SOAP stands for Scripture, Observation, Application and Prayer. Today’s journal comes from reading Romans 4.

Scripture

“Without becoming weak in faith he contemplated his own body, now as good as dead since he was about 100 years old, and the deadness of Sarah’s womb; yet, with respect to the promise of God, he did not waver in unbelief but grew strong in faith, giving glory to God, and being fully assured that what God had promised, He was able also to perform.” –Romans 4: 19-21

Observation

Abraham was a realist. He didn’t minimize his dire, impossible situation. He also didn’t minimize the power of almighty God! He thought about/pondered/contemplated his circumstance and God’s promise and power.

Abraham built his life and hopes upon the promises of God. Thus, he grew strong in faith, gave glory to God and brought glory to God.

God is ABLE to perform what He promises!

Application

Don’t deny my circumstances. Sometimes things look difficult–humanly impossible. “But God promised…”changes everything!

Do I have promises from God that are guiding my hopes, goals and life? I must have promises if I want to be strong in faith.

Prayer

Father, thank You for how You showed Your mighty power through Abraham–a man as good as dead who simply believed in You!
Might I, too, be a mighty man of faith, a man of God through whom You display YOUR power. I don’t trust in myself, and I refuse to let dire circumstances deter me from living in accordance with Your promises.

You promise

• eternal life  — John 5:24
• provision — Matthew 6:33
• life transformation — Philippians 2:13
• fruitful life — John 15:16
• power — Acts 1:8
• to be with me — Matthew 28-19-20
• victory — 2 Corinthians 2:14