Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
November 22, 2022: SOAP #4737: Matthew 11-13

SCRIPTURE:  Matthew (NIV) 11:25 At that time Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. 26 Yes, Father, for this was your good pleasure.

OBSERVATION:  This verse interests me because it gives me a window through which I can see the heart of God.  It does not tell me how big God is, or how strong God is, or how wise God is.  It does not tell me that God is an omnipresent, eternal Spirit.  It tells me what pleasures God. 

This verse reveals the nature of His heart.  Here is something that motivates Him!   He loves to make the complicated things that confound the intelligent so simple that even children can grasp them.  Just like an earthly parent, or a teacher, God loves to see a child’s eyes light up with the joy of discovery.  It brings God pleasure to see His child come alive with new and personal revelation. 

The “wise and learned” approach the truth of the scriptures intellectually.  They use their reasoning powers to gain understanding.  But the “little children” have not yet developed their mental abilities; God just unwraps it and “reveals” it to them.  Why does God do this?  It is His “good pleasure!” 

APPLICATION: When I read the scriptures and come across a hidden gem of truth, the Holy Spirit sparks my attention and my curiosity.  As I meditate on the flower bud, the pedals begin to open and soon I am looking at a beautiful flower.  Many SOAPs come out of that spark. 

Consider what I would miss if I did not take time to read God’s Word!!!  …if I did not take time to meditate on the “sparks!!!”   …if I did not allow the Holy Spirit to apply the truth to my life!!!

PRAYER:   Heavenly Father, thank you for making my time in your Word profitable to me and through the SOAPs to others.  May you be blest!  Amen

Pastor Leon
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