I’ve always been a fan of journaling. Spiritual journaling is something I’m starting to get into more in order to have a richer understanding of the Bible and document what I’m learning better. This is also a great practice to implement into your Self Care Plan. One spiritual journaling method that I’ve come across recently is called the S.O.A.P method. When Jonathan and I planned on getting married, we started going to a Bible study at his church and it was there they taught us this method that I was surprised to find I had never heard of or learned before.
How It Works:
‘S’ = Scripture
Pick a passage to read out of and once you’re finished, write the scripture down and/or the reference you’re choosing to focus on. Pick one that stood out to you.
‘O’ = Observation
Share what you observed from the text. In your own words, what is it communicating to the reader?
‘A’ = Application
Share how someone in general or specifically yourself could take what is observed in this verse and apply to your life.
‘P’ = Prayer
Document a prayer referencing the application of this text to your life.
I have a Praise journal that lists a topic and verses supporting that topic to journal a praise about. This one focuses on God being our Provider. The text is Psalm 145.
For Example:
Scripture
Psalm 145:15-19
The eyes of all look to you,
and you give them their food at the proper time.
16 You open your hand
and satisfy the desires of every living thing.
17 The Lord is righteous in all his ways
and faithful in all he does.
18 The Lord is near to all who call on him,
to all who call on him in truth.
19 He fulfills the desires of those who fear him;
he hears their cry and saves them.
Observation
The Lord provides for every living creature on the earth. He not only takes care of our needs as well, but longs to satisfy our desires so long as we trust that He wants to and will.
Application
I need to make more of a conscious effort to trust Him enough to ask for not only my needs, but also the desires of my heart. Additionally, thanking Him for not only when He answers my prayers and meets my needs and desires, but for His goodness and blessings in the day to day things that I haven’t even thought to ask for.
Prayer
Lord, you are so good, so loving, so giving. You are waiting and ready to hear our cries and provide for us. I want to cry out to you and have you hear the depths of my heart. You see my longings and short comings. You know when I’m short on bills or when I’m overwhelmed with uncertainty when an emergency arises and taps into our funds. You know when my spirit is burdened and broken by unkind words and emotional baggage. You know when I really want to treat myself or when I long for the support of a friend. You know, Father. Remind me of your love and desire to provide for me. Remind me to come to you first when I feel discontent so I can find peace in the storm. Thank you, Lord.
I hope you had a wonderful time with family and a very blessed Thanksgiving. My love to you as you journey on with your day. I pray you find peace as well.
