S.O.A.P. is short for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. This is a tool  to help you get the most out of your personal time in God’s Word.

S FOR SCRIPTURE – Take time reading a scripture passage and allow God to speak to you. When you are done, look for a verse that particularly spoke to you that day, and write it in a journal.

O FOR OBSERVATION – What do you see in the verses that you’re reading? Take into consideration the context of the passage. Make an observation of what’s happening, who’s affected, what’s taking place. Look for repetition of words.

A FOR APPLICATION – Personalize what you have read, by asking yourself how it applies to your life right now.  What’s God saying to you personally through this passage?  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. Look for ways to act on what God has said to you.

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. If this seems a little overwhelming, take it slow and keep it simple.

*The S.O.A.P. method is a guide for personal study and journaling that was adapted from the book, Divine Mentor by Pastor Wayne Cordeiro, Lead Pastor of New Hope Church in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Find  S.O.A.P. Groups that have openings for new members here !