During this last leadership class I introduced the teens to S.O.A.P. I recently learned of this simple Bible study method. I have encouraged the teen leaders to do four of these this week with a partner. Here is the method.
Soap stands for Scripture, Observation, Application and Prayer. It is a journaling method of Bible study. This means you need a journal or note book (or blog ;) ). As you read through scripture follow the steps below.
Scripture
Choose a passage of scripture. Pray that God gives you understanding into His Word. Take time reading and allow God to speak to you. Highlight, underline or place a mark in the margin of your Bible next to the scriptures that stand out. When you are done, reread the verse(s) you marked. In your journal, write down at least one that particularly spoke to you.
Observation
What do you think God is saying in this scripture? Write a paraphrase (rewrite the scripture in your own words). What is God saying to you through this scripture. Write it down.
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.
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. You may want to use the scripture as inspiration for your prayer. Remember, prayer is a two-way conversation, so be sure to listen to what God has to say! You may be surprised to find more insight during your prayer. Write it down.
By journaling your time in the Bible you are more apt to remember what you are reading which in turn can be used by the Holy Spirit in your life.
Soap stands for Scripture, Observation, Application and Prayer. It is a journaling method of Bible study. This means you need a journal or note book (or blog ;) ). As you read through scripture follow the steps below.
Scripture
Choose a passage of scripture. Pray that God gives you understanding into His Word. Take time reading and allow God to speak to you. Highlight, underline or place a mark in the margin of your Bible next to the scriptures that stand out. When you are done, reread the verse(s) you marked. In your journal, write down at least one that particularly spoke to you.
Observation
What do you think God is saying in this scripture? Write a paraphrase (rewrite the scripture in your own words). What is God saying to you through this scripture. Write it down.
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.
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. You may want to use the scripture as inspiration for your prayer. Remember, prayer is a two-way conversation, so be sure to listen to what God has to say! You may be surprised to find more insight during your prayer. Write it down.
By journaling your time in the Bible you are more apt to remember what you are reading which in turn can be used by the Holy Spirit in your life.
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