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

August 10: Jeremiah 5-6; John 12

Scripture: John (NIV) 12: [Jesus speaking] 49 “I did not speak on my own. The Father who sent me commanded me what to say. He also told me how to say it.
50 I know that his command leads to eternal life. So everything I say is just what the Father has told me to say.”

Observation: Jesus was sent into the world to represent the Father. In these verses we see that Jesus was not only careful about at WHAT said, but also about HOW he said it. I have been taught that there are three parts to communication. First, there are the words we say. Second is our tone of voice. And third is our body language. Tone of voice and body language actually communicate more of a message than the words we use.

When someone in an argument is accused of saying something they often respond, “…but I said…” and they repeat it word for word. In my mind I say, you should to listen to what the other person said they heard. In listening to your tone of voice and in watching your face and hands, they got a message. It may not be the message you wanted to send, but they got it.

Application: Like Jesus, I need to communicate the Father’s message carefully. I must understand what he wants me to say, and then say it in a way that communicates his message clearly.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, I need you to help me to fully communicate the love God has for those nearby and the holiness he desires. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!