The purpose of devotion is to help you learn more about Jesus – who He is, what He’s done, and what He’s doing today. We are recommending the S.O.A.P. method of devotion – which requires a journal (we’ll give you one free if you visit on a Wednesday Night). S.O.A.P. stands for: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. Here is a basic daily layout to accomplish these things.
Scripture
Each day, there is an assigned scripture to read. If you’ve got one of our journals it’s on the page. If you don’t have one, check back at connect.silvercreekfellowship.org/youth for the day’s reading. Find it in your Bible and read through it a few times. Pay attention to what the scripture is saying – read it aloud if it helps you concentrate.
Observation
Observation is objective. Write a summary of the passage you just read. What is it saying? What’s going on? Who are the characters – what’s going on in their head? We’re not looking yet for how this affects your life – just a clear summary of what is happening in this passage.
Application
This is where the rubber meets the road. What does this scripture mean for your life? Are there things you need to change in order to line up with God’s purposes? Does this scripture encourage you in some way? Be sure you write down everything that comes to mind – and be specific.
Prayer
Now that you’ve taken in a part of God’s word, spend some time talking to Him. Ask for help to live the way God wants. Ask Him for help with things that you have no control over (sickness, other people’s lives, etc). Ask Him for help with things you do have control over (attitude, money, etc). And listen. If you feel God speaking something to you write it down.
May you grow closer to God as you study His word.
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