Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
June 26, 2023: SOAP #4953: Jonah 1-4; 2Timothy 2

SCRIPTURE:  2Timothy (NIV) 2:2And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.

OBSERVATION:  It is as true today as it was in Paul’s day.  Paul stressed the importance of faithfulness over ability.  Being reliable, being trustworthy is the priority.  There are people with great ability, but since they are not dependable, their ability is useless.  There are men who have the potential/ability to be great dads, but since they are so seldom at home, it does not help their children.  I’ve heard it said that the greatest ability is availability. 

Faithfulness is the foundation for the demonstration of one’s abilities. Ability shines best on the pedestal of faithfulness.  An employer looking for a new employee, a ministry looking for a new volunteer should always rank faithfulness above ability.

How one treats their commitments says nothing about the value of what they have committed to, but everything about them; they made the commitment.  It is their character on display.

APPLICATION:  These SOAPs today reach thousands of people.  But 13+ years ago when I first posted one on Facebook, it was read by less than 10.  God saw my faithfulness and knew I was reliable to continue His work.  He began drawing the attention of others to the SOAPs. 

The greatest faithfulness in this ministry is not my faithfulness, but God’s faithfulness.  As I am faithful to read God’s Word every day, He is faithful to speak to me through His Word!    

PRAYER:  Lord, I ask myself, “How often do I want you to speak to me?”  I must also ask myself, “How often do I read Your Word?”  Fine me faithful.  Amen

Pastor Leon
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