Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
September 29, 2023: SOAP #5048: Zechariah 4-6; Luke 12

SCRIPTURE:  Luke (NIV) 12:11 “When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say, 12 for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say.”

OBSERVATION:  Jesus was speaking to his disciples. He had some bad news: they would be brought before religious and civil leaders to answer for preaching about Jesus. It would be an experience that could cause them to worry. They might try to figure out their defense ahead of time.

Jesus also had some good news.  They would not need to worry about how to defend themselves.  Someone would be present and would teach them what to say: The Holy Spirit!  He would reveal truth to them in the moment it was needed!

First, here is a promise of God’s awareness. He knows what is happening to His children. Second, it is also a promise of God’s presence! He is close enough to be heard. And third it is a promise of His wisdom being available to those He loves! The Holy Spirit will teach them at that moment what to do.

APPLICATION:  There is bad news for me: I will experience trials and troubles. There is also good news: I can count on the presence of the Holy Spirit. I can trust His directions. Success depends on understanding what the Holy Spirit is saying…and following His directions.

My plan: First, I need to live panic-free. My circumstances may not make sense to me, but they are clear to God! Second, I need to live listening. I need to keep my ears open to His voice. Third, I need to live expecting. I can expect the great promise keeper to keep this promise also. I expect He will show me what to do. He may not show me ahead of time, but He will show me in time!

PRAYER:  Holy Spirit, I trust you to fulfill this word in my life every day.  Amen

Pastor Leon
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