SOAP

I lifted this from Mama Sue's blog (who lifted it from someone else's blog) and it has changed my daily Bible reading. It has given me real direction in applying what I've read. I've filled my journal with pages each day using this real simple process. It's called SOAP and here's the breakdown:


S for Scripture
Open your Bible to the section you're reading today. (I've been going through the "One Year Bible" so much easier, they tell you what to read every day - much less hunting and pecking and you read stuff you normally wouldn't read like Leviticus) Take time reading and allow God to speak to you. Highlight, underline or place a mark in the margin of your Bible, next to the scriptures that stand out. When you are done, reread the verses you marked, look for one that particularly spoke to you that day, and write it in your journal.

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. Paraphrase and write this scripture down in your own words, in your journal.

A for 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 how this scripture can apply 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! Now, write it out.