We believe part of pursuing God is spending significant time in his word. The SOAP process is designed to give structure to your study. Open up to the suggested passage for this month and then spend equal time on each part of the SOAP process. It is best to have a pen and journal so you can keep a record of your time but it is not mandatory.
HOW TO S.O.A.P.
Scripture… Observation… Application… Prayer
S
Open your Bible to your reading for the day. Take time reading and allow God to speak to you. When you are done, look for a verse that particularly spoke to you and write it in your journal.
O
What do you think the scripture you read meant to the people it was written to in their context? What do you think the Lord is saying to you through this passage?
A
Personalize what you have read, by asking yourself how it applies to your life right now. Perhaps it is instruction, encouragement, a new promise, or corrections for a particular area of your life. Write how this scripture can apply to you today.
P
This can be as simple as asking God to help you use this scripture or even a prayer for 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!
Suggested Reading Schedule
January – Genesis
February – Psalms
March – Romans & 1 Corinthians
April – Proverbs
May – 2 Corinthians through Ephesians
June – Acts
July – Colossians through Philemon
August – Luke & Ecclesiastes
September – Isaiah
October – Isaiah
November – Hebrews through 1 John
December – Nehemiah & Mark
FASTING
The goal of fasting is to draw nearer to God. Biblical fasting always has to do with eliminating distractions for a spiritual purpose; it hits the reset button of our soul and renews us from the inside out. It also enables us to celebrate the goodness and mercy of God and prepares our hearts for all the good things God desires to bring into our lives. Remember, your personal fast should present a level of challenge, but it is very important to know your body, your options, and, most importantly, to seek God in prayer and follow what the Holy Spirit leads you to do.
Complete Fast
In this type of fast, you drink only liquids, typically water with light juices as an option.
Selective Fast
This type of fast involves removing certain elements from your diet. Like removing alcohol, caffeine, or sugar.
Partial Fast
This fast is sometimes called the “Jewish Fast” and involves abstaining from eating any type of food from sun up to sundown.
Soul Fast
This fast is a great option if you do not have much experience fasting food; Fasting things like social media or television.