I mentioned in my last post that I am excited to be using a simple method for studying the Scripture called S.O.A.P.  Here is an example of how it has worked for me.

S. – Writing out the Scripture
       Isaiah 55:10-11

As the rain and the snow come down from heaven,
and do not return to it without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth:  It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.

O. – Writing observations from the Scripture

1. God sends water (rain and snow) to earth.
2. The water makes everything grow.
3. The water helps to yield (produce) seed for the sower (to plant another crop in the future) and bread for the eater (to sustain and nourish now).
4. Thinking of planting seeds – It takes a long time for a seed to sprout, grow, flourish, and produce new grain.
5. God says His Word is like water that makes everything grow.  It nourishes the believer now and produces spiritual maturity over time.  Like the seed for the sower, He in turn gives them the ability to share the gospel (His Word) with others.
         

A. – Application  (What do I do with what God has shown me?)

Helping our children to memorize Scripture, training them in His Ways through the study of His Word, and praying the Scriptures for them is not done in vain. We need to be more faithful in these areas.  God’s Word provides nourishment for them – to help them grow.  It takes time and patience for the seed to sprout.  We don’t see the work and growth that takes place underground.  So don’t grow weary nor give up! We have the promise that His Word will not return empty.  It accomplishes what he desires.

P. – Prayer
Dear Jesus, I pray that, as the children grow, You will use the Scriptures they are hiding in their hearts, at their tender ages, to guide and direct their paths and that they would remember and hear Your Words speaking to them- providing them protection and comfort.  Help us to be diligent in sharing the gospel and Your Words with the children.  Remind us and put a burden on our hearts to pray the Scriptures and use Your very Words to lift our children up to you regularly.  I pray that, as You help us to be faithful in training our children, You will use Your Word and the power of Your Holy Spirit to bring each of them to a saving faith in Your Son.

My son, keep your father’s commands
   and do not forsake your mother’s teaching.
Bind them upon your heart forever;
   fasten them around your neck.
When you walk, they will guide you;
   when you sleep, they will watch over you;
   when you awake, they will speak to you.
Proverbs 6:20-22

I pray that we may one day see each of our children walking in the Truth…