2 JUN 22 Thursday SOAPS DEVO

 2 JUN 22 Thursday SOAPS DEVO

(Scripture, Observation, Apply, Pray, Share)

Reading Plan: Psalm 105:1-22; Isaiah 4:2-6; Zechariah 4:1-14; Matthew 9:1-8

S- Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin, to see the plumb line in Zerubbabel’s hand. Zechariah 4:10

O- We can get discouraged at how small or slow the process of disciple-making or church planting takes.  The size and fruitfulness are determined by the Spirit of the Lord and not by our own energy, plans, or tools.  The Lord is pleased by our faithful proclamation of truth and investment in others.  We can have joy in the little things and new beginnings too.

A- I will remind myself of the word of God when I get discouraged when things are not progressing the way that I like.  I will remember that while I labor, he gives the increase and makes things come to life and multiply.

P- Lord, thank you for your encouraging words.  I get discouraged from time to time and need both affirmation and assurance in the things you have me doing.  My courage and determination are strengthened by your wisdom.  Thank you for the new beginnings you give, amen.

S- R, Ks

1 JUN 22 Wednesday Soaps Devo

 1 JUN 22 Wednesday SOAPS DEVO

(Scripture, Observation, Apply, Pray, Share)

Reading Plan: Psalm 101; Isaiah 4:2-6; Ephesians 4:1-16; Matthew 8:28-34

S- I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar.  I hate all who deal crookedly; I will have nothing to do with them. I will reject perverse ideas and stay away from every evil.  Psalm 101:3-4

O- God is holy and he has expectations that we are to be holy too.  The psalmist is committing his life to love what God loves and hate what God hates.  Righteousness takes offense to evil and calls us to renounce it.  It also calls us to embrace the ways of God.  Starting with what the eyes see is a good place to start and the most difficult since we must intentionally stop feeding on trash visually.

A- I will commit to the practical way of not engaging in vile and vulgar media and setting up my profiles not to be exposed to such material.  I will pray for those that engage and promote perverse ideas and evil, and share the good news with them.

P- Lord, you call us to be in the world and not of it.  Help us to stand firm in our faith against vile and perverse things.  Help us to engage the lost where they are and help us not to affirm their ways, but shine in their darkness. Amen.

S- K, L, E