SOAP stands for Scripture, Observation, Application and Prayer. Today’s journal comes from reading Psalm 27.

Scripture

“The one thing I ask of the Lord–the thing I seek most–is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord’s perfections and meditating in His Temple.” Psalm–27:4

Observation

The closeness of God was the ONE THING David sought. David was a busy man–a shepherd, a warrior, a king, a man on the run for his life. And yet, he had a PRIORITY of ONE THING–for he loved God!

Application

Fight for this “ONE THING” priority. Spend time with God first thing–early in the morning–or the business of the day crowds it out. Be an early riser and make sitting at God’s feet–delighting in His perfections–my ONE THING priority.

In my meditation on God, I want to utilize the scripture, fresh translations of the Word, but also music and poetry–especially the poetry found in old, time-tested hymns.

Prayer

Father, this has been and probably will be a life-long struggle–to live this ONE THING priority. Life is busy and interferes with seeking You, but I also get so easily distracted with the dumbest of things that rob me of time with You.

This year, this month, this week, this day, indeed, this hour–might I truly live out this ONE THING desire of my heart: to seek You, to know You, to delight in You, to meditate on Your perfections.

When I seek You in this way, my soul is at rest!

“My heart has heard you say, ‘Come and talk with Me.’ And my heart responds, ‘Lord, I am coming.'” (Psalm 27:8)

So, Lord, here I come!
In Christ’s name, Amen.

“Oh Lord, You’re Beautiful
Your face is all I seek
For when Your eyes are on this child
Your grace abounds to me” –Keith Green

“There is something indomitable about “one-thing” people. They know what they want and are determined to get it. Nothing can stand in their way.” –William MacDonald