WHAT IS S.O.A.P.?
S.O.A.P. is a simple journaling outline that you can use when you have your daily devotional. It's designed to help you grow in your personal relationship with God and in the knowledge of God's word. As we read God's word (the Bible), we begin to see how God responds to things. Doing daily devotions re-patterns the way we think and transforms the spirit of the mind. Then, when we face similar situations as Jesus did, we begin to respond in the same way.
Journaling is part of the process of doing your daily S.O.A.P.
Journaling is an excellent way to both record and process what God has spoken to us. It's also a useful tool to use at a later time to reflect on and review some of the "gems" that you have received. Without writing these down, you may forget those blessings and some very important lessons! While journaling is a very personal time with the Lord, you may want to share some of your daily devotions with your family, small group, or mentors. Through discussion, you may be able to look deeper into what God is speaking to you, gain new insights and even encourage others.
Open your Bible to the TFC recommended reading listed below or your own personal reading plan and take time to read and allow God to speak to you When you're done, look for a verse that spoke to you that day, and write it in your journal. Focus on one main thought from your daily reading.
What do you think God is saying to you in this scripture? Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you and reveal Jesus to you through the scripture. Make an observation of what's happening, who's affected, and what's taking place. Paraphrase and write this Scripture down in your own words in your journal.
Personalize what you have read, by asking yourself "How will I be different today because of what I've just read?" Perhaps it is instruction, encouragement, revelation of a new promise, or corrections for a particular area of your life. Write how this Scripture can apply to you today.
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.
WHY SHOULD WE HAVE A PERSONAL S.O.A.P?
The heart of Pastor John for our staff and the families of TFC is to develop a love for the word of God and a daily discipline to learn more about or to live life God's way. We want to grow stronger together as a family. S.O.A.P helps you feed yourself the word of God and take responsibility for your own spiritual health and nourishment. No one but you can sit before the Lord to hear His instructions for your life. This is not about starting another program or adding another religious duty to your "to-do" list. It is all about growing in our personal relationship with God.
