Beginner-Friendly SOAP Bible Study Method to Grow Your Faith
Have you ever opened your Bible, read a few verses, and walked away unsure of what it really meant for your life? You're not alone. One of the most common struggles believers face is understanding how to actually apply Scripture to everyday life. That’s where the SOAP Bible study method comes in—a simple, effective, and Spirit-led way to dig deeper into the Word of God and hear His voice clearly.
I believe that studying God's Word should never feel intimidating. Whether you're new to Bible study or simply looking for a more intentional approach, SOAP is a powerful tool to help you grow spiritually, develop a deeper relationship with God, and live out your Kingdom purpose.
WHAT IS THE SOAP BIBLE STUDY METHOD?
SOAP is an acronym that stands for:
S – Scripture
O – Observation
A – Application
P – Prayer
Let’s break each step down so you can start using this method today.
S – Scripture: Write It Down
Begin by selecting a passage of Scripture. This could be a verse from a devotional, your daily reading plan, or a chapter that’s been on your heart.
Write out the verse or verses that stand out to you. Writing helps you slow down and really engage with the Word.
Example:
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight." – Proverbs 3:5-6
O – Observation: What Do You See?
Ask yourself, “What is happening in this passage? Who is speaking? Who is it speaking to?” Reflect on any patterns, promises, or truths. Try not to rush this part—this is where revelation begins.
Observation Example:
This verse is a reminder that trusting God completely requires surrender. It acknowledges that our own understanding is limited, but God's wisdom is perfect.
A – Application: Make It Personal
Now, think about how the Scripture applies to your own life. What is God saying to you through this verse? How can you act on this truth today? We are called to be doers of God’s word not just mere hearers alone.
Application Example:
I often rely on my own understanding and overthink decisions. This verse reminds me to seek God in all things, big or small, and trust that He will guide me.
P – Prayer: Respond to God
Finish by turning your reflections into a heartfelt prayer. Ask God for help, thank Him for His truth, and invite the Holy Spirit to help you live it out.
Prayer Example:
"Lord, help me to trust You more and stop leaning on my own understanding. Teach me to submit every area of my life to You, and make my paths straight. Amen."
DOWNLOAD A FREE S.O.A.P BIBLE STUDY TEMPLATE
WHY THE SOAP METHOD WORKS FOR BEGINNERS
It is structured but simple
It encourages daily intimacy with God
It makes Scripture practical and applicable
It helps develop the habit of listening and journaling
You don’t need to be a Bible scholar to start studying God’s Word. The SOAP method meets you right where you are and walks you step by step into deeper revelation and relationship with Jesus.
Learn how to use the SOAP Bible study method—a simple, beginner-friendly way to study Scripture, hear God’s voice, and grow in your faith with intention.
Tools to Help You Get Started
A Bible (physical or digital). Here are my favorite journaling bible – The Inspire Praise NLT bible, The ESV Spiral-bound Journaling bible, Amplified bible – The Everyday Life Amplified Bible by Joyce Meyer; Favorite NIV bible – The Women’s Devotional Bible.
A journal or one of our faith-based inspirational journals
A pen and a highlighter (highlighter is optional)
A quiet place and an open heart
God still speaks, and His Word is alive and active. The SOAP Bible study method is a beautiful way to slow down, listen, and hear His heart. Whether you're starting fresh or need a reset in your devotional time, this method can be your guide into a more vibrant, Spirit-led life.
At 633 Kingdom Collective, we're here to walk with you on this journey—to grow deeper in faith and boldly live out our God-given purpose.
Prefer to watch instead of read? Here’s the video version
Want a simple and effective way to study the Bible and actually hear from God? The SOAP Bible Study Method is a beginner-friendly tool to help you go deeper in your quiet time, understand Scripture better, and grow spiritually. In this video, I walk you through how to use SOAP (Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer) step by step so you can build a consistent and meaningful Bible study routine.
