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

February 9: Leviticus 10-12; Acts 16

Scripture: Acts (NIV) 16:25 About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.
26 Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open and everyone’s chains came loose.

Observation: Paul and Silas had been beaten with many stripes and then placed in the custody of the jailer with instructions to guard them carefully. Taking no chances, “he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.” Their circumstances were bad, their feet were bound; but their hearts were free. It was more than a concert for prisoners. Someone more important was listening that night. Their song was heard in the courts of heaven and stirred the heart of God.

Application: Many times sorrow is expressed through music. But it was not sorrow or hurt or self-pity that was in the songs of Paul and Silas—it was praise to God! My heart has often been lifted from the prison of my circumstances by the anthem of praise.

Prayer: Lord, you are always worthy of my praise! Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!