The S.O.A.P. Journaling Method

2 Timothy 3:16-20 (New Living Translation)
16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

As we read God's words, we begin to see how God responds to things. Doing daily devotions re-patterns the way we think and transforms the spirit of the mind. Then when we face similar situations as Jesus did, we begin to respond in the same way.

Journaling is an excellent way to both record and process what God has spoken to us. It's also a useful tool to use at a later time, to reflect on and review some of the 'gems' that you have received. Without writing them down, you may forget those blessings and some very important lessons! And while journaling is a very personal time with the Lord, you may want to share some of your daily journaling with your small group or mentors. Through discussion, you may be able to look deeper into what God is speaking to you, gain new insight and even encourage others.

S for 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 for 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 for 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 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.

Here are some helpful tips from Pastor Trina:

Step 1: PRAY Quite your mind and pray for the Holy Spirit to teach you and reveal Jesus to you. Find the Bible reading corresponding to the date.

Step 2: READ Read the passage for the day. As you are reading, take note of anything the Lord impresses on you as a personal word to be applied. When you read with an open heart, the Lord will give you words of encouragement, direction and correction. (2 Tim. 3:16)

Step 3: WRITE When God has revealed a special lesson of life to you, turn to a fresh page in your journal to record what God has just shown you.

Enter the date:

   S Write out the Scripture passage
   O Write what you observe in the scripture in regards to encouragement, direction, correction, etc. It can also be your
       observation of what is going on in the context of that passage of Scripture.
   A Write what you believe God is speaking to your heart and how you can directly apply the lesson to your life. Here 
       are a few questions that you can ask yourself to help with the application.

              Is there an example for me to follow?
              Is there a sin to avoid?
              Is there a promise to claim?
              Is there a prayer to repeat?
              Is there a command to obey?
              How is God showing me that He loves me?

   P Record a 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.