I recently ran across a great journaling plan for Bible Study by Pastor Wayne Cordeiro of New Hope Church in Oahu, Hawaii. Wayne has made journaling quite easy by developing the following system using the word SOAP as an acronym. If you don’t already journal, I would whole-heartedly courage you to give it a try using this very practical method.
S = Scripture
Open your Bible to the reading found under today's date of your Bible bookmark. Take time reading 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 your journal.
O = 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 = 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 = 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.
I couldn’t stand to go without my shower every morning, including a good scrubbing with soap. Once you start your morning with this other type SOAP you will find that your desire for the Spiritual SOAP will be just a compelling. Give it a try. I think you’ll like it.
