S.O.A.P. Bible reading and journaling
SOAP is a method of Bible reading and journaling: Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer. It can be used with any daily Bible reading plan.
You’ll need a Bible, a journal and a pen.
S
for Scripture
Open your Bible to today’s reading (according to whatever plan you are following). 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 struck you and caught your attention in what you read? 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.
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.
How To Establish A Family Bible Time
January 12, 2022 by abbey@smalltownsoul.net
Morning or Night?
It doesn’t matter! Not one bit. I have friends that are dedicated to morning Bible times with their kids, while we personally do ours between supper and bedtime. No matter when you read, your kids are hearing, experiencing, and learning the Word of God. Want to implement it during lunch time? Go for it! Snack time? Great! Middle of the morning? Whatever works for you!
Children’s Bible or Adult Bible?
There are benefits to each, but before we discuss this, let me make this disclaimer: there’s no right or wrong here. If all you have is an adult Bible, start there. Your kids (even little ones) can learn from it. If you only own a children’s Bible, start there. You might learn something from it along with your kids. In any format, God’s Word never returns void.
Children’s Bible
Pros: Written on a child’s level. Short stories for short attention spans. Includes pictures to look at.
Cons: May water down stories or leave parts out. Does not include all Bible stories. Does not challenge kids to learn new vocabulary.
Our favorite children’s Bible for young kids are Jesus Storybook Bible and Beginner’s Gospel Story Bible. For elementary-age kids, look into the products from Kaleidoscope to transition your children into reading full books of the Bible on their level.
Adult Bible
Pros: Many stories to choose from. Includes direct commands, teachings from Jesus, and prophecies. Gives opportunity to teach children new words and concepts they may not otherwise be exposed to.
Cons: May not keep a child’s attention. Very few, if any, visuals. Can be hard to decide where to start reading.
“My Kids Won’t Sit Still”
Anytime I speak on topics like this, I hear from moms saying things like, “Well my kid would never sit still that long” and “That just won’t work for us because of our schedule.” Those are valid concerns! That’s why you have to find what works for you. Maybe your kids need to color while they listen, or use a sensory bin. My kids don’t – they sit on a blanket or next to us on the couch – but that doesn’t mean you have to do it the same way. Source: https://raisingjesuskids.com/family-bible-time/