The SOAP method: read, notice, apply, and pray
SOAPaDay is a free, ad-free discipleship program from Faith Software, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that builds technology to help people draw closer to God.
We built SOAPaDay around SOAP because it's one of the simplest ways to turn daily Bible reading into a conversation with God.
What the method is
SOAP is a long-standing devotional method. Each letter is one step, and you can do all four in about ten minutes.
The steps
Step 1 · S — Scripture
Write the Word
Open your Bible to the day's reading, and take your time. When you're done, find a verse that spoke to you and write it out word for word.
Step 2 · O — Observation
Listen for truth
What's happening in the passage? Look for repeated words, commands, promises, and what it shows about God's character. Write down what stands out.
In SOAPaDay you'll see: "What stands out?"
Step 3 · A — Application
A personal response
How does this apply to your life today? Is there something to confess, a promise to hold onto, or a step to take?
In SOAPaDay you'll see: "How does this apply to your life?"
Step 4 · P — Prayer
Speak to the Father
Close in prayer, even just a few sentences asking God to help you live what you learned. Then sit quietly for a moment and listen.
In SOAPaDay you'll see: "Pray in response to this passage."
Worked example
Philippians 4:6–7 (KJV)
Scripture
"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." — Philippians 4:6–7 (KJV)
Observation
Paul doesn't tell us to ignore what worries us. He tells us to bring all of it to God, and to bring it with thanks. The promise that follows is peace that guards our hearts and minds, not a promise that every problem goes away.
Application
Today I'll write down the one thing I keep turning over in my mind and pray about it by name instead of carrying it around. Before I ask for anything, I'll thank God for one specific way He has already provided this week.
Prayer
Lord, You know what I'm anxious about before I say a word. I give it to You now and thank You for how You've cared for me so far. Guard my heart and mind with Your peace today. Amen.
How SOAPaDay helps
- Guided prompts for each step of the method you choose
- Switch methods anytime — every journal entry remembers its method
- Highlight verses with your own color meanings
- Daily reminders, streaks, and your private journal history
- Complete a SOAP entry any day before midnight to grow your streak.
Other methods
Why it's free
Faith Software, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization (EIN 42-3505436). SOAPaDay is free and ad-free — cost should never stand between a believer and daily time in the Word.
See our financial transparency