If you’ve ever started a Bible reading plan in January and found yourself already behind by February, you’re not alone. Life gets busy. The to-do list gets long. And sometimes, reading the Bible feels more like checking a box than hearing God’s voice.

But what if it could be different?
What if your daily time with God wasn’t just about reading words, but about actually hearing from Him and knowing how to respond?

That’s why I love the S.O.A.P. method. It’s not complicated, it doesn’t require a theology degree, and it works whether you’ve been following Jesus for decades or you’re just starting to explore the Bible.

What is the S.O.A.P. Method?

S.O.A.P. stands for:

• S — Scripture
• O — Observation
• A — Application
• P — Prayer

Here’s how it works:

1. Scripture

Pick your daily reading. This can be from a reading plan (YouVersion has great ones), or just start with a book of the Bible and work through it a chapter a day.

As you read, don’t rush. Highlight or write down one verse that stands out to you. That’s your “S” for the day.

Example:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” — Psalm 23:1

2. Observation

Write down what you notice about the verse. What’s happening in the passage? Who is speaking? Who is being spoken to? Is there a repeated word or theme?

Example:

David isn’t just saying God provides — he’s saying God is personal like a shepherd. It’s about relationship, not just resources.

3. Application

Ask, How does this apply to my life right now? This is where the Word moves from your notebook into your heart.

Example:

I’ve been feeling anxious about my finances lately. This verse reminds me that God already knows my needs, and He’s leading me step by step. My job is to follow, not to stress.

4. Prayer

End by talking to God about what you’ve read and written. It doesn’t have to be fancy — just honest.

Example:

Lord, thank You for being my Shepherd. Help me trust You to lead me and provide for me. Remind me today that I have all I truly need in You.

Why S.O.A.P. Works

The S.O.A.P. method slows you down. It keeps you from skimming and helps you engage. Over time, your journal becomes a record of God’s voice in your life — proof that He is speaking and leading you day by day.

If you don’t have a journal, grab one today. It doesn’t need to be expensive. What matters is that you use it.

Getting Started

1. Pick a reading plan or book of the Bible.
2. Commit to a time of day (morning with coffee, lunch break, before bed).
3. Write out your S.O.A.P. every day — even if it’s just a few sentences.
4. Watch how your faith grows.

God’s Word is living and active (Hebrews 4:12). If you’ll make space for it and take time to listen, you’ll start to notice something amazing:
It’s not just you reading the Bible — it’s the Bible reading you.

Want 30 days worth of reading to get you started? Here you go!