Reading the Bible regularly can be a challenge, and our goal is to help you not only get into God's word regularly, but also help you understand and apply what you're reading! Join The Journey is a Bible study podcast built to follow our daily reading plan available for free at jointhejourney.com. New episodes will be available Monday through Friday. We hope you can join us!
Watermark Community Church, Dallas, TX
The Join The Journey podcast is an incredible resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of the Bible and apply its teachings to their daily lives. Emma and her team do a wonderful job of tackling difficult concepts in the Bible and presenting them in a way that challenges the listener to live out what is discussed in each passage of scripture. The insights provided by Emma and other members of the Watermark Church are thought-provoking and inspiring, making this podcast a great addition to any believer's spiritual routine.
One of the best aspects of this podcast is how it complements the Join The Journey readings. The daily episodes provide great insight into the passages being read, helping listeners gain a deeper understanding of each chapter. The discussions are engaging and relatable, making it easy for listeners to connect with the material and see how it applies to their own lives. Additionally, the short length of each episode makes it convenient for those with busy schedules to fit in some time for Bible study.
Another great aspect of this podcast is its accessibility. The hosts do an excellent job of breaking down complex ideas in a way that is easy to comprehend, making scripture more approachable for all listeners. Whether you're new to reading the Bible or have been studying it for years, you'll find value in the discussions presented on this podcast.
While there aren't many negative aspects to mention about this podcast, one minor drawback is that some episodes may feel repetitive if you're already familiar with certain passages or concepts. However, this can also be seen as reinforcement for important biblical truths, so it ultimately depends on personal preference.
In conclusion, The Join The Journey podcast is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to grow spiritually through their study of scripture. With insightful discussions and practical applications, this podcast offers encouragement and guidance on living out God's word in everyday life. Whether you're new to Bible study or have been reading it for years, this podcast will enrich your understanding and help you develop a deeper relationship with God.
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 care@watermark.orgTo 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
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
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 11:9-13Learn more about Watermark Student Ministries: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/studentsStudent sign up to serve at Camp Barnabas: https://www.watermark.org/events/6489-camp-barnabas-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 11Check out Noah's previous episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-040-numbers-35-36/id1600151923?i=1000692503623Come join us for The Porch on Tuesday nights: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/the-porch
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
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 29:11-13Learn how to serve at Watermark: https://www.watermark.org/serving-at-watermarkInterested in working at Watermark? See our open positions here: https://www.watermark.org/about/jobs-at-watermarkTo worship the Lord in joyful giving, go to https://www.watermark.org/giving
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 8:37Come celebrate 100 days of reading the Bible together with us! https://www.watermark.org/events/6472-celebrating-100-days-of-families-reading-the-bible
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 15:5Come celebrate 100 days of reading the Bible together with us! https://www.watermark.org/events/6472-celebrating-100-days-of-families-reading-the-bible
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
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 73:28Come celebrate 100 days of reading the Bible together with us! https://www.watermark.org/events/6472-celebrating-100-days-of-families-reading-the-bible
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
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
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
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-2025Learn more about our Middle School ministry: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/wakeCome celebrate 100 Days of reading the Bible with us! https://www.watermark.org/events/6472-celebrating-100-days-of-families-reading-the-bible