Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer

December 26: Psalm 117; 119:81-176; 2John; 3John

Scripture: 2John 12 I have much to write to you, but I do not want to use paper and ink. Instead, I hope to visit you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete.

Observation: So much of communication is lacking when limited to paper and ink. John would much rather talk face to face with his readers where he could emphasize the urgency of his message with his tone of voice and emphasize his love with a hug. It would be good to be able to ask and answer questions. However he did not let the limitations keep him from writing a letter. Today we recognize that the Holy Spirit was inspiring him to write, not just for their benefit, but also for ours today. The great benefit of paper and ink is that it lasts; it can be re-read; it can be passed along for others to read.

Application: Today email, Facebook and Twitter have taken the place today of paper and ink. They have the same limitations and also the necessity of brevity. We greatly need the Holy Spirit to aid our communication for our benefit and God’s glory.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, help me use the limited tools of communication available to me today to bless others and bring glory to God. And thank you that communication with you is never limited! Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!