Building a Culture of the Word: IFGF Jogja’s Journey in Bible Reading & Journaling
Since August 2022, IFGF Jogja has begun instilling a simple yet highly impactful culture: daily Bible reading and journaling. Initially, we used a mutually agreed-upon Bible plan from the YouVersion Bible App. Each member would then share their journaling reflections within their respective iCare groups, creating a space to edify, strengthen, and grow together in the Word of God.
This journey did not stop there. Entering 2025, IFGF Jogja took a step further by adopting and restructuring its own Bible plan: the 2-Year Chronological Bible Reading Plan. This plan was designed to help the congregation read the Bible sequentially according to the historical timeline, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the storyline and God’s work throughout history.
In the process, IFGF Jogja received support from the International Full Gospel Fellowship (IFGF Global), which assisted in publishing this Bible plan through the official IFGF account on the YouVersion Bible App. Initially, the plan was submitted on a monthly basis. However, over time, the entire two-year reading plan has been compiled into a single, complete plan, making it more widely accessible to congregations globally.
Although this culture is still being built and strengthened, its impact is already being tangibly felt in the personal lives of many congregation members. One such impact is reflected in the testimony of an IFGF Jogja leader, Mr. Eddy Susanto:
I truly feel that taking the time to journal every day has brought an incredible transformation to my heart. Through writing, I can release all the burdens on my mind, organize my messy emotions, and refocus on God’s promises. It feels so peaceful when I can be honest with myself and evaluate my steps without feeling judged. This isn’t just a routine; it’s my best way to maintain my sanity and realign my heart once again.”
This testimony illustrates that reading the Word of God and journaling is not merely a spiritual activity, but also a means of restoration, self-reflection, and both emotional and spiritual growth.
This culture also shapes a consistent spiritual discipline. Many congregation members have started setting aside specific time each morning to read the Bible, meditate on the Word, and then pour it out in writing. What started as being “forced” into a habit has now transformed into a necessity.
We believe that the Word of God, when read daily, will instill values, renew the mind, and direct the steps of our lives. Journaling helps each individual not only to read but also to process, understand, and authentically live out the Word.
Let us continue building this habit together. There is no need to wait for a long block of time simply set aside a few minutes each day. Start with one verse, one reflection, and one small step of obedience. In simple consistency, God works to shape our hearts to become more like His.
Because ultimately, it is not about how much we read, but how deeply the Word transforms our lives. Let’s join millions of others in seeking God every day. You can directly access the 2-Year Chronological Bible Reading Plan. Let’s join in and grow together!
Source: IFGF Jogja Team
