S.O.A.P.
Why We S.O.A.P?
At Elevation, our desire is that every believer would not just attend church, but also hear from God daily through His Word! As we read the Bible, we begin to see how God responds to things. Doing daily devotions re-patterns the way we think, transforms the spirit of our mind, and helps us become more like Jesus! S.O.A.P. journaling is a simple and excellent way to both record and process what God has spoken to you. It’s also a useful tool to use at a later time when you want to reflect on and review some of the ‘gems’ that you have received.
Without writing them down, you may forget those blessings and important revelation. Furthermore, 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 very 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.
Scripture
Open your Bible to the reading found under today’s date of your Bible bookmark. Take time reading and allow God to speak to you. When you are done, look for a verse that particularly spoke to you that day, and write it in your journal.
Observation
What do you think God is saying to you in this scripture? Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you and reveal Jesus to you. Paraphrase and write this Scripture down in your own words in your journal.
Application
Personalize what you have read, by asking yourself how it applies to your life right now. Perhaps it is instruction, encouragement, revelation of a new promise, or corrections for a particular area of your life. Write down how this Scripture can apply to you today.
Prayer
This can be as simple as asking God to help you use this Scripture, or it may be 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.
New to S.O.A.P.
If you're new to the SOAP Method of Bible Study, we want to help you thrive as you engage the Word of God. Pastor Daniel preached a series on messages on the Bible study method. Check them out!
Part 1: An Overview
Part 2: Scripture/Observation
Part 3: Application
Part 4: Prayer
Bible App + Reading Plans
Level One: 21 Days in the Gospel of John
The Gospel of John is a great place to start reading the Scriptures. It gives you a great picture of Jesus as a man, and as the Son of God.
Level Two: 90 Days in the New Testament
From the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, all the way to the final book of Revelation, God will speak to you throughout the teachings of those who were transformed by our Savior.
Level Three: The Bible in One Year
This plan takes readers through the entirety of Scripture in one year, including readings from the Old Testament, New Testament and either a Psalm or Proverb each day.
If you want to explore the S.O.A.P. concept or see examples of journal entries, you can visit www.LifeJournal.cc.
