. Want to serve on the Join The Journey team? Find out more info here: https://www.watermark.org/search/serve?query=Join%20the%20Journey Grab a Psalms Join The Journey Journal for 2024: https://a.co/d/7rt0H3g Got kids? Check out the NEW Join The Jo...
Oct 14, 2024•10 min
All of mankind are liars? Is that true? Or is this psalmist just being dramatic? In today’s episode Lauren Atkinson is joined by Watermark Staff member, Dyann Kierstead, to talk about how relatable Psalm 116 is. Dyann also shares a small update about Watermark’s international missions teams. Additional Scripture Referenced in Today’s Episode: Proverbs 3:5-7 Psalm 73:26 (My flesh may fail) Grab a Psalms Join The Journey Journal for 2024: https://a.co/d/7rt0H3g Got kids? Check out the Join The Jou...
Oct 11, 2024•10 min
Today we are celebrating the 200th episode of the podcast for 2024 and gearing up to celebrate 25 years at Watermark! David Penuel and Dani Stoll help us answer the question, “How is Jesus different than idols?”. We come to find out that nothing else can speak, see, listen, serve or bless like Jesus. May we look to Him in all things. Additional Scripture referenced in today’s episode: 1 Peter 3:12, “For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the fac...
Oct 10, 2024•9 min
In our passage today, we see nature is acting in fear, reverence and obedience to God. How much more should we be acting in that way? Watermark College student, Sam Curtis joins Seth Master on the podcast to talk about the parallels you find in today's Psalm. Additional Scripture referenced in today's episode: Romans 8:35, "Who shall seperate us from the love of Christ?" Philippians 1:6, "And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus ...
Oct 09, 2024•8 min
"From the rising sun to the setting same I will praise your name." Faithful Watermark member, Michelle Buchanan joins Emma Dotter on the podcast to talk about the command to praise we see from Psalm 113. Check out the worship song Michelle mentioned: Maverick City - Promises https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5m09rqOoxE Grab a Psalms Join The Journey Journal for 2024: https://a.co/d/7rt0H3g Got kids? Check out the NEW Join The Journey Jr. Journal for 2024: https://a.co/d/eYBgvUM You can also check...
Oct 08, 2024•11 min
In this episode Emma Dotter reviews today's devotional and Dr. Constables overview of Psalm 112, allowing the listener to form a starting point before doing a deep dive themselves. Grab a Psalms Join The Journey Journal for 2024: https://a.co/d/7rt0H3g Got kids? Check out the NEW Join The Journey Jr. Journal for 2024: https://a.co/d/eYBgvUM You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898...
Oct 07, 2024•7 min
Bad habits breed consequences. When we think about our spiritual lives, we never want forgetfullness to turn into a bad spiritual habit of ours. Emma Dotter reminds us to give thanks to the Lord not just as individuals, but as God's people. Additional Scripture referenced in today's episode: Genesis 12, 15, 17 - References to God's covenant promises to Abraham. 2 Samuel 7 - Reference to God's covenant promise to David about a ruler who will come from his lineage. Grab a Psalms Join The Journey J...
Oct 04, 2024•9 min
What does the reference to Melchizedek mean in Psalm 110? In today’s episode, Emma Dotter and faithful Join the Journey editor Will Gullette discuss who Melchizedek is and how it is important for us to explore the Word of God more deeply, because all of God’s story points to His plan of redemption and deep love for us. Additional Scriptures referenced: Genesis 14 – where Melchizedek meets Abram Hebrews 7 – Christ is out High Priest Check out Will’s previous episode! https://open.spotify.com/epis...
Oct 03, 2024•11 min
Justice has either been executed on Jesus on the cross or will be payed for for all of eternity for those who deny Christ. Join The Journey Hospitality Volunteer, Katterli Edwards joins Lauren Atkinson to talk through Psalm 109 and answer the question, "Can we curse our enemies?" Additional scripture referenced in today's episode: Romans 2:4, "Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?" Matthew...
Oct 02, 2024•11 min
As David is remembering God's salvation for His people, Israel, he is also praising God as the One whose power and glory are over all authorities. Lauren Atkinson teaches us that we can never overstate the truth of God's kept promises. Take time today to reflect on your own salvation and remind yourself to look to Jesus " the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God." A...
Oct 01, 2024•8 min
Our standing before God as believers is not dependent upon our performance. Emma Dotter walks us through today's passage and shows us that the wise filter their circumstances through the lens of the Cross recognizing that God is good even when we are not, even when our circumstances are not, even when we seem to have lost all hope; the wise may declare that our God is good, loving, kind, He is our rescuer and our redeemer. Ephesians 2:8-9 - “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And th...
Sep 30, 2024•10 min
"For even sorrow for sin must not put us out of tune for praising God." Psalm 105 magnifies God's goodness and Psalm 106 shows human sin. Lauren Atkinson reminds us that even though Israel sinned, God still loves them and does not stop being faithful to them. Grab a Join The Journey Journal for Psalms: https://a.co/d/7rt0H3g Got kids? Check out the NEW Join The Journey Jr. Journal for 2024: https://a.co/d/eYBgvUM You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com...
Sep 27, 2024•11 min
A promise was never going to be secured by the Israelites obedience, but by God's own word. Watermark staff, Hank Hoaglund joins Emma Dotter and Lauren Atkinson on the podcast to talk about Psalm 105. All the promises of God find their yes in Jesus and that is something we can rejoice in today! Addtional Scripture Referenced in Today's Episode: Deut 28; If the Israelites did not obey the laws of the Lord Galatians 3:18; "For if the inheritance comes by the law, it no longer comes by promise; but...
Sep 26, 2024•11 min
Today, Emma Dotter is joined by Porch volunteer Eddie Perez to talk about God's glory in creation from Psalm 104. The psalmist David describes the majesty and power of God in creation. God provides our basic needs but also displays his goodness in allowing us to enjoy His goodness in creation. God provides for his creation in many ways, but ultimately we see His provision for us in Christ, the bread of life and living water. Additional Scripture Referenced: John 6:35 - "Jesus said to them, 'I am...
Sep 25, 2024•10 min
God is slow to anger, compassionate and has mercy on His people. Faithful Watermark member, Scot Buchanan joins Emma Dotter on the podcast today. We are reminded of who God is and how we need to respond in light of this. Where have you seen characterisics of God in this Psalm in your daily life? Grab a Psalms Join The Journey Journal for 2024: https://a.co/d/7rt0H3g Got kids? Check out the NEW Join The Journey Jr. Journal for 2024: https://a.co/d/eYBgvUM You can also check out the Join The Journ...
Sep 24, 2024•11 min
In today’s episode, Emma Dotter explores the psalmist's deep feelings of despair and loneliness, illustrated by vivid imagery of suffering and rejection. Despite these heavy emotions, the psalmist ultimately shifts focus to God's unchanging character and mercy, emphasizing the importance of holding onto hope even in darkness. This passage reminds us to approach those who are struggling with empathy and to affirm the enduring love and mercy of God. Resources if you are struggling: Do you struggle...
Sep 23, 2024•10 min
What does it mean to be a man after God’s own heart? Today, Lauren Atkinson is joined by faithful Join the Journey team member Seth Master as they study Psalm 101, which reveals what it means to be after God’s heart. Despite his flaws, David strove to walk in integrity and purity towards God and accepted God’s abundant mercy being poured into him when he failed. Even more importantly, this psalm points to the greater David, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Check out Seth’s previous episode! htt...
Sep 20, 2024•11 min
Do joy, gladness, and singing mark the attitude and motivation of my heart and ministry? Lead Pastor, Blake Holmes joins Emma Dotter on the podcast today to ask the question, "Do I live with a proper perspective of who God is, His sovereignty and His love for me?" This reminds us that we aren't in control, God is and he cares deeply for us. Blake's previous episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey/id1600151923?i=1000640223995 Grab a Join The Journey Journal for Psalms: htt...
Sep 19, 2024•10 min
Holiness by definition is something worthy of complete devotion and in Psalm 99 we get to see that God deserves our complete devotion because He is holy. Watermark student, Ruthie Weinmann joins Emma Dotter on the podcast today. We are called to look different as Christ-followers and be transformed; however, we cannot do this on our efforts. Thankfully as believers, Jesus has sent us His spirit to transform us into the image of Christ. Additional Scripture Referenced in Today's episode: Luke 13:...
Sep 18, 2024•9 min
The joy in Psalm 98 jumps off the page for Michael Stubbs who is joining Emma Dotter on the podcast today. Our faithful God seasons our faith journey with shelter from the storms of life. Psalm 98 is the joy found in proclaiming the faithful goodness of our God. A new song to our God is a heart story sung with voices and instruments. Can you sing your new song? Summit (Men's Bible Study) Link: https://www.watermark.org/events/5836-summit-men-s-bible-study-1-kings-fall Grab a Join The Journey Jou...
Sep 17, 2024•13 min
Today on the podcast, Lauren Atkinson asks us to sit in the fact that the Lord reigns. This truth impacts every part of our life, yet we often skip over it. Lauren takes us through what it means to reign and how we should respond in light of our King. Additional Scripture Referenced in Today's Passage: Luke 19:40, "He answered, 'I tell you, if these were silent, the very stones would cry out.'" Genesis 12 & 22, Through Abraham, all of the nations will be blessed. Grab a Join The Journey Jour...
Sep 16, 2024•12 min
Today, Timothy Ateek is back in the podcast studio with Emma Dotter to share how God used Psalm 96 in his time away this summer. This enthronement psalm calls us to worship God with a new song blessing His name, or his character and everything that is praiseworthy about Him. What is the song in our hearts to God? Is God reigning in our lives in such a way that we naturally want to share the gospel with others? Just as Israel was to be a light to surrounding nations, so we are to be a light not j...
Sep 13, 2024•12 min
Today, Emma Dotter walks us through Psalm 95 and explores how spiritual disciplines, despite their challenges, can strengthen our faith through reliance on the Holy Spirit. Additional Scripture Referenced in Today's Podcast: Galatians 5:22-23, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law." 2 Corinthians 7:1, "Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify our...
Sep 12, 2024•9 min
Today, Emma Dotter is joined by faithful Watermark member Scott Meyers to talk through Psalm 94. As we think about the atrocities that occurred on September 11th, 2001, we know well the effects of wickedness on the world. How does God's justice and presence bring comfort in a broken world? We see in Psalm 94 that God's response to evil is not distant or removed. He bring justice and redemption through the coming of His Son Jesus Christ. If you'd like to hear more about Watermark's Re:Generation ...
Sep 11, 2024•11 min
