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

May 14: 1Chronicles

22-24; 1Thessalonians 3

Scripture: 1Thessalonians (NIV) 3:1 So when we could stand it no longer, we thought it best to be left by ourselves in Athens.
2 We sent Timothy, who is our brother and God’s fellow worker in spreading the gospel of Christ, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith.

Observation: To Paul, Timothy was his son in the faith, yet he wanted others to see Timothy as more than just Paul’s son, or disciple, so he spoke of him with words that indicate equality. Timothy was a brother. Timothy was a fellow-worker. Timothy was sent, not only to check on things for Paul and to bring back a report, which he did, but to strengthen and encourage these believers who had been going through some tough times.

Application: When I am speaking to my son or dear friends, I can use common names or nick-names I called them as a child. But when I am speaking to others about my son or friends I need to use terms that show my respect for them. In that way I will help others to see them the same way. I can build the esteem others will have for them.

Prayer: Lord, use my words to build up others in the eyes of those who hear me speak. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!