Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
April 20, 2022: SOAP #4521:  1Samuel 23; Psalm 31,54; Matthew 7

SCRIPTURE:  Matthew (NIV) 7:12 So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.

OBSERVATION: The OT law was based on a selfish basis.  It was how people related to themselves that they would understand how to relate to others.  Later Jesus says that the second greatest commandment is to love one’s neighbor as they love themselves (Mark 12:31) which again brings self as the basis. 

What a difference Jesus brought when He gave us His commandment, to love one another AS HE LOVED US!  (John 13:34) He brought love to a whole new dimension.

APPLICATION: In considering what loving like Jesus would mean for me, I do not think I can do that.  I am sure I can improve on loving those around me, but to rise to the level of loving like Jesus?  So here is my application:  if Jesus wants Leon to love like Jesus, Jesus will need to come and live His life in Leon! 

And That is just what Jesus did!  When I confessed my sins and asked Him to forgive me, I asked Him into my heart and life. He moved in and started rearranging my priorities.  And He started loving through me! 

PRAYER:  Lord, love through me.  Let my life be an expression of your love to those around me.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!   
On Facebook:  Today’s SOAP from Pastor Leon