Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
April 15, 2023: SOAP #4881: 1Samuel 17; Psalm 9; Matthew 2

SCRIPTURE:  1Samuel (NIV) 17:46 [David speaking to Goliath] This day the LORD will hand you over to me, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head. Today I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. 47 All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.”
48 As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David ran quickly towards the battle line to meet him. 49 Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell face down on the ground. 50 So David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him.

OBSERVATION:  David approached Goliath with confidence in the Lord.  It was not David’s battle.  Goliath had defied the Lord!  It was not Goliath against David; it was Goliath against God!   God was not going with David; David was going with God.    

APPLICATION:  We need to look at the challenges we face as David looked at Goliath.  The challenge is the Lord’s!   David faced Goliath with what he knew, a sling and some rocks. 

When I see the battle as mine, then I must convince people to help me.  The pressure is on me to perform as the leader.  But when I see the battle as the Lord’s, then the pressure is on HIM!   I take the needs to HIM and depend on HIM to provide.  I come to realize that I already have in my hands what I need to start. 

PRAYER:   Lord, I look to you to handle the challenges I face with children on the bus.  I know that you have given me this assignment. It is your bus and your ministry.  I am your servant.   Amen.

Pastor Leon
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