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

May 6: 2Samuel 11, 12; Psalm 51; Matthew 23

Scripture: 2Samuel (NIV) 12:24 Then David comforted his wife Bathsheba, and he went to her and made love to her. She gave birth to a son, and they named him Solomon. The LORD loved him;
25 and because the LORD loved him, he sent word through Nathan the prophet to name him Jedidiah. (NOTE: Jedidiah means “loved by the Lord.)

Observation: What an amazing thought. From a relationship that started with adultery and murder, comes this child, Solomon. And the Bible records: "The LORD loved him!"
There are many children in the world today, especially in third world countries, who are despised and ridiculed because of their parent’s sins. But "the LORD loves them!" If we can do things that "displease the LORD," surely then we can do things that please Him! Surely loving those He loves brings Him joy.

Application: Many children live in troubled circumstances that were made by the adults in their lives. Step parents may not love them. Society may look down on them. They may have only one parent, or no parents, but "the Lord" loves them! And the Lord who loves them wants to use me to minister to them. I am His hands and feet. He wants me to have His heart. He wants me to love the world the way He loves the world!

Prayer: Lord, may my hands be your hands reaching out to the children you have placed around me. Make my words your words. May I love them like you love them. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!