How to S.O.A.P

The S.O.A.P. method is our guide to exercising our "spiritual muscles" on a daily basis. 

Step 1: Read the Daily Bible Reading

 Step 2: Reflect on the reading by journaling, using the S.O.A.P method 

Step 3: Discuss your reflections with someone else at least once during the week.  

As you read the passages, ask the Lord to bring to your attention to one part of the text in particular. Identify a verse that stood out to you amongst the others or that the Holy Spirit is speaking to you to focus on. Write the verse you identify in your journal. 

Consider the verse that caught your attention. Take into context the setting and situation. Again, ask the Lord to reveal to you something you may have never seen in the text before. Make an observation--maybe about what's happening or who's affected. Write or paraphrase this observation down in your journal in a short paragraph.

 Consider how you can apply the scripture you identified to your life. Maybe it’s encouragement, instruction, correction for an area of your life or revelation of a new promise. Ask yourself, "How will I be different today as a result of what I've just read?" Write a short paragraph about how you will put into practice what the Lord just showed you. 

Close your personal devotion by writing out a sincere prayer to God. Express your heart concerning what you've journaled about, ask Him to help you apply what you've learned, and thank Him for the power of His word! 

An essential element of More Than Sunday at The Gathering Place is actively engaging in the word together. Sharing your devotional with another person is a powerful action that fulfills God's calling that we spread His word with others. There are lots of opportunities to do this with our Life Groups during the week!