25 JUL 22 Monday SOAPS DEVO

 25 JUL 22 Monday SOAPS DEVO

(Scripture, Observation, Apply, Pray, Share)

Reading Plan: Psalm 56, 57; Joshua 24:16-33; Romans 16:1-16; Matthew 27:24-31

S- I commend to you our sister Phoebe, who is a deacon in the church in Cenchrea. Welcome her in the Lord as one who is worthy of honor among God’s people.  Help her in whatever she needs, for she has been helpful to many, and especially to me. Romans 16:1-2

O- Paul knows the importance of remembering and encouraging his fellow Christians that he has been in contact from the beginning.  It is important that we are connected to a local church, but also have mind to the church in the world.  The network of leaders and laborers are in a symbiotic relationship in that we need each other and develop one another for the glory of God.

A- I will give thanks like Paul for my brothers and sisters in Christ across denominational lines for God has gifted each of us for his body and glory.  I will keep up with and remember all those that I have invested in over the years.  It is a reminder of the goodness of God and his work in and through me.

P- Lord, I praise you and thank you for the wonderful relationships you have given me on this great adventure of life.  Each person has made a special impact on my life and hope that I have done the same.  It is pure joy to have brothers and sisters in Christ all over the world to connect with and know that there is love for each other.  In that I thank you.  Amen.

23 JUL 22 Saturday SOAPS DEVO

 23 JUL 22 Saturday SOAPS DEVO

(Scripture, Observation, Apply, Pray, Share)

Reading Plan: Psalm 55; Joshua 23:1-16; Romans 15:25-33; Matthew 27:11-23

S- Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you.  He will not permit the godly to slip and fall.  But you, O God, will send the wicked down to the pit of destruction. Psalm 55:22-23a

O- David modeled to us well to take our troubles to the throne rather than the phone or social media.  Those who belong to the Lord have an ear to speak and One that cares more than anyone else.  When justice fails on earth, we can be sure that ultimate justice will prevail either through the cross or in hell.  Either is satisfying and permanent.

A- I will cast all my cares and burdens to my Lord, trusting that he will care for and strengthen me.  I will trust that he will handle my enemies in the best way he sees fit and I can rest in satisfaction and peace.

P- Heavenly Father, you are good and faithful through all of life’s ups and downs.  I thank you for being there for me and hearing my prayers.  I thank you for dealing with those that come against me and releasing me from anger and frustration.  Deal with them through the cross or judgment, for either will I be satisfied and you glorified.  Amen.

S- A, S, J

22 JUL 22 Friday SOAPS DEVO

 22 JUL 22 Friday SOAPS DEVO

(Scripture, Observation, Apply, Pray, Share)

Reading Plan: Psalm 40, 54; Joshua 9:22-10:15; Romans 15:14-24; Matthew 27:1-10

S- My ambition has always been to preach the Good News where the name of Christ has never been heard, rather than where a church has already been started by someone else.  Romans 15:20

O- Paul has the heart of Jesus in that he desires to seek and save the lost at any cost.  Several years ago my son and I stood atop a fort overlooking the city of Ankara.  The lostness of millions hit us in our hearts that the gospel must be proclaimed in this country where it once thrived.  We can get comfortable in a place that has a church on every corner, but there are places that have not heard the gospel once.

A- I will still seek the lost and equipped the saved wherever the Lord sends me.  I will rejoice in the passion Jesus has put in my heart to find his lost children and develop disciples.

P- Lord, it is in tears that I give thanks and ask that you make your servants fruitful in their endeavor to proclaim the gospel in the darkest places.  Thank you for the work you have done here in Maryland, those that have come to saving faith, and those that were equipped as disciple-makers.  Give them the passion and boldness to take the baton that was passed. Amen.