SOAP stands for Scripture, Observation, Application and Prayer. Today’s journal comes from reading 1 Peter 1.

Scripture

“Simon Peter, a bond-servant and apostle of Jesus Christ.” –1 Peter 1:1

Observation

The first word he uses to identify himself is “bond-servant.”
Doulos: a slave; devoted to another to disregard of one’s own interests.
Metph: one who gives himself up to another’s will; those whose service is used by Christ in extending and advancing His cause among men.

Application

My first identity must be as a bond-servant of Christ. His will must be MY will.

Prayer

Father, I pledge myself to be a bond-servant of Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. His will is my will; His desire is my command. I seek to please Him in all that I do. This is my heart’s desire; deepen this conviction and commitment in my heart, I pray.

I live in a Christian culture that acts as if You are to be our servant; might my life clearly demonstrate the proper relationship of You as Lord. And I pray my wife, kids and their spouses would be your bond-servants as well.

Be glorified in us, I pray. Amen.