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

July 30: Isaiah 60-62; John 1

Scripture: John (NIV) 1:10 He was in the world, and though the world was made through him, the world did not recognize him. 11 He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12 Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.

Observation: Jesus created the world, yet when he came as a little baby, born of a virgin, announced by angels, in the town prophesied by the prophet Micah, the world did not recognize Him. Even the Jewish people who had been given all the prophecies about Jesus did not recognize Him. The religious leaders who probably best knew the Old Testament scriptures did not receive him, but led the mob in having Jesus put to death.

Application: As I read the above verses, it came to me that there have been times my eyes were so fastened on my circumstances that I did not recognize the presence of Jesus. He had come to me; and I claim to be his own, but I did not recognize His presence! I missed the opportunity to exercise my faith. I want to be quick to recognize Jesus and “receive” Him as the Lord of my circumstances.

Prayer: Lord, May I always keep myself keenly aware of your presence. May your presence be the first thought in my mind when I face trouble. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!