SOAP program is as simple as this. You receive a verse of scripture via a text message on your mobile phone.
"11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. 13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart."
"22. Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. 23 They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. 24 I say to myself, “The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.” 25 The Lord is good to those whose hope is in him, to the one who seeks him; 26 it is good to wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.."
Our SOAP messages are mainly drawn from the Uniting Church of Australia Lectionary readings each week. Translation version here is usually NIV.
These weekly verses from the bible are collated and sent by a congregation member for the SOAP program – feel free to share them with others!
S stands for scripture…
you take the time to read the verse…allowing God to speak to you.
O stands for observation .
What sticks your attention as you read that verse…. what is God actually trying to say to you as an individual/? You may ask the Holy Spirit to teach you, you may paraphrase the verse writing it down in your own words in a journal or just keeping it in your heart.
A stands for Application.
The next step is asking yourself what this actually means to you and how does this verse apply to you right now. Perhaps it is encouragement, instruction, revelation or a new promise for your life or the life of someone close to you. Perhaps it gives guidance and correction in an area of your life that troubles you.
P stands for prayer…
Prayer can be as simple as asking God to help you use the scripture in your life, or it may be a greater insight into what He is already revealing to you. Remember prayer is a two way conversation and you must be sure to listen to what God is saying to you. Then perhaps you will have an opportunity to pass that simple scripture text message onto someone else.