When our ministry adopted the motto Faith over Fear, we thought it was a beautiful declaration—something to inspire us, something to remind us of who God is. But in the years that followed, God transformed those three words into a lived testimony. Through Discipleship in Unexpected Ways, operating our nonprofit travel ministry TravelerJourneys.life, we have now led seven group tours to the Holy Land—and our October 2026 tour will be our eighth. After taking groups to Israel in October 2024 and June 2025—both during active conflict—we can say with confidence: God’s faithfulness is not theoretical. It is experiential. It is miraculous. It is real.

And we have seen it with our own eyes.

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Walking in the Land Where God Still Moves

Israel has always been a place where Scripture comes alive, but in these recent seasons, it has also become the place where we’ve watched God write new stories—stories of protection, provision, salvation, and joy.

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A 100th Birthday Celebration in the Middle of a Missile Crisis

One of the most unforgettable moments came in June 2025, when a beloved ministry travel alumnus celebrated his 100th birthday in Israel. It was the very week Iran launched missiles toward the nation. Flights shut down. The country went into shelter mode. And yet, there we were—worshiping, praying, and celebrating a century of life in the land of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. No fear. Just loving the new experiences every day, coming to know Israeli’s in their element, watching them unite for one another and for us.

We ended up staying four extra days, exploring a nearly closed and sheltered Israel. Even in that, God led us through Jerusalem and to the Western Wall, alone and without distraction, to revel in all He was doing to care for Israel, including us. That unexpected time gave us a deeper appreciation for the resilience of the people and the nation that protects our biblical heritage. Faith over Fear looked like a 100‑year‑old man saying, “Yes, Lord—send me,” even when the world said stay home.

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New Believers Finding Hope in the Jordan River

We’ve watched new believers step into the waters of the Jordan—some trembling, some weeping, all transformed. Baptisms in Israel are never ordinary, but during wartime, they carried a deeper meaning. These weren’t just symbolic acts. They were declarations: “My life belongs to Jesus, and I will follow Him anywhere.”

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Miracles in the Middle of Missiles

There were moments when missiles were flying overhead every hour. Sirens sounded. News headlines blared. And yet, in the middle of it all, we saw God open doors that no human could have forced open.

Flights that should have been canceled weren’t. Roads that should have been closed weren’t. Connections that should have been impossible were suddenly available.

Not one traveler was harmed. Not one itinerary was derailed. Not one moment was outside His covering.

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The Egypt Miracle at the Taba Border

One of the most dramatic moments came when we had to leave Israel through Egypt in June 2025. At the Taba border, we faced confusion over visa fees and policies that didn’t feel right. I stepped aside to pray with a friend, asking God for clarity and help.

When we returned to the hall, standing there—like an angel with long, flowing white hair—was our Egypt agent, the very man who helps us handle logistics when we route groups through Egypt. Neither of us knew the other would be there. He hugged me and said, “It’s so good to see you. Can I help?” I melted into his care, thankful for a God that saw my need and answered so perfectly.

Ahmed then escorted us three hours to Sharm el‑Sheikh, handled every document, and even worked with EgyptAir to delay two flights so our group could reach Athens that night. My group watched in awe as God answered prayer in real time. It was God in action, unmistakable and undeniable.

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A Living God Who Still Protects His People

People often ask us, “Weren’t you afraid?” The honest answer: We felt the weight of the moment, but we also felt the presence of God more strongly than ever.

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Fear is loud, but God is louder. War is real, but so is His protection. Uncertainty is constant, but so is His faithfulness. What a witness to face the world’s fear and trust in the God of creation to be blessed with these wondrous experiences!

We didn’t go recklessly. We went prayerfully. And every time, God confirmed that He was leading the way. When we trust God, He paves the way and makes it happen. Whatever He has planned is best…and what a joy it is to experience that!

We are deeply grateful for American Israel Tours, who trusted our faith, supported every Spirit‑led decision, and stood with us through every challenge. Their partnership has been a blessing beyond measure.

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Why We’re Going Back Again—and Why You Should Too

To every tour operator, travel agent, traveler, and Christ follower reading this:

Now is the time to plan your groups, motivate your people, and GET TO ISRAEL.

Israel needs travelers. Travelers need Israel. And God is still moving there.

We’ve lived the miracles. We’ve seen His protection. We’ve watched Him transform fear into faith, uncertainty into testimony, and travelers into worshipers.

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And we believe He has more in store.

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Faith over Fear isn’t just our motto. It’s our story. And it can be yours too. There is no reason not to go!

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Debbie Winsett Director, Discipleship in Unexpected Ways / TravelerJourneys.life

May 15, 2026