S.O.A.P.
At High Point Church our desire is that every believer would receive something from God’s word on a daily basis. Doing daily devotions re-patterns the way we think, focuses our prayer life, and transforms the way we hear and apply God’s word. When we face difficult situations, challenges, or temptations, we can call upon the wisdom of God’s word and respond accordingly.
Journaling is an excellent way to both record and process what God has spoken to us. It also becomes useful as a reference tool to reflect on and review some of the gems that you have received in the past. Without writing them down, you may forget those blessings, as well as some very important lessons! And although journaling provides for a very personal time with the Lord, you may end up wanting to share some of your daily journaling with others (e.g. your connection group, accountability group, or spouse). By discussing your devotions with others, you may be able to learn even more about what God was speaking to you, as well as offer encouragement to others. We call this daily process S.O.A.P (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer).
How to S.O.A.P.
Pick a place and a time. Try and keep it consistent so you do not let everything else in life take precedence. Plan on taking as much time as you need but I recommend 20 minutes to read and 20 minutes for observation, application, and prayer. You may need more time or less time but this will get you into a pattern of being in God’s presence on a daily basis.
You’ll need four items: bible, pen, reading plan, and journal. A program like Youversion.com is a useful way to store your journals and show you a daily reading plan.
S for Scripture
Open your Bible to your reading for the day. Take time as you read and allow God to speak to you. When you are done, look for a verse that particularly spoke to you and write it in your journal. (About 20 min.)
O for 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.
A for Application
Personalize what you have read by asking yourself how it applies to your life right now. It may be instruction, encouragement, a new promise, or even corrections for a particular area of your life. Write down how this scripture applies to you today.
P for 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! Then write it out. For more information on this concept or to see examples of journal entries, visit www.LifeJournal.cc.