Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
May 02, 2023: SOAP #4898: 1Chronicles 16; Psalm 106; Matthew 19

SCRIPTURE:  Matthew (NIV) 19:13 Then little children were brought to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples rebuked those who brought them. 14 Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” 15 When he had placed his hands on them, he went on from there.

OBSERVATION:  The disciples were looking out for Jesus.  He was important and should not be interrupted with insignificant issues.  They rebuked the adults who brought children to Jesus.   Jesus did not wait until the disciples were alone with Him to correct the issue.  He immediately corrected the disciples in public. 

Children were not to be considered an interruption!  They were too important to be overlooked! 

APPLICATION:  Blest are the people who serve in church nurseries, or work in children’s ministries, or take care of orphans!  They are doing the ministry of Jesus.  They have these verses and many others to emphasize the importance of children.  They can stand in their faith praying for the needs of the children.  In prayer, they can quote the very words of Jesus regarding the importance of children.  In prayer, they can bring the “little children to Him” because “the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as them.”  

These little children carry His image.  He made them; He knows what they need! 

PRAYER:  Holy Spirit, impart the gift of faith to those ministering to children. May they first see the value of their ministry.  May they know that you are with them.  May their faith grow as they bring their needs to you and see you answering their prayers through your many resources.  Lord, especially across Africa, impart supernatural faith to those ministering to children. (1Corinthians 12:7-11) May their faith, and your response to their faith, be an example for believers around the world today.  Amen, –and every SOAP reader said, “AMEN!”      

Pastor Leon
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