This blog is to explain something I will be adding at the end of each blog. It is called SOAP, and it is a "DIY" (do it yourself) kind of devotional. SOAP stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. All you need is your bible, and a journal and pen if you want to record your answers down.
Why Journal?
I love journaling. It is a great way to see your journey and walk with God progress. Sometimes I will open up the first couple of pages from my old journal and read all my old prayer requests and see how God chose to answer those prayers. A lot of times it is easy to get caught up in the life that the world provides us with and distracts us with, instead of walking day by day with the Lord. Journaling is a great way to start off your day as well as end your day.
Example:
I am going to give you an example of S.O.A.P that I just did from the book of Philippians. Coach Brewer made us a template on what soap is, and suggested a 5 week study through this chapter. I will share with you this document after my example :)
Here is a simple example of what SOAP is through the passage Philippians 1:1-18.
- SCRIPTURE: "In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with Joy because of your partnership int he Gospel form the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" -Philippians 1:4-6"
- OBSERVATION: First thing I noticed was Paul's use of the word "JOY". Joy is internal and everlasting happiness. Praying with joy is more meaningful then praying with happiness. Also, pray with joy knowing that Jesus will bring good work to my life when I seek him with my whole heart. HE who created a good work will carry it on. Paul is writing this to give encouragement to all the Saints at Phillipi. He basically is telling them, don't give up if you don't see immediate results.
- APPLICATION: In order to apply this to my life, I need to remember that my timing may not always be similar with His timing. A perfect example is with seeking a relationship. What I may think is a perfect time for me to have a boyfriend, may not be God's idea as perfect timing. Little reminders like Paul's allow me not to get discouraged. Also, the part where he says "he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion". I know i seek for immediate "results" is many different ways when it comes to AIA, prayer requests, bible studies, or even with relationships with people who matter. I seem to think that if i do this, then God will do this. But no, God has a plan and his timing is perfect, and He will carry out my good works with His perfect timing.
- PRAYER: Dear Lord, Thank you for this beautiful sunny day. I Thank you for giving me 30 minutes of quiet time where I was able to draw near to you, and be encouraged by your word. I pray that the next time negative or lonely thoughts arise in my head, that my first worried thought can be put into a prayer. I know you know every single thought that goes on in my head, and even thought i may not understand them, help me to surrender my worries to you. I pray that i am also humbled by the words i read today. Your promise is so much greater then any part time satisfaction i may receive from my good works. Help me to seek your recognition and be patient when i do not understand your grace. Your plan for me, your thoughts about me, and your desires are all greater then my own. I pray for my family, my teammates, and my roommates back at home. Thank you for giving me another day to experience your love. AMEN.
This is a template of SOAP with more explanation!
Because I am in California, I will not be at huddle tomorrow, and Torin will be leading it. Keep your eye out for a text from him or myself!
-Abigale McFaul
Smu AIA President
Lover of Jesus
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
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