Amid the demands of daily life as homemakers, professionals, and faithful servants in the church, the Nazareno women of Dili continue to show remarkable dedication to strengthening their spiritual lives. At Amazing Grace Church of the Nazarene, they have taken a step of faith through the BIBLIA MARATHON, a continuous Bible-reading movement that has become a meaningful source of encouragement and spiritual growth for each participant.
The Bible Marathon is a movement to read the Bible sequentially, starting from Genesis and continuing sequentially through Revelation. This activity is carried out with a shared commitment to read the Bible daily, starting with Genesis and continuing sequentially through Revelation. Each day, participants read a portion of a designated book and then share a summary of the Scriptures they have received privately in a WhatsApp group. Through this simple method, God’s Word is not only read but also meditated on, internalized, and shared as a living testimony that encourages one another.
Interestingly, after every three books are read, the women hold a group review session. On this occasion, they shared testimonies about how God’s Word spoke personally, rebuking, comforting, strengthening, and even providing answers to the life struggles they were facing. Moments like these became a means of real faith growth, as God’s Word actively worked in their lives.
Praise God, the BIBLIA MARATHON journey has now reached 1 Samuel chapter 15. This is a milestone to be grateful for, as it demonstrates the women’s perseverance and faithfulness in maintaining their spiritual discipline. Behind each chapter read, there are lessons of faith that continue to shape their character and deepen their knowledge of God.
Through the stories of the Bible, the women of Amazing Grace Nazareno learned about the faith of Abraham, the obedience of Moses, the courage of Joshua, and the faithfulness of other figures whose lives God used. These are not just stories from the past but relevant life lessons to apply in everyday life.
The Bible Marathon has been a tremendous means of growing in faith. The women reported feeling strengthened, having stronger hearts in Christ, and experiencing a more personal connection with God. Reading and meditating on God’s Word daily helped them not be easily shaken by life’s challenges. This simple activity served as a reminder that spiritual growth doesn’t always require a large program. Diligence in reading the Word, an open heart, and a supportive community can bring profound change.
May this Bible Marathon continue to be a blessing not only for the Amazing Grace women in Dili, Timor-Leste, but also for many other congregations, inspiring them to deepen their love for God’s Word. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105).