Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
November 24, 2023: SOAP #5104: Matthew 17-19

SCRIPTURE:  Matthew (NIV) 17:6 When the disciples heard this, they fell face down to the ground, terrified. 7 But Jesus came and touched them. “Get up,” he said. “Don’t be afraid.”

OBSERVATION:  Jesus touched them AND spoke to them.  We see the ministry of touch, and the ministry of words.  Both are so important!   The Holy Spirit will flow through us in both.

The ministry of touch emphasizes PRESENCE.  There are times when that ministers more than words.  A touch can say, “I am here for you,” or “I am with you.”  It can say, “I do not know what to say, but I love you and I am here.”

The ministry of words ministers in two ways.  First is the message that the words convey, which can range from comfort to correction, from encouragement to exhortation.  Second is the manner in which the words are spoken—the tone of voice.  The tone of voice can minister tenderness or sternness, patience or persistence.

APPLICATION:  Even without consciously thinking about it, I will be using these two ministries today.  I will be greeting friends with hugs and words of friendship.  I will not know the hurt behind the smile or the pain underneath the hug.  I need to be aware when the Holy Spirit wants it to be more than just a general greeting.  I want them to sense His presence in me and to hear His words from lips.   

PRAYER:  Holy Spirit, touch through me today.  Speak through me to those needing encouragement and comfort. Impress on my thoughts words and ideas that will best minister to those to whom I am speaking.    Amen

Pastor Leon
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Note:  Please pray for Pastor Andrew Borbor in Sierra Leone.  He has been improving from the personal attack and robbery he suffered sometime back.  This past week he developed severe headaches and is back in the hospital awaiting brain surgery.  The doctors have finally been paid to do the surgery, but now they want the family to provide five units of blood before they do the surgery!  I believe this all is an attack from the evil one to rob the Kingdom of an anointed minister and to send his family into poverty.  Please join me in prayer for a miracle.  I am praying that God’s obvious involvement in Pastor Andrews recovery will strengthen his ministry and be a testimony to God’s miraculous power.   Amen