The SOAP Journal

No, this isn’t about taking inventory of what kind of soap you use or which one you like best. Although, just for the record, I like the Wild Honeysuckle hand soap with cleansing beads from Bath and Body Works. It contains vitamins B5 and E, the cleansing beads feel tingly on the skin, and it smells nice!

Wow did the testosterone levels just drop a few noches?

Anyway, if you’re anything like me, making time to study the Bible can be challenging so finding creative ways to stay on track and stay focused is always helpful.

Here’s where SOAP journaling can help. It’s a creative way for you to begin exploring the Bible again and really get in tune with what Jesus wants to say to you. Leah Jordache, a good friend of mine, told me about it and has successfully used it in her own discipleship mentoring. Here’s how it works:

The letters in SOAP stand for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer.

S Begin with writing a text that you felt really spoke to you from a passage you read for the day. Write it out word for word. If you have a year study Bible follow the readings as scheduled and pick a text from there.

O Write down what you think Jesus is saying to you through the text. Use your own words and think about how He is being revealed here. Describe any images, actions, feelings, or thoughts that come to mind.

A Think of the areas in your life where you see this text making a real difference. It could be in the workplace, with friends, family, in an important relationship, in finances, or perhaps in personal character. Write down how you think what you’ve reflected on can apply to your personal experience.

P Write a simple prayer asking Jesus to help you apply what you’ve learned. Think of it as asking someone for advice and for ideas on how to make things happen. Make an effort to really listen and meditate during this time.

Using a page from your journal set it up exactly as shown above, with your own content of course, and let the discovery begin!

Even if you’re not into journaling making a commitment to do this even for a while can help you develop spiritual insight and strengthen your relationship with Jesus. Hey, I don’t necessarily like to exercise but when I do I know it makes a difference.

For more on the idea of SOAP journaling go to: http://pewpoint.com/soap/