SOAP stands for Scripture, Observation, Application and Prayer. Today’s journal comes from reading Isaiah 57.

Scripture

“For thus says the high and exalted One who lives forever, whose name is Holy, “I dwell on a high and holy place, and also with the contrite and lowly of spirit in order to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite.” — Isaiah 57:15

Observation

There are two places where a person can meet God: one is a high, holy place which only He inhabits. The other is a place of humility, brokenness, and contrition which is the place of humble, repentant sinners–people who are poor in spirit.

Application

I must have times of contrition over sin and make sure I have a humble spirit before God. But I am also grateful that, by God’s grace, I have been raised up and seated with Christ in the heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6).

Prayer

Father, I confess that I have no hope to walk with You apart from Christ. You expose me and bring me low in order to exalt me in Christ to a high and holy place with You! Thank you for grace that goes far beyond forgiveness to actually making me holy!
Amen.