Before the Rush: Still Moments with the Savior

Personal devotions are the groundwork for developing an intimate relationship with God. Starting with a morning routine sets the mind on a path of peaceful expectation that God is with you. One template for devotions is called SOAP.

SOAP

S – Scripture: Write out the verse or passage.

O – Observation: What is happening in the verse? Who is speaking? What's the main idea?

A – Application: How does this apply to my life right now?

P – Prayer: Respond to God about what you’ve just learned.

SOAP Journaling revolutionized my daily devotions.

How? I was not just reading a passage of Scripture or checking off a list of spiritual disciplines. I am actually meeting with God! He is speaking to me. Jesus is waiting for me to meet with Him. The Holy Spirit is reminding me and bringing words alive! I am energized instead of robotically reading and listening for specific application. No more empty ritual to perform.

I am meeting with my Heavenly Father through His Son Jesus by means of His Holy Spirit in me.

Not only is this rejuvenating to realize that I am meeting with an actual Person, but I am aware that He is real and wants to be with me.

I am not alone. Our relationship becomes stronger. No longer is my "quiet time" a task. No longer are "devotions" a ritualistic discipline. Instead, I am energized to see and hear what He says!

NOTE: During your time of SOAPing, your mind may recall various items. Keep your agenda or a blank list beside your SOAP journal.

That could include a “To Do” list, ideas for writing, people to contact, groceries to get. Keep those on a separate list or have your agenda nearby. That distraction becomes a blessing as God the Holy Spirit reminds you of priorities. Ask God to show you what 3 main things to accomplish for that day. Then you are not overwhelmed to accomplish unrealistic expectations of yourself and others.

Find out more here with details, examples, and listen to the creator of the SOAP method for quiet time devotions and how that changed and influenced his life.

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GO MICROGreg Ogden

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GDI is not a program or a one-time class—but a lifestyle change for accelerated spiritual growth in a relational environment, for ordinary people everywhere since God’s call is on all of us, not only leaders and pastors.

GO MICROGreg Ogden