GAIN CONFIDENCE READING THE BIBLE
SOAP is a simple process. The point to it is to regularly read, reflect on a few thoughts or principles that apply to your life, and then to record what you have learned. Simple. SOAP isn’t to impress. It is simply you recording what God is saying to you and sharing it with your spouse, group, or a friend.
How to SOAP
- Read a couple of chapters in the Bible. Start off with Proverbs or the book of Luke.
- Focus on one verse, thought, idea, or concept.
- Record your reflections using the SOAP acrostic.
S Scripture Write the one specific verse that got your attention.
O Observe Record what you observe in the passage, who is involved, what is happening.
A Apply Record how you will be different today because of what you have just read.
P Pray Record a prayer that closes out your time.
Using SOAP regularly will increase your confidence in the Bible, develop spiritual rhythm in your life, help you to grow in your faith, AND keep you clean!
Sample SOAP
Title: Try It FREE for 30 Days
Scripture He is the one who died to cleanse us and clear our record. Hebrews 1:3
Observation What happens to all that crap from bad choices? Like nuclear waste it stays with us unless we get connected to the “He” as in Jesus. [For some this is a fairy tale – for others it is fresh air]. He takes it away. Cleans up the mess. Offers a fresh start. That’s good news!
Application Think about it. A free gift of a fresh start. A no obligation offer – where do you get something like that? “Hey, I will take all your mistakes. All your guilt, and give you a fresh start. No strings attached.” Think for a moment on what kind of person would make such an offer?
Prayer I need you to clear my record – I have tried too long to do it on my own. Like cleaning my windshield after a long day on I-5 coming down from Redding, CA I just can’t get all the baked dead bugs off. Yes, I really need you – not only to clean it all up, but to show me a better way.
NOTE: What Bible to use? The Life Application Bible: New International Version [NIV] is suggested. It has maps, commentary, and biographies of key characters, charts, and references. SOAP was developed by Pastor Wayne Cordeiro