There’s nothing better then having the bible really come to life as you read. Following a daily reading plan is one way to help you read and discover truths that will change your life.
At Life, we encourage the use of the Life Journal Plan that will take you through the bible in a year. As well as reading scripture, it can really come to life when you’re thinking out how it applies to your life and journaling your thoughts (even if they’re only brief!)
With that in mind, we use the acrostic SOAP as we read and journal.
S: Scripture. Which passage particularly stands out? Be prayerful and expectant as you read..
O: Observation. What is happening/what are the main themes in the passage?
A: Application. How does this apply to me personally?
P: Prayer. With the above in mind, what is my prayer?
Here are journals from some of our people to help you get started ‘soaping’!
Hard times develop character
S Eph 5 v 3-4 3 Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. O This is an often quoted scripture that rings true every time I read it. I love the way The Message puts it….: “We continue to shout our praise even when we’re hemmed in with troubles, because we know how troubles can develop passionate patience in us, and how that patience in turn forges the tempered steel of virtue, keeping us alert for whatever God will do next.” Even when we’re hemmed in with troubles we shout with praise because we know these troubles serve a purpose. A Such a great thing to read, but I’ve got to be honest, sometimes a tricky thing to remember. I live a very blessed life with a fantastic wife and kids and I work at a job I love, but sometimes it’s hard. Sometimes there are days where it feels too hard even – but reading this passage reminds me to stick at it, to keep smiling and keep God in the focus, because the hard times will develop character in me. And at the end of the day, it’s my character that God wants to see grow and develop. So, next time I feel under the pump, I’ll think of this verse, take a breath, and think about the patience, character and hope that can grow out of it. P Lord, please help
