How to Use the S.O.A.P. Bible Study Method: A Simple Guide for Daily Scripture
If you’ve been yearning for a deeper, more personal connection with God through His Word—but aren’t sure where to begin—the S.O.A.P. Bible study method is a simple and intentional way to slow down and truly engage with Scripture.
S.O.A.P. stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. This powerful framework helps you invite God into your quiet time—verse by verse, day by day—with clarity and purpose.
Here’s a step-by-step example of how you can use the S.O.A.P. method in your devotional time, using Isaiah 40:31 as our guide:
Scripture
Begin by reading a passage of Scripture—this can be a full chapter, a single verse, or even just a portion that speaks to you. Write it down in your journal. The act of writing helps you slow down, focus, and internalize the Word of God more deeply.
“But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;
they shall mount up with wings like eagles;
they shall run and not be weary;
they shall walk and not faint.”
—Isaiah 40:31 (ESV)
Observation
After writing down the passage, take a few moments to reflect on what stands out most. Think of the observation step as a time to slow down and really comb through the text—notice what captures your attention, stirs your spirit, or invites deeper thought.
Here are some helpful questions to guide your observation:
What do I notice about the passage?
Are there any words, phrases, or themes that stand out?
What challenges me about this passage?
What does this passage reveal about the character of God?
What can I learn from the context or people involved?
Here’s what stands out from Isaiah 40:31:
What stands out?
Those who wait for—or hope in—the Lord are promised a renewed supply of strength. It’s not a one-time boost, but a continual renewal as we place our trust in Him. The imagery of the eagle is powerful: eagles are among the most majestic and strong birds in the world. This verse paints a picture of strength, grace, and endurance—soaring effortlessly, running without fatigue, walking without growing tired.What challenges me about this passage?
Just before this verse, Scripture reminds us that even the strongest—youth in their prime—will grow tired and weary. That hits home. It’s a sobering reminder that I cannot rely on my own strength. If I’m placing my hope in anything other than the Lord, I will run dry. So I have to ask: Where am I placing my hope today?What does this teach me about God?
God is a renewer and restorer. He doesn't shame us in our weakness—He strengthens and sustains us in it. This verse reveals God’s compassionate nature: He lifts, encourages, and gives power to the weary. He’s not distant or indifferent to our struggles; He walks with us and empowers those who trust in Him.
Application
This step is where Scripture meets your everyday life. Ask yourself: What is God inviting me to learn here? How does this passage apply to my current season—in my relationships, responsibilities, or personal struggles? This is where God’s Word moves from being read to being lived.
Here are some reflection prompts to help:
What does God want me to learn from this passage?
How can I apply this truth to my daily life?
Is there an attitude I need to change?
What does God want me to learn from this passage?
When I put my hope in anything other than God, I will eventually feel tired, drained, and unfulfilled. But when I place my hope fully in Him, He doesn’t just sustain me—He renews me. The things that once wore me out in my own strength, I can now walk through with endurance. Like the eagle, I can soar—not by striving, but by trusting the One who provides the wind beneath my wings.How can I apply this to my daily life?
Today, I can examine where I’ve been placing my hope—whether knowingly or unknowingly. Am I relying on my own strength, ambition, or plans? I can ask the Holy Spirit to gently show me anything I’ve held too tightly—my goals, responsibilities, or desires—and invite God to take control. Rather than striving, I want to surrender and allow Him to guide and renew me in every area.Do I need to change my attitude?
Yes. When I feel tired, overwhelmed, or burdened, my default is often to try and fix everything myself first—and only then bring it to God. But Scripture reminds me to reverse that: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). I want to change my posture from self-reliance to surrender—placing God first, not last.
Prayer
The final step—prayer—is where you respond to God personally, thanking Him for meeting you in His Word and for the insights He’s revealed. This is your time to ask for strength, wisdom, and grace to live out what you’ve learned. Invite the Holy Spirit to help you walk in obedience and protect you from anything that might distract or discourage you.
This is simply a suggested outline—your prayer should be a sincere, honest conversation with the Lord, grounded in your personal relationship with Him.
Here’s an example of what that might look like:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for meeting me today in Your Word. Thank You for highlighting the areas in my life where I need to place my hope more fully in You. When I feel tired, stressed, or at the end of myself, remind me that my strength is renewed when I wait on You.
Help me to remember that You’ve promised I can soar like the eagle—not because of my own power, but because of Yours. When I see a bird gliding through the sky, remind me of this verse, and of the beautiful truth that You carry and sustain those who trust in You.
Lord, I ask for Your help in applying what I’ve learned today. Show me clearly where I’m relying on my own strength, and gently lead me back to surrender. Protect me from distractions, discouragement, and doubt. Silence any voice—whether from the enemy or my own thoughts—that tries to convince me I have to do it all alone.
May this truth sink deep into my heart and return to my mind often. Thank You for Your renewing strength and constant presence. I love You, Lord. I pray this in the precious name of Jesus.
Amen.
Final Remarks
The S.O.A.P. method isn’t about performance—it’s about presence. It’s an invitation to slow down, tune in, and let God speak to your heart—one verse at a time.
As you return to His Word day by day, may you find fresh strength, quiet confidence, and steady renewal—like the eagle who soars, not by striving, but by the wind beneath its wings.
Keep showing up. God will meet you there.
