SOAP May 31, 2014

Scripture: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4 ESV)

Observation: Whatever we receive from God, He purposes it for us to in turn to share with others.

Application: Our gifts are not for us to take pleasure in, rather they are for sharing with the whole body of Christ.

Prayer: Daddy, thank you for Your comfort and for all things that You have given us.  I pray that we would use all things You have given us to serve on another.  Amen.

SOAP May 30, 2014

Scripture: Let all that you do be done in love. (1 Corinthians 16:14 ESV)

Observation: Love should be the driving and compelling force behind our actions.

Application: We love because Christ first loved us and Love is the driving force in all that we do, therefore we must seek to increase our Love.  He is the author of love, and spending time with Him makes us more like Him.  Want more Love, spend more time with Him.

Prayer: Daddy, help me to love in places I don't today...that's a short statement and a tall order...but You are the God of all possibilities.  Amen.

SOAP May 29, 2014

Scripture: Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:58 ESV)

Observation: When our lives are spent being consumed by His work, our labor is not in vain.

Application: Be encouraged, be steadfast, labor for His kingdom.

Prayer: Daddy, thank You for encouraging words, for love, grace, and mercy.  Amen.

SOAP May 28, 2014

Sorry for being absent the last 2 days.  Came down with some kind of cold and was really not feeling well.  It's good to be back.

Scripture:For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints, (1 Corinthians 14:33 ESV)

Observation: Christianity is not difficult to understand, though some make it difficult.

Application: Seek to build up others in the church and do not seek to build up yourself.  This is a key component in spiritual growth and maturity.

Prayer: Daddy, May Your Holy Sprit pour out amongst Your people and may You alone be glorified.  Amen.

SOAP May 25, 2014

Scripture: Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away. (1 Corinthians 13:8 ESV)

Observation: Love never ends.

Application: We can only understand love from the human perspective.  How much greater is His perfect love...it has no end.

Prayer:  Daddy, thank You for Your never ending love.  Amen.

SOAP May 24, 2014

Scripture: If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together. (1 Corinthians 12:26 ESV)

Observation: As the body of Christ, we are to be united.

Application: Eliminate apathy.

Prayer: Daddy, soften hearts, tear down pride, and produce unity in Your church.  Amen.

SOAP May 23, 2014

Scripture: Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. (1 Corinthians 11:28 ESV)

Observation: The Lord's supper demands that we be introspective and honest with ourselves before The Lord.

Application: Reflection, Remembrance, & Repentance could/should all be a part of participating in the Lord's supper.

Prayer: Daddy, I pray that You would grant us the ability to see the things so messed up in our lives that we seem to be blind to...and that You would give us the strength to change them and that You would be glorified.  Amen.

SOAP May 22, 2014

Scripture: Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved. (1 Corinthians 10:32, 33 ESV)

Observation: Thinking about others first is key to understanding the Gospel message.

Application: We are living sacrifices for the sake of Christ.  Where He says "go", go.  What He says "do", do.  Ask no questions, have faith, and obey...it's not easy, but we can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens us.  

Prayer: Daddy, teach my heart to put others first and to seek and find opportunities to share the Gospel.  Amen.

SOAP May 21, 2014

Scripture: Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (1 Corinthians 9:24-27 ESV)

Observation: We are all striving towards something...it is either Eternal (God) or perishable (of this world).

Application: strengthen the body through discipline and obedience.  Practicing control over the physical body strengthens our spiritual selves.  

Prayer: Daddy, grant me discipline and understanding.  Teach my heart and let what I learn from You be spoken to others so that they may know who You are, and all that you are.  Amen!

SOAP May 20, 2014

Scripture:  Therefore, as to the eating of food offered to idols, we know that “an idol has no real existence,” and that “there is no God but one.” For although there may be so-called gods in heaven or on earth—as indeed there are many “gods” and many “lords”— yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist. (1 Corinthians 8:4-6 ESV)

Observation: This is the perspective that we must constantly remember in a lost world.

Application: When we speak to others regarding Jesus and the gospel, we must remember that they may have different beliefs.  This does not change the gospel or it's validity and instead increases the urgency of telling it.  We speak, God does the rest!

Prayer: Daddy, let my actions not be a stumbling block for others and if I am am, make it known to me, so I can change.  Not my my own power, but through the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

SOAP May 19, 2014

Scripture: Each one should remain in the condition in which he was called. (1 Corinthians 7:20 ESV)

Observation: God uses us in our found state, right where He found us.

Application: There is ministry to be done right where you are.  Following Jesus doesn't have to mean changing professions, becoming a pastor, or a missionary.  Seek The Lord and He will guide your steps right where you are and He will make it clear where He wants you to follow Him.

Prayer: Daddy, let me follow You closely and avoid tripping amongst the brambles and thorns.  Amen.

SOAP May 18, 2014

Scripture: To have lawsuits at all with one another is already a defeat for you. Why not rather suffer wrong? Why not rather be defrauded? (1 Corinthians 6:7 ESV)

Observation: The answer to the question Paul,is asking is "Pride" and "Arrogance".

Application: It is better to be defrauded or receive wrong doings than to take matters outside of the body of Christ.  

Prayer: Daddy, I pray for Your Church, that You would give us kind, gentle hearts that are not self seeking.  Let Your Church be of one will...Yours.  Amen.

SOAP May 17, 2014

Scripture: Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? (1 Corinthians 5:6 ESV)

Observation: I feel like I'm beating a dead horse this week, but the message remains....our only boast is in Christ alone.

Application: rather than accept glory for ourselves, instead point to God who enabled you, gifted you, and all that He has done for you.

Prayer: Leaven me with Your leaven o Lord, and keep far from my heart the desires of this world.  Amen!

SOAP May 16, 2014

Scripture: We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You are held in honor, but we in disrepute. To the present hour we hunger and thirst, we are poorly dressed and buffeted and homeless, and we labor, working with our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure; when slandered, we entreat. We have become, and are still, like the scum of the world, the refuse of all things. (1 Corinthians 4:10-13 ESV)

Observation: What a convicting passage where Paul is speaking to the church at Corinth.  The church had issues going on with arrogance, pride, showing off wealth, etc. very focused on worldly things.  They had wisdom about Christ, they were strong, held in honor...in other words, they were the upstanding everyday people who sprinkled a little Jesus on top...they didn't want to risk too much, offend too many, etc.  Paul is admonishing them to forsake it all and follow the example of the Apostles.  The central theme is that Christ alone is our boast, our joy, our portion.  Our lives to the world looks like scum!  There is no comfortable part about being a Christ follower, but He is our great comforter.

Application: Stop being so comfortable!  Take HUGE risks for Jesus.  Don't just step out of the comfort zone, LEAP! 

Prayer: Daddy, I am so convicted by this passage.  Turn that conviction into action.  Lead me, guide me, make my paths straight.  Amen.

SOAP May 15, 2014

Scripture: For the wisdom of this world is folly with God. For it is written, “He catches the wise in their craftiness,” and again, “The Lord knows the thoughts of the wise, that they are futile.” So let no one boast in men. For all things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future—all are yours, and you are Christ’s, and Christ is God’s. (1 Corinthians 3:19-23 ESV)

Observation: Apart from God, there is no wisdom, only folly.  Many will take actions in an effort to draw attention to themselves or divert attention away from themselves to better their position, avoid consequences, or obtain some other benefit that is self serving.  There is nothing that men can do that is of any value, or worth boasting.  Our only boast is Christ, everything else is futile.

Application: An attitude and a heart that seeks vengeance, revenge, entitlement, etc. does not line up with scripture.  When we behave in this manor, it is sin, for we are putting our pride ahead of Christ.    We are owed nothing, everything we have, He gave to us and apart from Christ we are nothing.  Forgive, Love (because He first loved us), rinse and repeat.  We are to be known as His by our LOVE.  If You are holding onto something, it's time to forgive, Love, and move on...and with Jesus, that is possible.

Prayer: Daddy, I come before You tonight and ask You to tear down strongholds, to humble the proud, to cast vengeance, malice, hatred, etc. far from Your people.  Break hearts tonight over pride and arrogance.  Teach us to Love as You have and do love us.  May our only boast be in You.  You know my heart God, and my thoughts, thank You for always being there, listening, loving, and answering.  Amen.

SOAP May 14, 2014

Scripture:  Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. (1 Corinthians 2:12 ESV)

Observation: understanding is found in Christ, not in the world.

Application: test the spirits to ensure they are of God, lest You fall prey to false doctrine or teachings.

Prayer: Daddy, give us wisdom on how to act in the times that You want us to make an impact or decision.  Amen,

SOAP May 13, 2014

Scripture: For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men. (1 Corinthians 1:25 ESV)

Observation: even at His worst,God is greater  than us at our best.

Application: Strive to be a reflection of God..no matter the circumstances. 

 Operate in integrity, regardless of the situation.

Prayer  : Daddy, help me be the dad and husband that You want me to be. Amen.

SOAP May 12, 2014

Scripture: I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive. (Romans 16:17, 18 ESV)

Observation:  There is but one gospel, salvation through faith in Christ by faith.  There is no promise of prosperity for accepting Christ, as a matter of fact, it is more often equated with suffering.

Application: Test the teachings you hear against scripture.  Do not blindly follow a smooth talking deceiver or be caught up in the lies that seek to gratify the flesh while compromising the spirit.  Stand firmly in the truth, exercising faith, justice, mercy, patience, kindness, self control, and above all loving one another.  Where these things are absent, there you will find a wolf in sheeps clothes.

Prayer:  Daddy, give Your church discernment, teach them to know and follow Your voice alone.  Amen.

SOAP May 11, 2014

Scripture: May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, (Romans 15:5 ESV)

Observation: Our culture today treats "religion" as something that divides people.  

Application: We are the Body of Christ and we are called to love and serve one another.  Avoid gossip, slander, etc. and do not let the sun go down on your anger.  Love one another as Christ loved the church.  When this is put into action,  instead of people thinking of "Christians" as rule following, judgemental, fanatics, they will be viewed as loving, committed, passionate people who love others more than themselves, their time, their money, etc.  it's not "religiion". It's a relationship with God.

Prayer: Daddy, help me avoid gossip, slander, and anger.  Let me seek first Your kingdom, Your will, and make those things my desire.   Amen!

SOAP May, 10, 2014

Scripture :Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. (Romans 14:13 ESV)

Observation: Think about others and what may hinder them, then avoid those things around them.  This is an act of love.

Application: know what stumbling blocks others have as well as your own. Avoid these at all costs.

Prayer: Daddy, help me to not pass judgement on others.  Amen!  

SOAP May 9, 2010

Scripture: Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. (Romans 13:10 ESV)

Observation: Loving others should be in our DNA as believers.   If we struggle with this, we ought check our heart and be certain that we have accepted the author of love, Christ Jesus!

Application: Look not to judge or condemn others, rather look to save others from a building on fire, throw a lifeline to those drowning, etc.  Share the gospel with conviction, tell our story, and let the Holy Spirit take it from there.  We must demonstrate a true love for people, and this is only possible with  God.

Prayer: Daddy, I have had the honor of being Your mouthpiece and the disgrace of being a stammering fool.  Let me seek not the approval of men and rather be obedient to Your commandment to love my neighbor.  Give me that kind of heart Lord!  Amen.

SOAP May 8, 2014

Scripture:  Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:21 ESV)

Observation: We are called to do good, and in doing good, we overcome evil.

Application: To me, this is amongst the most difficult things to accomplish, especially when angry or frustrated (like driving sometimes).  I am learning that laughter and a kind word do much better than an angry word and a look of a scorn.  This serves not only the other party involved (whom I have zero control over, but may still be able to be influenced by me) but also serves The Lord by overcoming evil with good.  These days, I am trying (with God's help) to be angered and frustrated less and instead put myself in the shoes of the other person.  This keeps me from being angered with the person and often leads me to pray for them.  One day soon, I think it will lead to a conversation and that will be another opportunity to share the good news of Christ.

Prayer:  Daddy, teach me to overcome evil with good, to turn anger into laughter and scorn into kindness.  Without You, I can do none of these things, but through You All things are possible!  Amen.

SOAP May 7, 2014

Scripture: For God has consigned all to disobedience, that he may have mercy on all. (Romans 11:32 ESV)

Observation:  Without disobedience, there is no need for mercy.

Application:  Mercy is not earned, but given.  Let us be mindful of the measure of mercy that we have received.

Prayer:  Daddy, in the midst of life, it is easy to understate and underappreciate Your mercies.  Let me realize the fullness of Your mercy and give You glory for it.  Amen.

SOAP May 6, 2014

Scripture: Then Isaiah is so bold as to say, “I have been found by those who did not seek me; I have shown myself to those who did not ask for me.” (Romans 10:20 ESV)

Observation: Imagine how insulting this was to the Jewish people at the time Paul was preaching!

Application: God wants to be glorified, He reveals Himself to those who will listen and bring Him glory.

Prayer: Daddy, open my ears that I may hear, open my eyes that I may see, and make straight my paths so that I may go and do Your work and that You alone would be glorified.  Amen.

SOAP May 5, 2014

Scripture: For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” (Romans 9:15 ESV)

Observation: God need not give reason for anything, He alone is God.

Application: Many times as a parent, I find myself stating the answer "because" as if it were a complete answer.  Putting that feeling into perspective, who are we to question God on anything?  Who are we that He should even be mindful of us?

Prayer: Daddy, You alone are God and in You only will I trust.  You are good and Your kingdom will have no end.  Let all questions simply be answered by saying "trust in The Lord our God."  Amen.

SOAP May 4, 2014

Scripture: For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:38, 39 ESV)

Observation: Today I saw many posts saying "May the 4th be with you".  This is a play on words referencing "May the force be with you" from "Star wars".  "The force", in the films, is an unseen energy that exists everywhere, binding all things together.  This has always reminded me of tonight's passage out of Romans 8.  God's love for us in Christ is the true "force" that binds all things together.  Just as in the films, there are sides to be on, you can chose to accept Christ, or reject Him.  Rejecting Christ is the equivalent to choosing the "dark side".  This analogy goes quite deep...

Application: God's love is inescapable through Christ.  He stands at the door and knocks, and when we open the door, from that moment forward, there is nothing that can separate us from His love...live like one who is loved, cherished, valued, for He gave it ALL.

Prayer: Daddy, You are the author of love.  Continue to teach me to love others more deeply, to give me Your heart for the lost, and to show me how to turn love into action.  Amen. 

SOAP May 3, 2014

Scripture: So I find it to be a law that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand. (Romans 7:21 ESV)

Observation: we are always just a decision or 2 away from good or evil.  

Application: Focus on filtering ALL decisions based on God's word, vs. my human instincts.

Prayer: Daddy, make Your Word a permanent filter in my mind, guard my heart and thoughts, bring all thoughts into captivity and make them obedient to Your will.  Amen.

SOAP May 2, 2014

Scripture: Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness? (Romans 6:16 ESV)

Observation: Whatever we seek to serve is what becomes our master.  It could be pleasing people, work, sin, or hopefully God.

Application: We have the choice to choose who are master is.  Gut check, is your master God?

Prayer: Daddy, let my focus on Christ increase, thereby making everything else decrease.  Guard my heart and let me be wise about my choices.  Amen.

SOAP May 1, 2014

Scripture: For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will scarcely die for a righteous person—though perhaps for a good person one would dare even to die— but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (Romans 5:6-8 ESV)

Observation: righteousness is of little value to the world, yet though we we were still sinners Christ died for us.

Application: seek not to do good by those who are already good, seek instead to do good to those who are not expecting it.  This shares the message of the gospel and provides a wonderful opportunity to talk with them about how Jesus died for their sins 2 thousand years ago, and that He knew that you would be talking with them that day.  Let us not be silent!

Prayer:  Daddy, give me boldness, teach me to respond with love instead of anger, and compassion instead of frustration.  Help me be more like You.  Amen.