As a tree planted by the water indeed...
I deeply love how the Bible influences me. Whenever I take time to read and understand it, I feel like I can overcome even the toughest struggles I may encounter. It’s as if, as long as I have it with me and nourish my soul with it every day, I am filled with something indescribable. I can humble myself more easily, unlike when I distance myself from it. When I neglect reading the Bible, my attitude or worldly nature easily takes over. But when I am filled with God’s Word, my mind is remarkably calm, and I don’t act or react recklessly.
I strongly recommend setting aside time for personal devotion every day. It’s your private time with God, which includes prayer, Bible reading, and meditation—done at a time that best fits your pace of life. However, I suggest doing it both in the morning and before bed. Waking up early allows you to enjoy a quiet environment where you can be alone with God. This could even be His way of answering the prayers you sometimes doubt are being heard. Amazing, right? A way to go through the day still standing. We are guided! That’s one of the best things about it. Deuteronomy 4:29 says, “God promises that if we seek Him with all our heart and soul, we will find Him.”
Before, my devotion lacked direction. I thought that simply spending time reading God’s Word was enough. But reading without understanding is completely different. I’ve been asking God to help me know Him better, to be a Christian who pleases Him rather than people, and to keep the fire burning in my daily time with Him. The sad truth is, I often forced myself to read the Bible just because I knew it was the right thing to do. Even worse, I read in haste just so I could watch dramas or scroll through Facebook. And I didn’t want that—it was troubling.
That’s when I realized the importance of personal devotion with a guide. I started using the SOAP method, as suggested by our youth leader last Sunday through a TikTok link. It has been an effective one for my Bible reading:
SOAP METHOD
Scripture
Choose a verse or passage that speaks to your heart. Right now, I'm starting Proverbs again.
Observation
Take a few moments to reflect on what you’ve read.
- What is the overall message of the passage?
- What stood out to you about this verse?
- Are there any commands or instructions?
- What do you feel God is revealing to you through His Word?
Application
Consider how you can apply these scriptures to your daily life.
- How can you implement what you’ve read?
- What habits, attitudes, or changes do you need to make?
- What lessons can you take away from this reading?
Prayer
Pray in response to the passage.
- Thank God and ask for wisdom and revelation to help you apply these truths.
- What do you want to tell God as a result of what you’ve read?
- Spend time listening to what He may be speaking to you.
Oh, how good and wonderful it is to choose—and keep choosing—God despite the hindrances! Nothing can stop you when you know you are not alone and when you have the assurance of an indescribable God because of how great and awesome He is. Thank You, Lord!