S.O.A.P
WHY WE S.O.A.P.
Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
At Radiant, our desire is every believer would not just attend church, but also encounter God daily through His Word!
When we read books, listen to music or look at a piece of art, the more we consume it, the more we start to encounter the heart of the artist or creator. The same thing happens when we read scripture, but on a more intimate level. As we read scripture we start to encounter the living God and His heart for humanity. When we read the bible it becomes God’s living-voice to us.
Doing daily devotions re-patterns the way we think, transforms the spirit of our mind, and helps us live out our faith as disciples of Jesus. S.O.A.P. journaling is a simple way to both record and process what God has spoken or ministered to you. Also, it is a useful tool to look back, reflect at a later time and review some of the ‘gems’ that you have received.
Without writing down your thoughts, you may forget those blessings or important revelation Holy Spirit gave. While journaling is a very personal time with the Lord, you may want to share some of your daily journaling with your community or spouse, so having a written record becomes important. Through discussion, you may be able to look deeper into what God is speaking to you, gain new insight, and even encourage others. All you need to begin is a Bible, pen and journal!
HOW TO S.O.A.P.
S - SCRIPTURE
Open your Bible to your reading for the day. Take time reading and allow God to speak to you through the text. When you are done, look for a verse that particularly spoke to you, and write it in your journal.
O - OBSERVATION
What do you sense God is saying to you in this scripture? Be thoughtful here. Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you and reveal His heart to you. This is about listening to what God is speaking to you. Write down in a sentence or two your observation.
A - APPLICATION
Personalize what you have read, by asking yourself how it applies to your life right now. Our response can take on many forms. Perhaps it is instruction, encouragement, a new promise, an action, or corrections for a particular area of your life. Write how this scripture can apply to you today.
P - PRAYER
This can be as simple as asking God to help you use this scripture, or even a prayer for a greater insight on what He may be revealing to you. Remember, prayer is a two-way conversation, so be sure to listen to what God has to say! Now, write it out.