If you’ve ever finished reading a Bible passage and thought, “Now what?” — the SOAP method gives you a clear, repeatable process for engaging deeply with God’s Word every single day.
What Does SOAP Stand For?
S — Scripture
Write out the verse or passage you’re studying. Yes, physically write it by hand. This slows you down, forces careful reading, and engages a different part of your brain than just reading. Choose a passage of 1-10 verses — small enough to go deep.
O — Observation
What do you notice about the text? This is where you look carefully at what the passage actually says before jumping to conclusions. Ask:
- What is the context? What comes before and after?
- Who is speaking? Who is the audience?
- Are there repeated words or phrases?
- What commands, promises, or warnings are present?
- What does this reveal about God’s character?
A — Application
How does this passage apply to your life right now? This is where Scripture becomes personal. Ask:
- Is there something I need to start doing or stop doing?
- Does this challenge a belief or attitude I hold?
- How does this truth change the way I see my current situation?
- Is there a specific relationship or decision this speaks to?
P — Prayer
Respond to God based on what you’ve studied. This isn’t a generic prayer — it’s a direct response to the specific truth you just encountered. Thank Him, confess where you’ve fallen short, ask for help applying what you’ve learned, or simply worship Him for who He is.
SOAP Bible Study Example: Philippians 4:6-7
Let’s walk through a complete SOAP study so you can see exactly how it works.
S — Scripture
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7, ESV)
O — Observation
- Paul is writing to the Philippian church from prison — he practices what he preaches
- “Do not be anxious about anything” — no exceptions or qualifications
- The antidote to anxiety is prayer with thanksgiving — not just asking, but thanking
- The result is peace that “surpasses understanding” — it doesn’t make logical sense given circumstances
- Peace “guards” hearts and minds — it’s active protection, like a military garrison
- This peace is “in Christ Jesus” — it’s only available through relationship with Him
A — Application
I’ve been anxious about finances this week. Instead of worrying, I need to bring this to God in prayer — specifically with thanksgiving for what He’s already provided. I tend to worry silently instead of praying specifically. Today I’ll write out my specific concerns as prayers and list 5 things I’m thankful for alongside them.
P — Prayer
“Father, forgive me for carrying anxiety instead of bringing it to You. I’m worried about [specific situation], but I choose to trust You with it right now. Thank You for providing for me in the past — for [specific blessings]. I ask for Your peace that guards my heart and mind today. Help me to pray before I worry. In Yeshua’s name, amen.”
SOAP Bible Study Example #2: Proverbs 3:5-6
S — Scripture
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6, ESV)
O — Observation
- “All your heart” — complete trust, not partial or conditional
- “Do not lean on your own understanding” — a direct command against self-reliance
- “In all your ways” — not just in church or spiritual moments, but in every area of life
- “Acknowledge Him” — recognize His authority and presence in every decision
- The promise: “He will make straight your paths” — direction and clarity come from trust
A — Application
I’ve been trying to figure out a career decision entirely on my own — analyzing pros and cons without really seeking God’s direction. This verse calls me to stop leaning on my own analysis and start acknowledging God’s sovereignty over my career path. This week, I’ll spend time in prayer about this decision before making any more lists.
P — Prayer
“Lord, I confess that I’ve been trusting my own reasoning more than You about this decision. I acknowledge that You see what I can’t see. I surrender this choice to You and ask for Your direction. Make my path straight. I trust You with all my heart. Amen.”
Tips for Making SOAP Work Long-Term
- Keep your journal accessible. Next to your bed, on your desk, or in your bag.
- Use a reading plan. Don’t choose a new passage from scratch every day — follow a plan through a book of the Bible.
- Time-box it. 15-20 minutes is enough. Don’t make it a burden.
- Review weekly. Look back at your week’s entries every Sunday. You’ll see patterns of what God is teaching you.
- Share with someone. Text a friend your observation or application for the day. Accountability and encouragement in one step.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does SOAP Bible study take?
Most people complete a SOAP entry in 15-25 minutes. It can be shorter or longer depending on the passage length and how deeply you go. The key is consistency, not duration.
Can I do SOAP digitally or does it need to be handwritten?
While handwriting has research-backed benefits for retention and focus, you can absolutely do SOAP in a notes app, Google Doc, or dedicated Bible study app. The method works regardless of medium.
What passages work best for SOAP?
SOAP works with any passage, but it’s especially powerful with: the Psalms, Proverbs (one verse at a time), the Gospels, and Paul’s letters. Start with passages of 1-5 verses for the most focused study.
Is SOAP good for group Bible study?
Yes! Have each person do their own SOAP during the week, then share observations and applications when the group meets. It creates rich discussion because everyone has already engaged personally with the text.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does SOAP Bible study take?
Most people complete a SOAP entry in 15-25 minutes. It can be shorter or longer depending on the passage length and how deeply you go. The key is consistency, not duration.
Can I do SOAP digitally or does it need to be handwritten?
While handwriting has research-backed benefits for retention and focus, you can absolutely do SOAP in a notes app, Google Doc, or dedicated Bible study app. The method works regardless of medium.
What passages work best for SOAP?
SOAP works with any passage, but it’s especially powerful with: the Psalms, Proverbs (one verse at a time), the Gospels, and Paul’s letters. Start with passages of 1-5 verses for the most focused study.
Is SOAP good for group Bible study?
Yes! Have each person do their own SOAP during the week, then share observations and applications when the group meets. It creates rich discussion because everyone has already engaged personally with the text.
Want to try SOAP with a group? Founded in Truth Fellowship hosts weekly Bible studies where we dig deep into Scripture together. Join us this week.
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