Podcasts about Watermark

What should care and correction in the church look like? How should followers of Jesus care for widows in their church body? In this episode, Watermark elder Todd Anders joins Emma Dotter to discuss Acts 6:1-7 and what it means to be a shepherding church, the five aspects of a shepherd, and the “one another” commands in Scripture. Then, faithful Watermark member Melanie Graber describes her experience in being cared for by the church and offers practical advice on caring for widows. // ADDITIONAL VERSES MENTIONED: Exodus 17: 11; 18: 21-22; Ephesians 4: 15; 2 Peter 3: 9; Psalm 23 // RELATED JOIN THE JOURNEY EPISODES:  S4:265 – Acts 5-6 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-265-acts-5-6/id1600151923?i=1000735373170) // RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY: Church Membership by Jonathan Leeman: (https://a.co/d/035b4DsL) Aging with Purpose: 7 Essentials for Finishing Well by Dr. Hal Habecker (https://a.co/d/0fP6bqSu) Read Melanie Graber's story: (https://www.watermark.org/blog/ordinary-obedience) Watermark Community Church ministries mentioned: Christ-Centered Recovery (https://www.watermark.org/ministries/regeneration-recovery) Marriage Enrichment (https://www.watermark.org/ministries/re-engage) International Student Ministry (https://www.watermark.org/outreach/international-students ) Women's Bible Study (https://www.watermark.org/ministries/womens-bible-study)  Newly Married Women (https://www.watermark.org/ministries/to-have-and-to-host)  Men and Women 60+ (https://www.watermark.org/ministries/legacy)  // WHAT IS JOIN THE JOURNEY? Join The Journey is a realistic daily Bible reading plan that helps followers of Jesus at Watermark Community Church and beyond enjoy abiding in Jesus together. Join The Journey Jr. is designed to help parents guide their kids in Bible reading through interactive and age-specific lessons. In 2026, we're studying the book of Acts—one passage per week. For another year, teaching on Sunday will align with each week's passage. Then, for the next six days, we'll return to the same passage with fresh focus, exploring insights about who God is and how we can enjoy him more deeply. Monday through Saturday, we'll approach the same passage from a different perspective each day—whether observation, interpretation, prayer, or another spiritual practice—to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for God's Word. Then, watch or listen to the video podcast to tackle the week's toughest verses and discover key historical, theological, and practical insights. Daily Bible lessons for adults: https://jointhejourney.com Daily Bible lessons for parents and families: https://jointhejourney.com/jr Weekly Bible podcast for kids: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...  // MORE RESOURCES FROM JOIN THE JOURNEY:  Digital Bible study resources: https://jointhejourney.com/resources Previous years' print curriculum: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Waterma... Contact the Join The Journey team: jointhejourney@watermark.org  

"In today's Conversations for the Journey, host and Care Director Wes Butler leads us in praying through Acts 6:1-7 This week, Wes leads us in prayer for three things: that the needs of our body would be met through our church, that leaders would be raised up to care for people, and that the Gospel would continue to spread. If you would like to submit a prayer request to the Watermark prayer team, you can do so at https://www.watermark.org/prayer You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

On Sunday, Jacob Alger, Watermark's Senior Director of Community, taught from Acts 6 and asked an important question: What if the greatest threat to the church wasn't external pressure but internal malfunction? This passage reminds us that a healthy church is one where problems are addressed, leaders remain devoted to prayer and the Word, and every member plays their part in the mission of God.

On Sunday, Jacob Alger, Watermark's Senior Director of Community, taught from Acts 6 and asked an important question: What if the greatest threat to the church wasn't external pressure but internal malfunction? This passage reminds us that a healthy church is one where problems are addressed, leaders remain devoted to prayer and the Word, and every member plays their part in the mission of God.

A philosopher, a mage, and a swordsman are sent on an impossible quest from which they know they will not return alive. Genre: Mythology   Excerpt:The philosopher felt her heart go still. She felt the cold steel of the swordsman's sword quivering by her right side. She felt the warm spark of the mage's magic prickling by her left side.  In that moment, and none other since, she had wished her friends would unleash their might and fury…   The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: The Last Night of Grief This episode landed on CREATURES. Find more stories and episodes about creatures here: Year of Creatures.   MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring my artwork?Please visit my Store page for info on where you can buy: STORYFEATHER STORE   The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create)Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me) Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)   MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written? I have a method. You can learn it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's now available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover. You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE   CREDITS Story: "The Last Night of Grief" Copyright © 2022 by Nila L. PatelNarration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production: Nila L. Patel   Music:"Flames on ice" by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Intro)"Haven" by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro)   Music by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Dark Fantasy Studio)"Whispers""Scroll of the wind walker""Wide place""Fallen leaves (seamless)""To Falgalown""Signs of desolation""The last stand""Adventure""Haven""Runes""Compass""In the shadows""Flames on ice"   Music by Nicholas Jeudy and Andrew Sitkov is licensed from GameDev MarketSound effects from AudioJungle, GameDevMarket, and Soundly (through Hindenburg)Vocal effects created with Audacity Changes made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration.  Find more music by Nicholas Jeudy and Andrew Sitkov at gamedevmarket.net Find more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com   Episode Art Description:Digital drawing. Facing forward stands a creature with three dog-like heads with different fur colors. The heads emerge from serpent-like necks attached to a central body from which the top heads of three legs are visible. All eyes are glowing. All the snouts are contracted as if growling, mouths parted, revealing fangs. All ears are perked up. A forked tongue emerges from the head at right. Snake-like fangs drip a drop of venom from the head at left. Behind and above the heads, an armored segmented body is visible extending up out of frame. Extending down from top left of frame is a segmented spiked tail curling upward. Behind the creature is the opening of a cave. Rectangular image is made square with top and bottom borders that reflect blurred versions of the faces in the main image. Watermark of "Storyfeather" on cave wall, along right side of torso.

"In today's Conversations for the Journey, College Director, Grant Wilkie, leads us in praying through Acts 5:17-42. This week, Grant leads us in prayer for three things: that we would have courage to obey God, that we would have conviction to preach the truth of the Gospel, and that we would be the type of believers who have a faith that would be persecuted. If you would like to submit a prayer request to the Watermark prayer team, you can do so at https://www.watermark.org/prayer You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

The story is told of how nine little gods came to be honored at a feast where they dared not show their faces. Genre: Mythology   Excerpt:The new mortal-made masks were so fantastical and magical that they could not easily be distinguished from the masks of the gods. A few called it blasphemy. (For we humans can be fools this way, don't you agree? Seeking and seeking for wonder, and fearing it when we find it.)   The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: Nine Gods in Masquerade This episode landed on a mystery spoke that was revealed to be MUSIC. I rambled through my music and found a track that inspired this story.   MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring my artwork?Please visit my Store page for info on where you can buy: STORYFEATHER STORE   The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create) Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me)   Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)   MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written? I have a method. You can learn it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's now available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover. You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE   CREDITSStory: "Nine Gods in Masquerade" Copyright © 2022 by Nila L. PatelNarration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production: Nila L. Patel   Music:"Medieval fiesta" by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Intro)"Donjon keeper (bonus track)" by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Outro)"Haven" by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro)   Music by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Dark Fantasy Studio)"Oinions""Oinions (second part)""Sand of time (bonus track)""City of magic""Joy""Dragon style""Donjon monster""Donjon keeper (bonus track)""The harbor""Snake charmer""Jesters dance""In the shadows""Shadows and flames""Haven""Medieval fiesta"   All tracks are part of a music and sound effects bundles I purchased from Humble Bundle and sourced from GameDev Market. Music by Nicholas Jeudy and Andrew Sitkov is licensed from GameDev MarketChanges made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration. Find more music by Nicholas Jeudy and Andrew Sitkov at gamedevmarket.net Find more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com   Episode Art Description:Digital drawing. An empty masquerade mask facing forward with several asymmetrical elements. At center bridge of nose, a seashell motif. At left of image the top corner of the mask appears to be burning in a sparkling flame, and part of the mask appears to be vaporizing. At bottom is a small chainmail section from which there hangs a row of teardrop pieces dangling from thin strings. Within each eye hole is a star-filled sky motif. The right eye hole is framed with a tiled or scaled border. The left eye is surrounded by a vine motif. At right of image a feather and wing motif drops from the bottom of the mask. Along the side and extending up in a branching tree. A few leaves sprout from a few branches. Two flowers are set beside the tree and above the left eye. A dragonfly-like insect is perched at the base of the tree with two insect wings extending out and two feathers emerging from the bottom. Watermark of "Storyfeather" along bottom edge below right eyehole.

"In today's Conversations for the Journey, College Director, Grant Wilkie, leads us in praying through Acts 5:12-16. This week, Grant leads us in prayer for two things: that we would trust the Word of God and that our church would be be fruitful and multiply. If you would like to submit a prayer request to the Watermark prayer team, you can do so at https://www.watermark.org/prayer You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

In a realm cursed to lie under a gray veil, one man accepts a job patrolling a neighborhood to watch for unauthorized breaches. Genre: Fantasy   Excerpt:He had given up on his childhood fantasy when he realized that people had already found ways to break the curse, and had tried those ways and failed. He had given up when he learned that some of the ways had never been tried and never would be, because the cost was too high. And over the generations, more and more people believed that the gray veil was a blessing, not a curse. A protection, not an oppression.   The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: Through a Sky Gray This episode landed on PROMPTS. I wrote the story based on a writing prompt. Find more stories and episodes where a prompt inspired the story here: Year of Prompts.     MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring my artwork?Please visit my Store page for info on where you can buy: STORYFEATHER STORE   The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create) Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me)  Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)   MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written? I have a method. You can learn it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's now available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover. You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE   CREDITSStory: "Through a Sky Gray" Copyright © 2022 by Nila L. PatelNarration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production: Nila L. Patel   Music:"Infinite land" by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Intro)"Don't move" by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro)   Music by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Dark Fantasy Studio)"A story of gold""A band in the inn""Written in stones""The village near the lake""On the way""White river""Don't move""Back in the village""Fallen leaves""Signs of desolation""Elders wisdom""Compass""Infinite land"   All tracks are part of a music and sound effects bundles I purchased from Humble Bundle and sourced from GameDev Market.  Music by Nicholas Jeudy and Andrew Sitkov is licensed from GameDev MarketSound effects from AudioJungle, GameDevMarketChanges made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration.   Find more music by Nicholas Jeudy and Andrew Sitkov at gamedevmarket.net Find more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com   Episode Art Description:Digital painting. Bottom half, a variety of wildflowers and grass. Top half, a solid gray expanse is split at the middle by a bright glowing light at top that streams down and expands to the sides to encompass the wildflowers below. Watermark of "Storyfeather" blends with the grass at left.

This week's podcast spotlights Dorothy J. Gaiter and John Brecher, former Wall Street Journal columnists and founders of Open That Bottle Night, who join us to discuss why all of us tend to hold onto wines we own that we should have opened years ago and what to do about it. From Penticton, British Columbia, Master of Wine Geoffrey Moss, principal of Lithica Wine Marketing, offers an update on the releases of the 2024 and now 2025 replacement wines and what we can expect from local producers. David McBean, general manager of the Watermark Beach Resort in Osoyoos, returns for a spring update on what they are preparing to offer visitors at the Watermark and 15 Park Bistro this year. Finally, we are joined by the star storyteller Jane Ferrari, of Jane Ferrari Consulting Pty Ltd (Jim Barry Wines), for a masterclass on the famed Barossa Valley region, located in South Australia, a short drive from Adelaide.

Does God care about generosity? How did the early church “have everything in common”? Why did God judge Ananias and Sapphira? In this episode, one of Watermark's elders, Kyle Thompson, joins Emma to discuss Acts 4:32-37 and the radical generosity that marked the early church. Then, Emma unpacks Acts 5:1-11 and the story of Ananias and Sapphira with Watermark's National Director of Merge and Foundation Groups, Scott Kedersha.  // ADDITIONAL VERSES MENTIONED: 1 John 3: 17; Psalm 50: 10; 2 Corinthians 8: 5, 12-15; 9:7; Proverbs 14: 12; Luke 21: 3-4; John 8: 44  // RELATED JOIN THE JOURNEY EPISODES:  S4:265 – Acts 5-6 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-265-acts-5-6/id1600151923?i=1000735373170)  // RESOURCES: Moneywise, biblical money management at Watermark: (https://www.watermark.org/ministries/moneywise)  // WHAT IS JOIN THE JOURNEY? Join The Journey is a realistic daily Bible reading plan that helps followers of Jesus at Watermark Community Church and beyond enjoy abiding in Jesus together. Join The Journey Jr. is designed to help parents guide their kids in Bible reading through interactive and age-specific lessons. In 2026, we're studying the book of Acts—one passage per week. For another year, teaching on Sunday will align with each week's passage. Then, for the next six days, we'll return to the same passage with fresh focus, exploring insights about who God is and how we can enjoy him more deeply. Monday through Saturday, we'll approach the same passage from a different perspective each day—whether observation, interpretation, prayer, or another spiritual practice—to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for God's Word. Then, watch or listen to the video podcast to tackle the week's toughest verses and discover key historical, theological, and practical insights. Daily Bible lessons for adults: https://jointhejourney.com Daily Bible lessons for parents and families: https://jointhejourney.com/jr Weekly Bible podcast for kids: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...  // MORE RESOURCES FROM JOIN THE JOURNEY:  Digital Bible study resources: https://jointhejourney.com/resources Previous years' print curriculum: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Waterma... Contact the Join The Journey team: jointhejourney@watermark.org  

"In today's Conversations for the Journey, host and Care Director Wes Butler leads us in praying through Acts 4:1-31. This week, Wes leads us in prayer for four things: that we would be Gospel-Saturated, proclaiming Jesus's name in all that we do; that we would be recognized as being people who are with Jesus; that we would be faithful to love our enemies and have boldness even in opposition; praying for perseucted church all over the world. If you would like to submit a prayer request to the Watermark prayer team, you can do so at https://www.watermark.org/prayer You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

The terrifying night phantoms that haunt a once-forbidden wood are never seen by day, until one morning when an ordinary man encounters a phantom trapped in the sunlight.  Genre: Fantasy, Mythology   Excerpt:Something terrible had come into the world. Something evil. Invisible, intangible. Some corruption that could not be perceived. And therefore could not be fought. By the time it had a grip on someone, it was too late. The corruption seeped into every part of that person, defiling their heart, twisting their thoughts, draining the very life out of their body. No land was spared. No person was spared, no matter how pure, how honorable, how fit of body, how courageous of heart. No place was hidden from this corruption.   The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: Kairos and the Phantom This episode landed on REVISITATION. I revisit the concept of night phantoms. Here are earlier episodes featuring them. The Watchers of the Western Observatory The Three Circles   Find more stories and episodes where the drawing inspired the story here: Year of Revisitation.   MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring my artwork?Please visit my Store page for info on where you can buy: STORYFEATHER STORE   The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create)Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me)  Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)   MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written? I have a method. You can learn it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's now available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover. You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE   CREDITSStory: "Kairos and the Phantom" Copyright © 2021 by Nila L. PatelNarration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production: Nila L. Patel   Music:"Peacefull place" by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Intro)"Northern dusk" by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro) Music by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Dark Fantasy Studio)"Deep""The last stand""Between two worlds""Dark fields""Emblem""Shadow forest""The forest""Ancient gods""Seasons""Lonely day""Peacefull place""Northern dusk""Home"   All tracks are part of a music and sound effects bundles I purchased from Humble Bundle and sourced from GameDev Market. Music by Nicholas Jeudy and Andrew Sitkov is licensed from GameDev MarketVocal effects created with Audacity Changes made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration.   Find more music by Nicholas Jeudy and Andrew Sitkov at gamedevmarket.net Find more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com   Episode Art Description:Digital drawing. At right, a man in medieval style clothing stands amid patches of grass and looks shocked. His brows are raised and he holds his right hand over his mouth as he gazes at the figure to the left, a man with a gray complexion bowing as he catches an apple with his left hand. The bowing man is surrounded by a wispy glowing cloak, and the colors of his clothing appear to be bleeding into the cloak. At his right foot is a platter of food. A stone sits on or in his left foot. Part of a stream is visible behind the man at right. Watermark of "Storyfeather" along the inner edge of the long vest worn by the man at right. The rectangular image is made square with top and bottom borders that display blurred sections of the main image.

Kierkegaard writes in his book "Works of Love" that if you hold humanity up to the light, you will see the watermark of eternity. Regardless of what is written on the paper. We are made in the image of God. The Incarnation is the eternal God coming into the temporal world. What Soren calls "Perfect Ideality" in "Training in Christianity." We must treat others as glorious first before anything else.

Why does the resurrection matter so much to the Christian faith—and why was it so controversial in the early church? In this episode, Emma Dotter unpacks Acts 4:1-31 by breaking down the three primary religious groups that opposed the early church, including the Sadducees. Then, Emma is joined by Watermark member Bruno Ysla for a thoughtful conversation on the significance of the resurrection. Together, they explore the theology behind the resurrection, why it's central to Christianity, and how differing views on it shape belief and practice today. // ADDITIONAL VERSES MENTIONED: 1 Corinthians 5: 17 // RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY:  Acts: A Paragraph-by-Paragraph Exegetical Evangelical Bible Commentary by Darrell L. Bock: https://a.co/d/0g3ggXK9  // RELATED JOIN THE JOURNEY EPISODES:  S4:256 – Luke 23-34 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-256-luke-23-24/id1600151923?i=1000733444687) S4:264 – Acts 3-4 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-264-acts-3-4/id1600151923?i=1000735193276) // WHAT IS JOIN THE JOURNEY? Join The Journey is a realistic daily Bible reading plan that helps followers of Jesus at Watermark Community Church and beyond enjoy abiding in Jesus together. Join The Journey Jr. is designed to help parents guide their kids in Bible reading through interactive and age-specific lessons. In 2026, we're studying the book of Acts—one passage per week. For another year, teaching on Sunday will align with each week's passage. Then, for the next six days, we'll return to the same passage with fresh focus, exploring insights about who God is and how we can enjoy him more deeply. Monday through Saturday, we'll approach the same passage from a different perspective each day—whether observation, interpretation, prayer, or another spiritual practice—to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for God's Word. Then, watch or listen to the video podcast to tackle the week's toughest verses and discover key historical, theological, and practical insights. Daily Bible lessons for adults: https://jointhejourney.com Daily Bible lessons for parents and families: https://jointhejourney.com/jr Weekly Bible podcast for kids: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...  // MORE RESOURCES FROM JOIN THE JOURNEY:  Digital Bible study resources: https://jointhejourney.com/resources Previous years' print curriculum: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Waterma... Contact the Join The Journey team: jointhejourney@watermark.org  

In today's Conversations for the Journey, host and Care Director Wes Butler leads us in praying through Acts 4:1-31. This week, Wes leads us in prayer for four things: that we would be Gospel-Saturated, proclaiming Jesus's name in all that we do; that we would be recognized as being people who are with Jesus; that we would be faithful to love our enemies and have boldness even in opposition; praying for persecuted church all over the world. If you would like to submit a prayer request to the Watermark prayer team, you can do so at https://www.watermark.org/prayerYou can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources!https://www.jointhejourney.com/Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df

A person struggling with heartbreak is drawn into the history of a garden filled with morbid beauty. Genre: Fantasy   Excerpt:Branches terminating in skulls. Transparent petals whose vessels glow white as bleached bone in the dark. Bright yellow leaves whose soft serrated edges exude a dark red liquid that drips and pools and stains the ground like the signs of a crime scene. Such sights could I have seen in the greenhouse of gruesome growths. The courtyard of the maverick alchemist. The garden of the peculiar.   The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. This episode landed on TURN AGAIN, and when I turned the wheel again, it landed on a Mystery Spoke…DRAW!!! This means I draw first, then write the story based on that drawing. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: Garden of the Peculiar Find more stories and episodes where the drawing inspired the story here: Year of Creatures   MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring my artwork?Please visit my Store page for info on where you can buy: STORYFEATHER STORE   The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create)Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me)  Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)     MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written? I have a method. You can learn it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's now available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover. You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE   CREDITSStory: "Garden of the Peculiar" Copyright © 2022 by Nila L. PatelNarration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production: Nila L. Patel   Music:"At Night" by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Intro)"Song Visiting Her Forest" by ALBERT FERNANDEZ (Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro)  Music by NICHOLAS JEUDY (Dark Fantasy Studio)"Creatures of the night""At night""Whispers""Evidence""Witches"  Music by ALBERT FERNANDEZ (Audio Alchemist, Potion Studio)"Song Mistery""Song Painful Memories Loop""Song Visiting Her Forest""Atmosphere Persecution Danger Loop" All tracks are part of a music and sound effects bundles I purchased from Humble Bundle and sourced from GameDev Market. Music by Albert Fernandez, Nicholas Jeudy, and Andrew Sitkov is licensed from GameDev MarketSound effects from AudioJungle, GameDevMarket, and Soundly (through Hindenburg)Changes made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration. Find more music by Nicholas Jeudy, Albert Fernandez, and Andrew Sitkov at gamedevmarket.net Find more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com     Episode Art Description:Digital drawing. Composite. At center, a flower with three petals shaped like teardrops, one petal at top, two below, each with long tips that extend out of frame. The petals' coloring combined to form the face of a monkey. Behind and at right are bright and shadowy overlapping outlines and silhouettes of a stem with branches that terminate in skull shapes. Behind and below the main flower is a smaller flower with a monkey face tilted to the right, its monochrome color fading into the background. Behind and at left, depicted in glowing monochrome is a flower that appears like a figure wearing a wide-brimmed hat and a flowing cloak. Behind this glowing figure at left is another silhouette of the skull shapes. Watermark of "Storyfeather" along the edge of petal at right.  

What is a miracle? Can believers perform miracles today? How can we speak boldly about Jesus like Peter? In this extended episode, Emma Dotter illustrates what the temple would have looked like and highlightsgenerosity in the early church. Then, Watermark's Director of Equipping, Chris Sherrod, joins to answer controversial questions about miracles and unpack Acts 3:1-7. After that, Emma and Watermark's Director of Re|Engage, Matt Farlow, have a conversation about how the same Spirit who emboldened Peter emboldens us, and they provide practical advice on how to keep in step with the Spirit. // ADDITIONAL VERSES MENTIONED: John 20: 30-31; Mark 1: 40-42; Revelation 21: 4; Deuteronomy 4: 9; Galatians 5: 25; John 15: 26  // RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY:  In Defense of Miracles edited by Doug Geivett and Gary Habermas: https://a.co/d/eF78vq5 GotQuestions article on miracles: https://www.gotquestions.org/definition-miracle.html // RELATED JOIN THE JOURNEY EPISODES:  S4:264 – Acts 3-4 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-264-acts-3-4/id1600151923?i=1000735193276 // WHAT IS JOIN THE JOURNEY? Join The Journey is a realistic daily Bible reading plan that helps followers of Jesus at Watermark Community Church and beyond enjoy abiding in Jesus together. Join The Journey Jr. is designed to help parents guide their kids in Bible reading through interactive and age-specific lessons. In 2026, we're studying the book of Acts—one passage per week. For another year, teaching on Sunday will align with each week's passage. Then, for the next six days, we'll return to the same passage with fresh focus, exploring insights about who God is and how we can enjoy him more deeply. Monday through Saturday, we'll approach the same passage from a different perspective each day—whether observation, interpretation, prayer, or another spiritual practice—to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for God's Word. Then, watch or listen to the video podcast to tackle the week's toughest verses and discover key historical, theological, and practical insights. Daily Bible lessons for adults: https://jointhejourney.com Daily Bible lessons for parents and families: https://jointhejourney.com/jr Weekly Bible podcast for kids: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...  // MORE RESOURCES FROM JOIN THE JOURNEY:  Digital Bible study resources: https://jointhejourney.com/resources Previous years' print curriculum: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Waterma... Contact the Join The Journey team: jointhejourney@watermark.org 

"In today's Conversations for the Journey, host and Care Director Wes Butler leads us in praying through Acts 3. Wes leads us in praying through 3 themes that are seen in the story of the lame beggar—praying for comfort for those who are broken and hurting, asking God to align our hearts and prayers with his, praying that we would be eager witnesses to the goodness of God in our lives. If you would like to submit a prayer request to the Watermark prayer team, you can do so at https://www.watermark.org/prayer You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

An uncertified magician, who's not allowed to cast enchantments in the city proper, finds odd jobs to do in the outer city. Genre: Fantasy   Excerpt:I got into this business at the wrong time. Now that huge factories could crank out standardized magic components that anyone could use, without even a basic understanding of the primary forces and how to shape them, not too many people were interested in "hand-crafted artisan" magic. That's what the kids called it now. In my grandpa's day, it was just called…magic.   The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. This episode landed on REVISITATION. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: Outer City Magician Find more stories and episodes featuring this theme here: Year of Revisitation.   MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring my artwork?Please visit my Store page for info on where you can buy: STORYFEATHER STORE   The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create)Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me)  Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)   MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written? I have a method. And I talk all about it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's now available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover. You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE   CREDITSStory: "Outer City Magician" Copyright © 2022 by Nila L. PatelNarration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production: Nila L. Patel   Music:"Shady Town" by CHRIS LOGSDON (Intro & Outro)"Medieval Theme 5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro)  Music by CHRIS LOGSDON"Whimsical Town""Shady Town""Haunted Town""Desert Town""Mystical Town" Music by ANDREW SITKOV (MuzStation Game Music)"Medieval Theme 5""Magic Within""Medieval Track #1""Adventure Track #1 (looped)""Casual Theme #2""Casual Theme #1" All tracks are part of a music and sound effects bundles I purchased from Humble Bundle and sourced from GameDev Market. Music by Andrew Sitkov and Chris Logsdon is licensed from GameDev MarketSound effects from AudioJungle, GameDevMarket, and Soundly (through Hindenburg)Changes made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration. Find more music by Andrew Sitkov and Chris Logsdon at gamedevmarket.net Find more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com   Episode Art Description:Digital drawing. At center, a person seen from waist up, wearing a coat with a wide collar, a vest and shiny necklace, holding bent arms out to the sides, palms up, and looking up with a crooked smile. A tall pointed black hat sits on the right palm, which is surrounded by a glow. Three bees are hovering above the person's head. A wispy glowing line surrounded by tiny glowing balls seeps from the tip of the hat and curves around the bees. Watermark of "Storyfeather" along outside of the person's upper right arm.

How is fellowship really lived out at Watermark? Is there hope for the younger generation? In today's episode, Emma Dotter sits down with Watermark's Shoreline Director, Will McIlroy, to share powerful stories of genuine fellowship in action. Will highlights how Watermark students are actively living out their faith through gathering for worship, devotion to God's Word, and meaningful community with one another. This conversation offers a glimpse into what it looks like when faith is practiced together—not just taught. // ADDITIONAL VERSES MENTIONED: 1 John 1:1-4  // RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY:  If you have students in 6-12 grade, check out DTown happening February 6-7, 2026: https://www.watermark.org/events/6834-dtown-2026 See what God is doing in our students' lives on Shoreline's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shorelinedallas/?hl=en // RELATED JOIN THE JOURNEY EPISODES:  S4:263 – Introduction to the book of Acts” (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...) S3:035 – Ecclesiastes 7 with Craig Wenning (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s3-035-ecclesiastes-7/id1600151923?i=1000645562308)  // WHAT IS JOIN THE JOURNEY? Join The Journey is a realistic daily Bible reading plan that helps followers of Jesus at Watermark Community Church and beyond enjoy abiding in Jesus together. Join The Journey Jr. is designed to help parents guide their kids in Bible reading through interactive and age-specific lessons. In 2026, we're studying the book of Acts—one passage per week. For another year, teaching on Sunday will align with each week's passage. Then, for the next six days, we'll return to the same passage with fresh focus, exploring insights about who God is and how we can enjoy him more deeply. Monday through Saturday, we'll approach the same passage from a different perspective each day—whether observation, interpretation, prayer, or another spiritual practice—to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for God's Word. Then, watch or listen to the video podcast to tackle the week's toughest verses and discover key historical, theological, and practical insights. Daily Bible lessons for adults: https://jointhejourney.com Daily Bible lessons for parents and families: https://jointhejourney.com/jr Weekly Bible podcast for kids: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...  // MORE RESOURCES FROM JOIN THE JOURNEY:  Digital Bible study resources: https://jointhejourney.com/resources Previous years' print curriculum: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Waterma... Contact the Join The Journey team: jointhejourney@watermark.org 

In today's Conversations for the Journey, host and Care Director Wes Butler leads us in praying through Acts 2:42-47. This week Wes reads Acts 2:42-47 and encourages you to pray how the Spirit would lead you. We spend time praying for the church—that we would be people who reflect the heart of God the Father, have eagerness to fellowship with one another, and be sensitive to those around us in need. If you would like to submit a prayer request to the Watermark prayer team, you can do so at https://www.watermark.org/prayerYou can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources!https://www.jointhejourney.com/Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df

A dog and a boy wander through a carnival. One of them is terrifying. One of them is sweet. Guess which is which. Genre: Fantasy   Excerpt:"There's a pit bull in the ball pit!" someone cried. The children saw Angel, and they began to flee. Angel opened his mouth enough to bare his teeth, but not enough to use those teeth. Children screamed and flapped their arms and were pulled up out of the pit by the scruff of their shirts. Little Sam was somehow oblivious to the mayhem.   The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. This episode landed on CHALLENGE. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: Angel at the Carnival. Find more stories and episodes featuring this theme here: Year of Challenge.   PIRANHA-DOG MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring Angel, the piranha-dog?Here's the direct link:Part Dog Part Piranha merch on TeePublic Please visit my Store page for up-to-date info on where you can buy merchandise featuring my artwork: STORYFEATHER STORE   The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create)Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me)  Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)   MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written? I have a method. And I talk all about it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's now available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover. You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE   CREDITSStory: "Angel at the Carnival" Copyright © 2022 by Nila L. PatelNarration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production:  Nila L. Patel   Music:"Experiment (Electronic Rock Theme)" by ANDREW SITKOV (Intro)"Medieval Theme 5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro)   Music by ANDREW SITKOV (MuzStation Game Music)"Abstract Vision #3""Abstract Vision #9""Medieval Theme 5""Army of Death""Casual Theme #2""Experiment (Electronic Rock Theme)""Casual Funny Track (looped)""Loop #5""Loop #3""Evil is Near""Scary Theme #3""Epic Drums (Looped)""Heart of Warrior NEW (Lyric Part Version 1)""Revival of Hero""Heart of Warrior NEW (Lyric Part Version 2)" All tracks are part of a music and sound effects bundles I purchased from Humble Bundle and sourced from GameDev Market. Music by Andrew Sitkov is licensed from GameDev MarketSound effects from AudioJungle, GameDevMarket, and Soundly (through Hindenburg)Changes made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration.   Find more music by Andrew Sitkov at gamedevmarket.net Find more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com   Episode Art Description:Digital drawing. Two figures at center. Left, a toddler boy wearing overalls with a patch at the chest bearing an image of the hand-horns sign. The boy's right hand is outstretched and is conjuring a cloud of cotton candy. His other arm is bent at his side. Right, an animal that appears to be half-dog and half-fish. The dog-like body is sitting up. The fish-like head is turned to the side with mouth open, displaying piranha teeth and a pointy outstretched tongue. The creature's eyes are red. It has a long tail bearing fins, ending in a caudal fin. The creature wears a studded collar with a tag that reads "Angel." Behind them is the hazy shape of a Ferris wheel with glowing lights. Watermark of "Storyfeather" along the boy's right side.

"Join us this week for 7 Days of Prayer and Fasting! In today's Conversations for the Journey, host and Care Director Wes Butler leads us in praying through Acts 2:42-47. Today, we pray through our 3 markers of being a Shepherding church, a Community church, and a Unifying church. We also spend time praying that God would ""add to our numbers"" and that we would see many people in our city saved by Jesus Christ. Join us for A Night of Prayer and Worship! This Thursday, January 29 from 7:00-9:00PM at Watermark. You can find more information at https://www.watermark.org/events/6876-night-of-prayer-and-worship-7-days-of-prayer-and-fasting If you would like to submit a prayer request to the Watermark prayer team, you can do so at https://www.watermark.org/prayer You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

A folklorist is swept up in a journey to find the proof that supports her seemingly preposterous notion about porcupines and fairy tales. Genre: Fairy Tale   Excerpt:Tommie's conjecture concerned the many fairy tales where a sudden growth of thorny vines encompassed a tower or a castle to protect, or more likely imprison, a young woman possessing some degree of power—a princess of surpassing beauty, say, or a sorceress. That growth was typically attributed to a magic spell cast by an evil witch or jealous warlock. Tommie allowed that magic and wickedness may have been involved, or not. Either way, the wild thorny thickets that held back princes were cast out by a creature. "Have you ever heard of the prickly vine porcupine?"   The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. This episode landed on CREATURES. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: Isle of the Fairy Ring Find more stories and episodes featuring this theme here: Year of Creatures.   MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring my artwork?Please visit my Store page for info on where you can buy: STORYFEATHER STORE   The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create)Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me)  Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)   MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written? I have a method. And I talk all about it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's now available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover. You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE   CREDITSStory: "Isle of the Fairy Ring" Copyright © 2022 by Nila L. PatelNarration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production: Nila L. Patel   Music:"Quizitive" by LEE ROSEVERE (Intro)"All the Answers" by LEE ROSEVERE (Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro) Music by LEE ROSEVERE"Awkward Silences Version b""All the Answers""Small Steps""Betrayal""Expectations""Not Alone""Heat Haze""Quizitive""Puzzle Pieces""Making a Change""Awkward Silences Version a" Track by Andrew Sitkov is part of a music and sound effects bundles I purchased from Humble Bundle and sourced from GameDev Market. Music by Andrew Sitkov is licensed from GameDev MarketMusic by Lee Rosevere is licensed under CC BY 4.0 Sound effects from AudioJungle, GameDevMarket, and Soundly (through Hindenburg)Changes made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration.   Find more music by Andrew Sitkov at gamedevmarket.net Find more music by Lee Rosevere at freemusicarchive.org/music/lee-rosevere and leerosevere.bandcamp.com Find more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com   Episode Art Description:Digital drawing. A porcupine with an array of glowing greenish quills, facing and looking forward, seen from the right flank. The wispy shapes of yellow and purple mushrooms surround the porcupine, suggesting the shape of a ring. At top right, there floats a bright glow, surrounded by hazy pink light. Watermark of "Storyfeather" along the inner part of the porcupine's left foreleg. Rectangular image made square with top and bottom borders that display blurred sections of the main image.

"In today's Conversations for the Journey, host and Care Director Wes Butler leads us in praying through Acts 2:22-41. In this episode, we pray through 3 prompts seen in Acts 2:22-41—we ask forgiveness for not sharing the Gospel when prompted, for God to confirm and affirm salvation in our hearts, and that we would be a missional church filled with boldness to share the Gospel. If you would like to submit a prayer request to the Watermark prayer team, you can do so at https://www.watermark.org/prayer You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL3ZFupC-BJyUebMTMH_uW468F2bvQm6nd Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

In this message, Dave Bruskas walks through Peter's sermon at Pentecost to help us better understand who Jesus is and why his life, death, and resurrection matter. The sermon shows that while God was at work through Jesus, our sin made the cross necessary. When the crowd realizes this, they ask what to do next, and Peter calls them to repent, be baptized, and follow Jesus. For us today, the invitation is to keep turning to Jesus, enjoy the presence of the Holy Spirit, and live as worshipers and witnesses.

In this message, Dave Bruskas walks through Peter's sermon at Pentecost to help us better understand who Jesus is and why his life, death, and resurrection matter. The sermon shows that while God was at work through Jesus, our sin made the cross necessary. When the crowd realizes this, they ask what to do next, and Peter calls them to repent, be baptized, and follow Jesus. For us today, the invitation is to keep turning to Jesus, enjoy the presence of the Holy Spirit, and live as worshipers and witnesses.

Sam Mills is an innovative and wildly creative writer, who has always wanted to publish books. She's written non-fiction books, 'Uneven', 'The Fragments of my Father', and others, also crossover, genre-bending novels like 'Blackout', and 'The Quiddity of Will Self'. She's written for The Guardian, The Independent, the New Humanist and more, along with running 'Dodo Ink', a small indie press that publishes daring and difficult literary fiction.Her new novel is 'The Watermark'. Inspired by 'Inception', it tells the story of Rachel and Jaime, who become trapped by Augustus Fate, a once-lauded novelist, in his latest creation. They must find their way back home through a labyrinthine network of novels, flitting from a harsh Russian Winter, to Victorian Oxford, from a utopian metropolis to an AI-dominated future.We discuss why she likes the romance of being a writer, and that helps her deal with the instability of it. Also, you can hear how she creeps close to the line of burnout, yet knows exactly when to pull back. Sam shares pen opinions, and how she's developed the cafe-writer's sense of when to leave.Get a copy of the book at uk.bookshop.org/shop/writersroutineThis week's episode is sponsored by the 'Quick Books Reviews Podcast', take a listen wherever you get your shows.Support 'Writer's Routine' -patreon.com/writersroutineko-fi.com/writersroutineSubscribe to the newsletter - writersroutine.substack.com@writerspodwritersroutine.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A humble seahorse reconstructs his form by studying his fellow fish, and emerges as the most magnificent creature to grace the sea. Genre: Mythology, Fable   Excerpt:"We are only one of many different kinds of horses," his mother said. "And all of us, the ones who fly through storm, the ones who canter on land, the ones who wander in dreams, we all came from one place, the sea. We all came from the first horses, who dwelt in the sea, and dwell there still, though they haven't been seen in many ages." The Wheel of Fiction Turns. What did it land on this time?Each Season 9 story follows a theme chosen by the Wheel of Fiction. Thirteen spokes. Eight are the themes from previous seasons. One is "Turn Again." One is a wild card. And three are covered in question marks and will be revealed when the wheel lands on them. This episode landed on REVISITATION. See a story trailer and a (satisfying) video of the wheel turning here: The Last Magnificent Seahorse Find more stories and episodes featuring this theme here: Year of Revisitation.   SEAHORSE MERCH!Interested in merch, like mugs and notebooks, featuring the seahorse (hippocampus)?Here's the direct link:Bubblegum Pink and Blue Hippocampus merch on TeePublic   Please visit my Store page for up-to-date info on where you can buy merchandise featuring my artwork: STORYFEATHER STORE   The Store page also has sign-up forms for my two email newsletters: Storyfeather Gazette (if you'd like to keep up with the fiction I create)Fictioneer's Field Guide (if you'd like writing tips and guidance from me)  Choose what you want. (Either way, you're choosing high jinks.)   MY FIRST BOOK (yay)Ever wonder how I've gotten all these hundreds of stories written? I have a method. And I talk all about it in my book called Fictioneer's Field Guide: A Game Plan for Writing Short Stories. It's now available from Amazon as an eBook, paperback, and hardcover. You can also get there from my Store page: STORYFEATHER STORE   CREDITSStory: "The Last Magnificent Seahorse" Copyright © 2022 by Nila L. Patel Narration, Episode Art, Editing, and Production: Nila L. Patel   Music:"Exploration Mystical Place (loop 1)" by ALBERT FERNANDEZ (Intro & Outro)"Abstract Vision #5" by ANDREW SITKOV (Outro)   Music by ALBERT FERNANDEZ (Audio Alchemist, Potion Studio)"Exploration Cave (loop)""Exploration Forest of Magic""Exploration Mystery (loop)""Exploration Mystical Place (loop 1)""Humorous Exploration (loop)""Battle 1 normal (loop)""Humorous Stealth (loop)" Music by ANDREW SITKOV (MuzStation Game Music)"Secrets of Kingdom""Magic Within"  All tracks are part of a music and sound effects bundles I purchased from Humble Bundle and sourced from GameDev Market.   Music by Albert Fernandez and Andrew Sitkov is licensed from GameDev MarketSound effects from AudioJungle, GameDevMarket, and Soundly (through Hindenburg)Changes made to the musical tracks? Just cropping of some to align with my narration. Find more music by Albert Fernandez and Andrew Sitkov at gamedevmarket.net Find more stories by Nila at storyfeather.com   Episode Art Description:Digital drawing. Floating in water among small bubbles, the mythical creature known as the hippocampus. Seen from left side, the front half looks like a horse, except that the mane is replaced with a spiny dorsal fin, and the hooves are replaced by fins. The forelimbs appear to be in mid-gallop. The back half appears like a fish with fins protruding from the sides. The tail arcs toward the front. The creature's coloring is vivid and shimmering like a fish. Watermark of "Storyfeather" along middle of back.

This week, Benjamin Applebee continues our 4-part series called "Sent Ones", which is a series on evangelism and how we can create a burning passion for the lost! After his message, Pastor Benjamin is joined by Pastor Randy Iaocvetta as they answer your questions live in service... all while eating spicy hot wings!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

Have you experienced discrepancies between your spiritual life and what you read in Acts? While the early church was unique in many ways, believers still have the same Spirit that we read about in Scripture. In this episode, Emma Dotter and Kylen Perry, Watermark's Executive Director of The Porch, explain who that Spirit is and how he works in our lives and churches today. Then Emma Dotter and Pastor and Author, Kirk Freeman, spend time unpacking the implications of Acts 2, a passage that originally gave unity and clarity to the early church rather than the division it causes now. Listen to learn how to fight for unity despite having different convictions from other believers around you.// ADDITIONAL VERSES MENTIONED: Acts 5: 3-4; Matthew 28: 19-20; John 15: 26; Ephesians 4: 30; Genesis 41; 1: 1-2; 2: 7; Acts 9: 31; Galatians 5: 16-18; John 16: 8; Titus 3: 5 // RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY:  Watermark's doctrinal statement on the Holy Spirit: (https://www.watermark.org/about/full-doctrinal-statement) Wrestling with your convictions on the Holy Spirit? (https://www.watermark.org/blog/agree-to-disagree-how-to-handle-essentials-convictions-opinions)  Threads: Weaving Discipleship into the Fabric of Your Life by Kirk Freeman (https://www.amazon.com/Threads-Weaving-disciple-making-fabric/dp/B0CNKXBMZN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2NO5MWLVB07S8&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ZVudhJOVXAMUTMHuv23neg.C3TzzhQ2E5uDMl6s3xyf1E7buSOBMJVB0KOpH8OwN1o&dib_tag=se&keywords=threads+kirk+freeman+book&qid=1766445136&sprefix=threads+kirk+%2Caps%2C150&sr=8-1 A Spirit-Led Church: Sermon series from Watermark Community Church (https://www.watermark.org/series/1471) Learn more about The Porch, Watermark's young adult ministry: https://www.theporch.live  // RELATED JOIN THE JOURNEY EPISODES:  “S4:263 – Introduction to the book of Acts” (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...) Intro to the book of Acts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey/id1600151923?i=1000735019898  “S1:191 – What if my possession of the Spirit feels mundane?” (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey/id1600151923?i=1000580618106) // WHAT IS JOIN THE JOURNEY? Join The Journey is a realistic daily Bible reading plan that helps followers of Jesus at Watermark Community Church and beyond enjoy abiding in Jesus together. Join The Journey Jr. is designed to help parents guide their kids in Bible reading through interactive and age-specific lessons. In 2026, we're studying the book of Acts—one passage per week. For another year, teaching on Sunday will align with each week's passage. Then, for the next six days, we'll return to the same passage with fresh focus, exploring insights about who God is and how we can enjoy him more deeply. Monday through Saturday, we'll approach the same passage from a different perspective each day—whether observation, interpretation, prayer, or another spiritual practice—to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for God's Word. Then, watch or listen to the video podcast to tackle the week's toughest verses and discover key historical, theological, and practical insights. Daily Bible lessons for adults: https://jointhejourney.com Daily Bible lessons for parents and families: https://jointhejourney.com/jr Weekly Bible podcast for kids: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...  // MORE RESOURCES FROM JOIN THE JOURNEY:  Digital Bible study resources: https://jointhejourney.com/resources Previous years' print curriculum: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Waterma... Contact the Join The Journey team: jointhejourney@watermark.org  

Separation is often presented as a healthy solution when marriage feels hard—but is it really? In this episode, the More Than Roommates team explores what separation actually means, why it so often leads to divorce, when it may be necessary, and how couples can pursue healing and restoration with Biblical wisdom and community.Discussion Questions:1- Why do you think separation so often leads to divorce rather than healing?2- How does selfishness subtly show up in your marriage during hard seasons?3- What role does community currently play in helping you protect and strengthen your marriage?4- How could you better “water your own grass” in this season?Resources:Episode 83 Divorce part 1Episode 84 Divorce part 2Episode 127 Healing from Sexual Abuse  Watermark statement on marriage and divorce

This week, Benjamin Applebee continues our 4-part series called "Sent Ones", which is a series on evangelism and how we can create a burning passion for the lost!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

"In today's Conversations for the Journey, host and Care Director Wes Butler leads us in praying through Acts 2:1-21. In this episode, we pray for 3 things seen in Acts 2:1-21—we thank God for the gift of the Holy Spirit and ask him to give us a sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, that the fruit of the Spirit would be evident in our lives, and that we would revere God's Word. If you would like to submit a prayer request to the Watermark prayer team, you can do so at https://www.watermark.org/prayer You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

In Sunday's message from Acts 2, we were reminded that while Pentecost was a unique moment in history, the work of the Holy Spirit did not stop there. Acts 2 shows us a church alive by the Spirit—marked by a shared enjoyment of God's presence, an urgency for mission, and a sense of awe at what God is doing.

In Sunday's message from Acts 2, we were reminded that while Pentecost was a unique moment in history, the work of the Holy Spirit did not stop there. Acts 2 shows us a church alive by the Spirit—marked by a shared enjoyment of God's presence, an urgency for mission, and a sense of awe at what God is doing.

Today, Pastor Benjamin is joined by Pastor Bucky Dennis as they answer your questions from this last Sunday's service!Have a question about the series, Jesus, or church in general? Leave an anonymous question at: generationsoc.com/questions!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

What was an apostle? Do apostles still exist? Why does the ascension of Jesus matter? In this episode, Emma Dotter unpacks the definition, role, and qualifications of an apostle and why Judas needed to be replaced. Then, Watermark's Resident Theologian, Garrett Wikle, joins to explain the doctrine of the ascension, how it shapes our understanding of the rest of Scripture, and why it's significant forfollowers of Jesus today.   ADDITIONAL VERSES MENTIONED:  Ephesians 2:20; Acts 2:43; 1 Corinthians 9:1; Luke 24:50-53, 49; Matthew 26; 28; Daniel 7; 1 Corinthians 15:24-25; 2 Corinthians 5:10; Ephesians 1:20; 2:6; 4:8-11; Philippians 2:5-11; Colossians 3:1-4; Hebrews; 1 Peter 3:21-22; Revelation 1; 4-5  RESOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY:  Acts of the Risen Lord: https://a.co/d/bUChMSg  The Bible Project: https://bibleproject.com/videos/acts-1-12/ GotQuestions: https://www.gotquestions.org/apostleship.html   RELATED JOIN THE JOURNEY EPISODES:  - S4:263 – Introduction to the book of Acts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey/id1600151923?i=1000735019898  - S1:190 – How do I see the Spirit working in my life? https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey/id1600151923?i=1000580392361   WHAT IS JOIN THE JOURNEY?  Join The Journey is a realistic daily Bible reading plan that helps followers of Jesus at Watermark Community Church and beyond enjoy abiding in Jesus together.  Daily Bible lessons for adults: https://www.jointhejourney.com  Daily Bible lessons for parents and families: https://www.jointhejourney.com/jr/7957-what-is-real Weekly Bible podcast for kids: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898   Contact the Join The Journey Team: JoinTheJourney@watermark.org  

This week, Benjamin Applebee begins our brand new 4-part series called "Sent Ones", which is a series on evangelism and how we can create a burning passion for the lost! After his message, Pastor Benjamin is joined by Pastor Bucky Dennis as they answer your questions live in service... all while eating spicy hot wings!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

This week, Benjamin Applebee begins our brand new 4-part series called "Sent Ones", which is a series on evangelism and how we can create a burning passion for the lost!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

Merry Christmas Church Family and Happy New Year! Enjoy this year's Service at Home as Pastor Benjamin Applebee concludes our Advent Series and we prepare for the new year!Want to learn more about Watermark?Visit: https://watermarkoc.com/We would love to start a conversation with you!

"How should we understand John's vision in Revelation 21—what's new about the new creation, and how does it fulfill God's promises from the Old Testament? The climax of the vision is that God dwells with His people—‘they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them'. Why is this significant? Revelation 22 describes the river of life and the tree of life, which takes us back to Genesis. What's the significance of these images, and how do they show God's plan to fully reverse the curse? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Cassidy Webber, about the final two chapters of the Bible, Revelation 21-22. In this final Year of the Word episode, Emma and Cassidy discuss how the end of Revelation ties to the very beginning of the BIble and reflect on how the Bible is one big story of God's love and redemption for mankind. Additional References: Genesis 1-2; John 1; Psalm 23 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"In Revelation 15–16, the seven bowls of God's wrath are poured out on the earth. How do we reconcile God's justice and wrath in these passages with His love and mercy? In Revelation 17, what does Babylon represent, both in the first-century world and for us today? In today's episode, Watermark Community Director, Katie Shemanske talks with Watermark member, Bobby Crotty about Revelation 15-17. Additional References: Matthew 24:15 You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"Revelation 12 describes the woman, the dragon, and the child. How should we understand this symbolic story, and what does it reveal about the bigger spiritual battle behind history? In Revelation 13, John sees two beasts—one from the sea and one from the earth. How would the first-century church have understood these images, and how should we recognize the ongoing reality of false powers and counterfeit worship today? Revelation 14 contrasts those who follow the beast with those who follow the Lamb. What does this teach us about endurance and what it really means to remain faithful to Jesus? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Nathan Wagnon talk about Revelation 12-14 and unpack the imagery that is found in these chapters. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

On Sunday, December 28, we won't gather at the Dallas Campus for our usual services—but church is still on. Church at Home Sunday is your chance to slow down, gather your people, start the new year prayerfully, and get a taste of what church was like in the early first-century Church. In the video below, you will be guided through Watermark's 10 markers and be given time to reflect with your group on each. We're expectant for all God has ahead in 2026! Let's finish the year thankful, open-handed, and ready for what's next.

"Hebrews 1 begins by saying that God has spoken finally and fully in His Son, who is greater than angels. How does the supremacy of Christ fuel our mission to make Him known among the nations? How do the warnings about perseverance in Hebrews 3-4 encourage us to keep going in difficult ministry contexts and not give up? How do you see spiritual maturity tied to missional living—both in sending people and in equipping them to disciple others? The book of Hebrews shows that Christ is ‘better'—better than angels, Moses, and even the high priest. How do the first six chapters begin to build this case, and why does that matter for our faith and mission today? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member, Andrew Templeton talk about Hebrews 1-6, setting up the book and talking about how the themes intersect with missions and discipleship. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"In Titus 1, Paul lays out qualifications for elders. How do these compare to 1 Timothy 3, and why does Paul emphasize godly character so strongly in the context of Crete? In Titus 2:11–14, how does Paul connect grace—not law—as the motivator for holy living? How do good works flow out of salvation, and how do we guard against turning them into legalism? In today's episode, Emma Dotter and Watermark member Noah Mills discuss the book of Titus and explore teh qualifications of church elders, what it means to have godly character, and how we can guard our hearts against legalism while doing good works. If you are interested in the Watermark Institute, check it out here: https://www.watermarkresources.com/ministries/institute You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"How does 2 Timothy 2:2 capture the New Testament vision for discipleship and multiplication? 2 Timothy 3:16–17 says all Scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, correcting, and training. How should we understand the inspiration of Scripture here, and what does it mean for how the church uses the Bible? At the end of the letter, Paul says he has fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith. What do we learn from Paul's perspective at the end of his life about perseverance, faithfulness, and hope? In today's episode, Emma Dotter talks with Watermark member, Bobby Durning about 2 Timothy. Bobby talks about the differences between first and second Timothy and what Paul teaches about discipleship within the Church. To serve with Join The Journey: https://www.watermark.org/ministries/join-the-journey To read Watermark's belief statement on the Bible, check it out here: https://www.watermark.org/about/full-doctrinal-statement You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"

"In 1 Timothy 1, Paul urges Timothy to confront false teaching and hold on to sound doctrine. As an elder, how do you see the connection between guarding doctrine and shepherding people? In 1 Timothy 3, Paul lays out qualifications for elders and deacons. Does Paul emphasize character over giftedness, and how do you see these qualities play out in real church leadership today? What does 1 Timothy 6:6 mean for leaders and for the church family as a whole in a world that's so driven by success and possessions? In today's episode, Director of Care ministries, Wes Butler, talks with Watermark elder, Todd Anders about 1 Timothy and leadership within the church. Todd helps us understand Paul's teaching on church eldership and how we implement these teachings in the church today. You can also check out the Join The Journey Jr. Podcast: Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/join-the-journey-junior/id1660089898 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SG7aaE1ZjjFkgB34G8zp3?si=c960a63736904665 Check out the Join The Journey Website for today's devotional and more resources! https://www.jointhejourney.com/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Watermark-Community-Church/author/B0BRYP5MQK?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1755623322&sr=8-1&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=8aeeec3b-6c1c-416d-87ae-5dfbbb6981df"