NEED SOME S.O.A.P.?
If we want to grow in our relationship with God - and who doesn't - it is a good thing to get into the habit
of reading part of the Bible every day and praying (talking) to God about what you read.
An excellent way to have a Daily Time with Jesus is to check in daily with an on-line devotion - you can go to the site every day and receive inspiration and guidance in your life and prayer time.
Click on this link for CROSSWALK DEVOTIONALS and you'll find plenty of inspiration for your devotional life.
Another way you can do this is to use the S.O.A.P. program. By using a journal and recording your findings using the acrostic, S.O.A.P., you will be surprised at what God will reveal to you and how he will speak to you. Click on the Bible Readings link above and you will find a day by day list of Scriptures to follow on your journey with God.
S – Scripture. As you read the passages, pray that the Holy Spirit will cause one verse to stand out for you. Write that verse down at the top of your page. That’s the Scripture.
Example: S – “God comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort others.” 2 Cor. 1:4
O – Observation. Write down those things you are observing about that particular piece of Scripture.
Example: O – “God’s intention of providing his people with comfort, is so that his people can offer God’s comfort to others.”
A – Application for Life. Ask yourself, ‘How can I apply this piece of Scripture to my life today.’ Write it down.
Example: A – “Sometimes I feel emotionally dry to the needs of others. I need to allow God to comfort me and soak up his comfort, so that I can become better at comforting to others.”
P – Prayer. Write a simple prayer based on what you have already written.
Example: P – “Lord, reveal to me those things that dull my senses to you. Help me to experience your comfort, so that I can comfort others.”
SCRIPTURE — What word stands out?
OBSERVE — What do I see?
APPLY — What does this mean for me?
PRAYER — Thank you Lord