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

January 2: Genesis 3-5; Luke 2

Scripture: Luke (NIV) 2:15 When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” 16 So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. 17 When they had seen him, they spread the word… 18 and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. 20 The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen..

Observation: People who have personally seen the things in question become the best witnesses. I have seen advertising money for new products spent to give free samples to people who hopefully will use the product and tell others. Their testimony is valuable.
-I enjoy walking through the areas at the state fair where new products are demonstrated. They want me to see how it works.
-God made sure there were people who SAW the angels and the baby. The shepherds were faithful to report what they saw.

Application: God wants people to see my life also. God wants people to witness the trouble I experience and how He works through it for His glory. Many times the testimony of others who have witnessed how God has worked in my life is better than my personal testimony.

Prayer: Lord, may your work in my life be visible to others. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!