Scripture: Joshua 7:1–26

A Shattering Defeat
Fresh off their stunning victory at Jericho, Israel was ready to move forward with their conquest of Canaan. But Israel’s army suffered an unexpected and devastating defeat at the small town of Ai. What happened to God’s promise to fight Israel’s battles? Did God break His promise? Has God failed His people?

A Shocking Discovery
The unexpected defeat at the battle of Ai reminds us that we are not to take God’s grace for granted. We can’t profess to be aligned with God’s promises while living like His enemies. Israel’s defeat was because of the unfaithfulness of one of its warriors. Achan took what was devoted to God. He hid his sin underneath his tent. The sin of one man put the whole nation at risk. 

A Severe Decision
It wasn’t until God’s people united together to repudiate Achan’s sin that God’s judgment could be avoided. Jesus challenges all of His people to make a similar choice. In Matthew 5:29-30, Jesus called on His people to be willing to take extreme measures in ridding ourselves of sinful influences that destroy our lives. And God’s churches, like Israel of old, are called to confront sinful influences remove them from the camp.

Moving Forward
Scripture is clear that we have all sinned and come short of God’s glory. Our tendency is to want to run away from God and hide our sin and shame. But Christ calls to run to Him, not away from Him. 1 John 1:8-9 says “If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” Let’s trust in Christ, examine our hearts, confess our sins, and cleanse God’s camp!

Scripture: Joshua 5:13-6:27

God Fights the Battle
When Israel stood before the mighty city of Jericho, they didn’t win the victory with swords or strategy. God gave the instructions, and His people obeyed. For six days they marched in silence, and on the seventh day, the walls fell—not by human might, but by the power of God (Joshua 6:20).

Judgment and Mercy
Jericho’s fall was both a picture of God’s faithfulness to His people and His judgment on rebellion. While the city collapsed, Rahab and her family were spared because she trusted in the Lord (Joshua 6:25). This reminds us that God’s judgment is real, but so is His mercy to those who turn to Him.

A Shadow of What’s to Come
Just as Jericho faced its day of reckoning, Scripture points us to a final day when every heart will be laid bare before Christ (Revelation 20:11–12). The trumpets around Jericho echo the trumpet calls in Revelation, sounding the alarm that God’s Kingdom is coming in fullness.

Moving Forward
Where do you need to stop relying on your own strength and trust God’s power instead? The walls in our lives—fear, pride, sin, or doubt—won’t fall by our efforts, but through surrender to Christ. Like Rahab, choose faith today. God alone saves, and He promises victory to those who trust Him.

Scripture: Joshua 5:1–12

When Strength Meets Surrender
Israel had just crossed the Jordan River and stood ready to face their enemies. By every military instinct, this was the moment to attack. But instead of rushing forward, God called them to stop, to renew their covenant through circumcision, and to celebrate the Passover. Victory would not come by strategy or strength alone but through obedience and trust in the Lord.

God’s Ways Are Not Our Ways
The pause before the battle reminds us that God’s Kingdom does not advance by the weapons or wisdom of the world. Our impulse is often to take matters into our own hands—retaliate, grasp for control, or act out of anger. Yet God calls His people to resist that temptation, to trust Him even when it feels vulnerable, and to walk forward in faith rather than fear.

Remember and Renew
Israel’s obedience at Gilgal was more than ritual, it was an act of surrender. By renewing the covenant and keeping the Passover, they remembered God’s past deliverance and placed their future in His hands. In the same way, we are called to look back to the cross and resurrection of Jesus as the foundation of our hope and to renew our daily commitment to follow Him.

Moving Forward
Where do you need to stop striving and start trusting? This week, resist the urge to fight battles in your own strength. Instead, surrender your plans, frustrations, and fears to Christ. Remember what He has already done for you, and walk forward in obedience, knowing the victory belongs to Him.

When Israel crossed the Jordan River, God held back the floodwaters and led His people safely into the Promised Land. From that dry riverbed, the Lord commanded them to gather twelve stones (one for each tribe) and set them up as a lasting memorial.

“When your children ask their fathers in times to come, ‘What do these stones mean?’ then you shall let your children know, ‘Israel passed over this Jordan on dry ground.’” – Joshua 4:21–22

These “living stones” reminded Israel, and future generations, of God’s mighty power and faithful love.

Why We Need Reminders
It’s easy to forget what God has done in our own lives when the pressures of today feel overwhelming. But just as Israel raised their stones, we can set up memorials in our hearts, moments of testimony where we look back and remember God’s grace.

The psalmist captures this spirit well: “I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old.” – Psalm 77:11

These memories remind us that the same God who carried us through the past will be faithful in the future.

The Greatest Memorial
The Lord has also given His people a greater memorial: the Lord’s Supper. Each time we receive the bread and the cup, we proclaim the saving work of Jesus Christ and anticipate the day we will feast with Him in His kingdom. It is both remembrance and hope, anchoring us in His grace and pointing us toward His promise.

As Paul wrote: “For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.” – 1 Corinthians 11:26

Moving Forward
Pause and reflect on the “stones” in your own life. What moments of God’s faithfulness do you need to remember? Write them down. Share them with someone. Let them be living testimonies that point others to the God whose hand is mighty and whose love endures forever.

Rahab’s Broken Past
Rahab’s story in Joshua 2 is one of the most powerful testimonies of God’s redeeming grace. She lived in Jericho, a city under God’s judgment, and she was a prostitute, someone seen as an outsider not just by Israel, but even within her own culture. By every measure, she was far from God’s people and God’s promises.

A Bold Confession of Faith
And yet, when Rahab heard about what God had done—parting the Red Sea and giving Israel victory over powerful kings—she believed. Her confession was bold: “The Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath” (Josh. 2:11).

That confession changed everything. By faith, Rahab sheltered the Israelite spies at great personal risk. She turned her back on Jericho and threw herself completely on the mercy of Israel’s God. Hebrews 11:31 celebrates her as a woman of faith, and Matthew 1 includes her in the family line of Jesus Himself. The prostitute became a princess.

God’s Grace on Display
Why is that important? Because Rahab’s story reminds us that no past is too dark and no life too broken for God’s redeeming grace. What the world discards, God redeems. What people write off, God writes into His story.

Living This Out Today
That same grace should shape how we live as God’s people today. Just as God welcomed Rahab, He welcomes us. And just as He welcomed us, we are called to welcome others... new families moving into our town, visitors walking through our church doors, neighbors who may feel like outsiders. A simple act of kindness could be the open door someone needs to experience God’s love.

This week, remember Rahab. God took her from outsider to insider, from harlot to heir. That’s the power of His grace. Who in your life might feel like an outsider? A new neighbor? A coworker? A visitor at church? Take one step to reflect God’s welcome, invite them in, share a meal, or simply show kindness.

God welcomed us when we were outsiders. Now, it’s our turn to do the same.

This past Sunday we kicked off a new sermon series through the book of Joshua, beginning with chapter 1. The theme that rings throughout this opening chapter is both a command and a promise: “Be strong and courageous, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

God’s Commands to Joshua
As Israel prepared to cross into the Promised Land, God appointed Joshua to take Moses’ place as leader. The task before him was daunting: fierce enemies, fortified cities, and a nation looking to him for direction.

But Joshua’s strength wasn’t to come from military strategy or his own courage. God grounded his leadership in a greater reality: Immanuel — God with us.

“Just as I have been with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you” (v. 5).

That same truth is our foundation today. Whatever battles we face — financial struggles, health challenges, loneliness, or uncertainty — we can hold fast to the promise that Jesus is with us and will never leave us.

Joshua’s Call to the People
Joshua then turned to the people of Israel and said, “Get ready. In three days we’re crossing the Jordan.” This was a defining moment. A previous generation had shrunk back in fear. Would this one trust the Lord and move forward in faith?

The people’s response was encouraging: “All that you have commanded us we will do… Only may the Lord your God be with you as He was with Moses” (vv. 16–17). Their obedience and unity were essential for God’s people to receive His promises.

In the same way, the church today needs every member to “link arms” and serve. We don’t sit on the sidelines while others fight the battle. Every act of service, prayer, and faithfulness matters in God’s mission.

Courage for Us Today
The call to Joshua — “Be strong and courageous” — is the same call for us. God doesn’t promise a life free from battles, but He does promise His presence in the middle of them.

Whether you’re facing a personal trial or standing against the brokenness in our world, you don’t fight alone. Jesus is Immanuel. He is with us. And when we truly believe that, there is nothing we cannot endure for His glory.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

God calls His people to courageous obedience. What step of obedience is He asking of you this week? Don’t wait—trust Him, and take it boldly.

Few passages of Scripture are as loved and familiar as Psalm 23. It’s been sung, memorized, whispered at bedsides, and quoted in times of both joy and sorrow. Charles Spurgeon once called it “the nightingale of the Psalms,” while Max Lucado described it as God’s voice “whispering peace to the weary soul.”

What makes Psalm 23 so powerful is its simplicity and intimacy. A child can learn it, yet the greatest theologians never exhaust its depth. At its heart, this psalm is a confession: The Lord is my Shepherd.

Not just our Shepherd. Not a distant God. Not a vague spiritual force. David makes it personal: “The Lord is my Shepherd.”

That truth changes everything.

Our Generous Shepherd
David reminds us that because God is our Shepherd, we “shall not want.” He provides green pastures, still waters, restoration for our weary souls, and guidance in paths of righteousness. Even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we do not need to fear, for He is with us.

But there’s a challenge here too. We often let other voices drown out the Shepherd’s voice. Voices of doubt, fear, shame, and lies creep in. Yet Jesus said plainly, “My sheep know My voice.” His is the voice of truth and love—the only voice worth following.

Our Gracious Host
David shifts the picture in verses 5–6. God not only leads us as a Shepherd, but welcomes us as a Host. He prepares a table for us, blesses us so abundantly that our cup overflows, and secures us in His presence.

This is not temporary care. David declares that God’s goodness and mercy will pursue us all the days of our lives—and beyond that, we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
What greater promise could we ask for than this? A Shepherd who leads, protects, and provides. A Host who blesses, secures, and welcomes us into His eternal home.

This week, pause and make it personal: The Lord is my Shepherd. Say it out loud. Pray it when you’re anxious. Whisper it when you feel alone.

And here’s your next step—ask yourself:

• Whose voice am I listening to right now?
• Am I letting lies define me, or am I trusting the voice of the Good Shepherd?

Moving forward means walking in confidence, resting in His care, and following His lead—even through the valleys. Because with Christ as our Shepherd, we truly lack nothing.

A team from Calvary Baptist Church embarked on a powerful mission trip to Guatemala from July 1 to 8, guided by their unwavering faith and a desire to spread God's love. In partnership with Clubhouse Guatemala, a journey filled with spiritual growth and meaningful service unfolded as the team, including Pastor Ben Kimmell, Daniel Copeland, Eli Dorman, Will Moody, Melissa Moody, Ryan Moody, and Lauren Moody, embarked on their mission to impact lives and bring hope to the villages of Pacaya and El Pedrero, Guatemala.

Throughout their time in Guatemala, the team was guided by a deep spiritual conviction and a strong belief in the transformative power of God's love. Their actions reflected their faith and dedication to fulfilling their calling to serve others, focusing on both the physical and spiritual needs of the community.

With hearts filled with compassion, the team embarked on a variety of initiatives centered around improving the lives of the local population. They delivered essential food packs and water filters, ensuring that families had sustenance and access to clean drinking water. These acts of provision mirrored God's abundant care for His children, offering nourishment and refreshment in both a physical and spiritual sense.

The team assisted another church group in hosting Vacation Bible School (VBS) sessions, creating a space where children could experience God's love through engaging activities, uplifting music, and meaningful lessons. These sessions not only brought joy and laughter but also planted seeds of faith in the hearts of the young ones, nurturing their spiritual growth and creating a lasting impact.

Recognizing the importance of equipping spiritual leaders, Pastor Ben Kimmell and Daniel Copeland led pastor training sessions, imparting knowledge, wisdom, and spiritual guidance to local church leaders. By empowering these pastors, the team fostered the growth of a resilient and vibrant spiritual community, expanding God's kingdom in Guatemala.

Reflecting on the mission trip, Senior Pastor Ben Kimmell expressed gratitude, stating, "Our journey to Guatemala has been an extraordinary testament to the power of faith in action. Through the grace of God, we were able to touch lives, witness transformation, and experience the profound joy that comes from serving others. We are humbled and inspired by the incredible impact of this mission trip."

Will Moody, an integral member of the mission team, added, "As we served the people of Guatemala, we witnessed the hand of God at work, bringing hope, restoration, and renewal. This trip has reinforced our commitment to live out our faith and be instruments of His love in every aspect of our lives."

Calvary Baptist Church's mission trip to Guatemala, showcased the remarkable intersection of faith and service. Through their spiritual and physical efforts, the team exemplified God's love, leaving an indelible impact on the lives of the Guatemalan communities they touched.

United Youth, a dynamic collaboration of several local churches, recently ventured into the mountains of North Carolina for an extraordinary summer camp experience at Snowbird Wilderness Outfitters. With a turnout of 39 attendees, this week-long adventure brought together young minds, enthusiastic leaders, and a spirit of camaraderie that left a lasting impact on all involved.

Guided by dedicated chaperones and youth leaders, United Youth set off for the breathtaking landscape of Snowbird Wilderness Outfitters. Together, they engaged in a plethora of thrilling activities and embraced spiritual growth opportunities, forging lifelong memories, and deepening their connections.

Tristan Edens, the Associate Pastor of Students at Calvary Baptist Church, expressed his enthusiasm about the camp’s impact, stating, "Our week at Snowbird has been nothing short of a divine encounter for our youth from Taylor County. It has been a transformative journey where they have encountered God's presence in a powerful and tangible way. The sight of their hearts being set ablaze with passion for their faith and witnessing the redirection of their lives towards purpose and hope, stands as a powerful testament to the life-transforming power of God. The camp has served as a sacred space where their spirits were ignited, their faith was deepened, and their commitment to living a life of purpose was strengthened."

Kristy Goodman, a dedicated chaperone from Cornerstone Community Church, shared her joy in being part of the journey, saying, "It was a wonderful week. I am so thankful for the amazing community of believers these kids have surrounding them. I pray they each truly know that God is always with them and that they will remain faithful throughout their lives.”

From hiking through scenic trails to conquering rock-climbing challenges and from white-water rafting down the Nantahala River to soaring through the air on zip-lines, the camp provided a diverse range of thrilling experiences.

In addition to the exhilarating adventures, the camp also prioritized spiritual development, with daily devotional sessions, worship gatherings, and heartfelt discussions. These activities allowed the youth to explore their faith, deepen their understanding of their relationship with God, and nurture their spiritual journeys.

“Drawing inspiration from the life of Joseph, we discovered the power of faithfulness even in the face of adversity. Joseph's unwavering trust in God's plan, despite being sold into slavery and facing numerous challenges, served as a guiding light for us all. We learned that through perseverance and reliance on God, our trials can ultimately lead to triumph,” said Eli Dorman, a chaperone from Calvary.

Melissa Moody, a parent of two attending students, shared her appreciation for the camp's everlasting impact - "Witnessing the growth and development in my children after attending summer camp at Snowbird has been truly remarkable. The camp's emphasis on character-building, resilience, and faith has left an indelible mark on their life. I am thankful my children were able to be a part of this incredible experience."

The participation of United Youth from Taylor County at Snowbird Wilderness Outfitters exemplifies the power of community collaboration and shared values. By uniting their resources and passion for youth development, the participating churches created an environment where young individuals could thrive, grow, and discover their true potential.

Brian is a friend of the Bishops; Don, Allison, and Brian used to sing together as a trio. Kristy Goodman, Allison’s sister, asked Don and Allison if they would all three sing a song together as a close to the wonderful evening. Willingly, the Bishops agreed to sing a song with Brian. They choose “I Just Keep Watching the Gates,” a staple song of the trio.

“It was very difficult to keep the secret of the surprise banquet from Don and Allison, as they are so involved in every event Calvary hosts,” said Eli Dorman, the banquet director. However, my team of coordinators and helpers pulled off the surprise banquet, and a great time was had by all. I would like to extend a huge thank you to Trina Bean, Mary Roberts, Anna Kimmell, Marti Lee, Abbey Tharpe, the Will and Melissa Moody family, and all that took part in making this night perfect and unforgettable.” Eli continued, “Not only would I like to thank the aforementioned people for their help, but also to the young girls for serving in childcare and the POGC Key Club for their outstanding service as waiters/waitresses. They did a great job managing their tables while also being friendly and attentive to the banquet guests.”

Calvary Baptist and Cornerstone Community Churches have become partners in many of their ministries, including: youth, children, and missions. This past week the two churches hosted their combined Vacation Bible School; Treasured: Discovering You’re Priceless to God was the theme of the week. Each day, a particular theme was woven throughout the group stations. Those themes consisted of God knows you, God hears you, God forgives you, God comforts you, and God chooses you.

The attendance rose to over 170 during the week. Each night the children and volunteers were fed in a timely manner by the amazing kitchen staff compromised of the two churches. Shortly after dinner, opening ceremony began where the children would learn about the theme of the day, character of the day, and dance together to a VBS song. Following opening ceremony, there were four stations for each class to attend, music, lesson, crafts, and games. Each class rotated in 25 minute rotations to allow ample time for each class.

Angie Gibson, member of Cornerstone said, “VBS this week was absolutely amazing! It was refreshing to see churches working together to reach the children of our community.”

Both churches were instrumental in providing volunteers for decorating committee, kitchen staff, teachers, and group leaders. More than 40 volunteers came together to make VBS 2021 the best for the more than 170 children in attendance. “None of this would have been possible without our excellent team of volunteers,” said Austin Bishop, Elder of Calvary Baptist Church, “These volunteers have spent countless hours decorating, cooking, planning, and cleaning to make our Treasured VBS one to remember.”

“Each night we closed our ceremony with the Church Clap,” said Eli Dorman, Media Director of Calvary Baptist Church, “Seeing all the children attempt the Church Clap dance would make anyone smile; they looked forward to it every night.”

Calvary and Cornerstone closed their VBS week with a music and dance session in which the parents attended to watch their children. The children sang and danced to songs All That I Am, Wild About Us, and Sing Wherever I Go, along with others.

“Such an incredible week sharing the Gospel with so many precious kids,” said Amy Sherrer, Ministry Coordinator at Cornerstone Community Church, “Children - and adults - had so much fun learning how treasured they are by God! Each night was full of singing, dancing, games, crafts and treats. There isn’t anything better than watching a kid’s face light up, realizing that God hears and chooses them.”

During the week of June 7-12, Calvary Baptist and Cornerstone Community Churches took 34 students and 6 chaperones to summer camp at Snowbird Wilderness Outfitters in Andrews, NC. Snowbird features bold, expositional teaching, high-adventure recreation, and gospel-centered discipleship. Their dedicated staff of over 100 college students works intentionally to build relationships with students throughout the week and point them to a life-saving and world-changing relationship with Christ. With powerful worship and compelling instructions from God's Word, Calvary and Cornerstone students were confronted throughout the week with the doctrine and attributes of God.

"We learned that God is love, God is good, God is just, God is faithful, among many other fundamental biblical truths," said Pastor Ben Kimmell.

"Calvary and Cornerstone," he added, "have developed a unique partnership for children's and student ministries. In a context where churches often compete rather than cooperate, Calvary and Cornerstone are forging a path to show what's possible when churches put kingdom priorities ahead of their own interests. We'll be restarting our United Youth gatherings in the fall. Whereas last year, COVID limited us to meeting every other week, we plan to meet each week at Cornerstone facilities at the Taylor County Middle School. We invite all area churches to join us as we seek to make disciples of Taylor County students for the glory of King Jesus."