Hey guys. I wanted to pass along some learning in my own life lately. I’m sure you hear a lot about journaling. But how do you do it? How do you journal…and why? Recently Wayne Cordeiro of New Hope Christian Church in Hawaii taught me this simple way of journaling to help me grow and push the boundaries of my faith. I’m sure it will help you grow too. Just remember the acronym SOAP. Enjoy growing in the Word!

As we read God's words, we begin to see how God responds to things. Doing daily devotions re-patterns the way we think and transforms the spirit of the mind. Then when we face similar situations as Jesus did, we begin to respond in the same way.

Journaling is an excellent way to both record and process what God has spoken to us. It's also a useful tool to use at a later time, to reflect on and review some of the 'gems' that you have received. Without writing them down, you may forget those blessings and some very important lessons! And while journaling is a very personal time with the Lord, you may want to share some of your daily journaling with your small group, mentors and friends. Through discussion, you may be able to look deeper into what God is speaking to you, gain new insight and even encourage others.

S - for Scripture
Simply open your Bible and begin reading. If you don’t already have a plan for Bible reading, I recommend you start in the Gospel of Mark. Take time reading and allow God to speak to you. When you are done, look for a verse that particularly spoke to you that day, and write it in your journal.

O - for Observation
What do you think God is saying to you in this scripture? Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you and reveal Jesus to you. Paraphrase and write this scripture down in your own words, in your journal.

A - for Application
Personalize what you have read, by asking yourself how it applies to your life right now. Perhaps it is instruction, encouragement, revelation of a new promise, or corrections for a particular area of your life. Write how this scripture can apply to you today.

P - for Prayer
This can be as simple as asking God to help you use this scripture, or it may be a greater insight on what He may be revealing to you. Remember, prayer is a two way conversation, so be sure to listen to what God has to say! Now, write it out.

Needed equipment: A Bible (if you don’t have one, email me. I’ll help you with this. You also need some kind of notebook (I like the small spiral bound notebooks) and a pen. That’s it. Now get started.

I would love to hear from you and how this is changing your life.