Do you use SOAP?

Do you use SOAP?

I’m not talking about the type of soap that you use to clean your hands or body.  This SOAP is a method used to study the Bible and with the next GMG study starting next week (November 11) I wanted to take a couple of minutes and talk to you about this method.

There are many way to study the Bible, but the one way that I learned through doing the GMG studies is called SOAP.  These letters stand for S-scripture, O-observation, A-application, and finally P-prayer.  I have to say this is one of the easiest ways to study, aside from Lectio Davina which I learned from Natalie Snapp, but that’s another post.

Now…to dig a little deeper and explain just a little more.

S-Scripture

This part of soaping pertains to the part of your bible you are reading.  You might have a verse that stands out during your reading or you might be concentrating on one or a few verses.  If you are studying just a couple of verses….write them down.  If you are reading a bigger section, write down what verses might stand out to you in your daily reading.  You will need a journal or notebook.

O-Observation

Now that you have your verses written down or have finished your reading for the day, what did you learn or observe while you were reading and recording the verses that jumped out to you.  What was God trying to get your to see in His wonderful words?  What are the verses about?  Who was involved?  What were the characteristics of the people in the verses?  What occurred in those verse?

A-Application

Here’s where your reading will really start to sink in.  How does your reading and the observations that you found apply to your life? Our society is different from the one in the Bible, but these verses and their teaching can apply to modern times…the question is…How?  Take some time and really think about how God is trying to reach you and what you can do to fully embrace His words.

P-Prayer

Here is where you will pour your heart out to your heavenly father.  He wants to hear from you.  You have spent time in His word and majesty so…how does that make you feel?  Make this part of your study a very personal part.  You won’t need to share this with anyone so tell God how your study and His words have affected you.  He wants to know all so take time to let Him know.

Now that I have explained what SOAP is and how it works for me let me know if this is a method you would try and if not…Why?  Also, do you have a method that works for you?  Leave me a comment and tell me.  I always love hearing about how others study.

God’s Blessings,

Bethany

 

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I Lead Bible Studies

Yes, you read the title right.  I lead a bible study group through the organization Good Morning Girls  (which I think I have mentioned) and I want to extend an invitation, to you, to join me.  I would love to have you.

We are currently finishing up our study through the book of Luke, but in a couple of weeks we will be starting our Thanksgiving study.   Care to join us?  Everything is free for the studies.  The reading plan, study guide, and even the videos that are posted weekly.  All you need is a Facebook group or, if you want, you can study and post your thoughts about the study in the comment sections of my blog posts.

Please, think about joining us during this time.  I know it can be a busy time of year, but this is the time we need to make God a priority.  We NEED to spend time in His word during this season, otherwise we can become overwhelmed very quickly.

So please think about joining me during this time and taking the time to show God gratitude.

I will praise God’s name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving.

Psalm 69:30

God Bless,

Bethany