Hebrews 4:12 - SOAP

For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. ~Hebrews 4:12

In Wayne Cordero’s book Divine Mentor he says that people are always asking him to mentor them. He always says, “Sure. Meet me at this coffee house from 6:30 – 7:30 a.m.” How does the pastor of a church of 20,000 mentor everyone who asks? Here’s how he does it.

Whoever shows up follows Pastor Cordero’s SOAP plan. “S” (Scripture) – for 20 minutes they all read the same passage silently. “O” (Observation), “A” (Application), and “P” (Prayer) – for 20 minutes they silently write down what God is teaching them from that passage. They write out everything they observe from the teaching. Then they write how they can apply the truths to their own lives. Lastly, they write out a prayer asking God for help in living out these truths in their lives.

The attendees finally each read aloud to the rest of the group what they wrote down. You may say, “But Pastor Cordero isn’t mentoring them. They are just reading the Word.” Actually, he is guiding them to the best mentor they could have – the Holy Spirit. Jesus said that when He left, He would leave a teacher to guide us -- His Holy Spirit.

Today, walk through the SOAP system with the Scripture above – Hebrews 4:12.

Scripture: Hebrews 4:12

Observe: What are your observations about this passage.

Further Thoughts: Ask yourself some questions and apply this passage to your life.

Pray: Ask the Holy Spirit to guide you today to follow these truths

The Rhema becomes our daily mentor

Wayne Cordero in his book, Divine Mentor, writes how Christ and His Spirit is the best mentor we can find in this life. We have access 24/7 to God’s Word, Christ’s example, and the Holy Spirit’s teaching. Therefore, we must just take time to absorb the instruction that is available to us.

The Word of God as it stands in printed form is the Logos. The truth stands as truth all by itself. But there are times that you can be reading the Word, and it’s like the words comes flying off of the page into your heart. The truth to your present circumstances and challenges becomes crystal clear. Every door is suddenly open and your mind is full of ideas, peace, and certainty. In that moment you are seeing the world through God’s eyes. Absorbing His wisdom. Experiencing the Word as a living, breathing, active force that can change your entire perspective. That is understanding the Word as your Rhema or personal word from the Lord for your life today.

Further Thoughts:

1. What is your “go to” plan when you need help, counseling, or direction in your life?
2. Have you ever experienced the Logos becoming your Rhema? Describe.
3. What is each part of the Trinity’s role in touching our lives with Rhema?
4. How is it that an ancient writing can be relevant to life and its circumstances today?

Father, I need Your guidance in my life. May Your Word become my Rhema each day. Amen.