Devotion Time

Since July of this year, I have used the following method during my daily devotions.  I’ve been reading through the Bible and typically read 1-3 chapters a day.  After I read, I write a journal using the method that Pastor Wayne Cordeiro described in his message as part of the One Prayer series.  Here is the SOAP method from his church’s website:

S for Scripture

Open your Bible to the reading found under today’s date of your Bible bookmark. Take time reading and allow God to speak to you. When you are done, look for a verse that particularly spoke to you that day, and write it in your journal. 

O for Observation

What do you think God is saying to you in this scripture? Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you and reveal Jesus to you. Paraphrase and write this scripture down in your own words, in your journal.

A for Application 

Personalize what you have read, by asking yourself how it applies to your life right now. Perhaps it is instruction, encouragement, revelation of a new promise, or corrections for a particular area of your life. Write how this scripture can apply to you today.

P for Prayer 

This can be as simple as asking God to help you use this scripture, or it may be 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! Now, write it out.

I have found this method to be helpful.  As I write, I think more about what I read than in the past when I did not journal.  How do you spend your quiet time?  What works best for you?