And just like that, the 2024 National Bible Bee season has come to a close. It is always an amazing experience to be in the presence of the Lord among fellow believers, celebrating what the participants have studied and memorized throughout the year, and glorifying God through all of the achievements. This year, the NBB theme of “Truth” took all the participants, families, and hosts through John 13-20, studying the truth of who Jesus is and what he has done for the world, and through Daniel 1-6, taking us through the life of Daniel, a man who bravely looked ahead toward the coming of a King as he faced persecution and exile due to his faith and heritage. We pray that you have been impacted through this study and have stored up the word of God in your heart, ready to use and pull from memory.
Every year can be a bittersweet year for our Senior division, ages 15-18, as many “age out” of the competition and are no longer eligible to compete in the coming years once they pass over the age requirement. However, the impact of the National Bible Bee Competition goes far beyond the competition, and this goes for involvement in the summer study and competition, as well. The National Bible Bee sets us up for an opportunity to “know God’s Word and make Him known.” Whether a senior aging out goes on to become a host, study with any siblings still competing, volunteering at the national competition, or other things within the realm of the National Bible Bee, or on their own keep up with what they have learned and stored in their hearts, the National Bible Bee still continues to make an incredible impact on the lives of its current and past participants.
Below are some reflections from an alumna, Ellia Pentimone, who just aged out after this year’s 2024 National Bible Bee Competition, and has been involved in the National Bible Bee since she was seven years old.
Hi Ellia! Welcome to the National Bible Bee blog! We’d love to hear more about your NBB journey. How long did you participate in the National Bible Bee?
I started when I was 7 years old, which was in 2013. I didn’t qualify 2013 or 2014, but I’ve qualified every year since.
What has been your favorite NBB theme and/or study passage and why?
My favorite theme and study passage was definitely Redeemed and Isaiah 40-48 in 2022! I had always been intimidated by the prophets because I thought they were hard to understand, and while they are, it also taught me that there is SO much to learn through the prophets! I learned so much about the character of God and found many amazing promises!
What is something that the Lord has taught you through the National Bible Bee Competition?
Through the NBBC, I’ve really come to realize the importance of the Word of God and not only that, but I’ve learned more that true joy is found in Christ alone. I can pursue after other things of this world, but in the end, it won’t bring true satisfaction and joy and will just pass away, but we know that God’s Word will remain forever and it is an eternal investment to spend time in His Word and with Christ.
How has participating in the NBB and studying/memorizing the Bible impacted your life?
NBBC has taught me how to really dig deep into a passage. It’s too easy to just read over a passage, but when you start to dig in, you see just how much there really is in each and every passage. I know that the truths that the Lord has taught me will go with me throughout my life in whatever I’m facing!
Amen! Thank you so much for sharing that! The National Bible Bee really does make an incredible impact on so many as they dive into God’s Word and building a closer relationship with Him. What is something that greatly encouraged you or was most helpful to you during your time as a contestant?
The continual support from my parents was an amazing encouragement to me. From listening to hours of verses, writing questions, or just encouraging me when my studying wasn’t going very well. They were always there for me: supporting, loving, and encouraging me to continue on and most importantly to do it for His glory!
What would you say to encourage a first time participant thinking about signing up and even going to the national competition?
Just go for it! Try it out. Dive right into it. I know it can be a lot at first, but let me tell you that it is worth every. Single. Minute. [National] Bible Bee has made a huge impact on my life and I’ve made lifelong friends through it!
Thank you for providing some insight into your experiences, Ellia! Praise the Lord for another wonderful year of the National Bible Bee Competition!
Written by NBB Alumna: Emma Fernandez
