The Path: Genesis 15:1 SOAP Journal
The Path Journal isn’t just a tool for reflection, it’s a daily companion for growing in faith and staying grounded in God’s promises. With 365 days of scripture reflections, dedicated space for sermon notes, and encouragement, this journal is designed to help you deepen your relationship with God. Today, we’re diving into Genesis 15:1, exploring how God’s reassurance to Abram speaks to us today... reminding us to trust Him fully and choose faith over fear.
Understanding What is SOAP Journaling
SOAP provides a clear and meaningful way to dive deeper into scripture each day. Begin with Scripture, allowing God’s Word to speak directly to you. Move to Observation, noting what stands out and what God might be saying. Next, apply these truths to your life through Application, and finally, engage in Prayer, bringing your reflections before God. This method not only enriches your understanding but also equips you to live out the Word in your daily life.
Diving into Genesis 15:1
Scripture
Observation
“Do NOT be afraid” or “DO NOT FEAR” - God repeats this to us many times. 365 times we are told throughout the Bible, "do not fear". This assurance is something that God gives us DAILY. We should not take it for granted, but see it for what it is… a reward. How awesome is it to know that God NEVER lets His guard down?
Isaiah 41:10 (a FAVORITE)
"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
“I am your shield” … The best defense is a good offense… the most effective way to protect ourselves is to put in the effort and actively attack our opponent (Satan/Sin). We can do this by reading scripture, listening to worship songs, praying... In this moment, God is telling Abraham that if he has great faith (offense), then his defense (God) will protect him.
“Our very great reward” is not money or material things. Through this chapter and the ones before and after, God is revealing himself to Abram so he can stay focused on the real reward… not children or land, it’s God. The rest comes as blessings but THE GREAT REWARD, IS THE GOOD NEWS. It’s our eternal place in Heaven, our RELATIONSHIP with God.
Like Abram, we are surrounded by so many worldly things that instinctively try to make us worry, control, and predict our future. As long as we fear ONLY God (and not the future), and believe in God’s protection and promise, we can rest easy knowing that our future is in the palm of HIS hands and has been planned for HIS good (Isaiah 49:16). This is how we can change our instincts to pick up our shield instead of being frozen in our thoughts.
Application
It's often easier to retreat into fear than to fight for joy and fully trust in Jesus. Abram's impatience made room for doubt, but God’s command remains the same: DO NOT FEAR.
God assures us that we are never alone in our faith journey. Instead of worrying about what we lack, we can trust that God’s promises are greater than our uncertainties. We must have faith and remember that God’s love for us is far greater than our uncertainties. WE NEED TO REFOCUS ON WHAT WE TRULY NEED, and that is salvation, THE GREAT REWARD.
Prayer
Jesus, I am so grateful that you are righteous, faithful, and sovereign. Just as you assured Abram, help remind me that you are in control, to trust in you as my shield, that protects me DAILY and will never fail. Whenever I feel the path ahead is unclear, and fear tries to creep in, I hope that I pause and refocus on you as my protector and provider. The world is such a dark place built on unknowns, but your great reward is BRIGHT, powerful, AND ETERNAL. It cannot be taken away. Thank you for protecting us, even in the moments when we look away from you. I pray this for all of us. Amen.
Trusting in God's Promise
If fear and doubt have been weighing on your heart, you’re not alone. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by uncertainty, wondering if God really sees you, if He truly has a plan, or if His promises still stand. But take a deep breath, Genesis 15:1 reminds us us that you are not forgotten. The Path Journal helps us lean into God’s Word, wrestle with His truth, and stand firm in His unwavering love. This reflection strengthens our shield, it raises it up high. Wherever you are in your faith journey, may this be a space where you grow in confidence and trust in the One who holds your future in His hands.
Need more? We are praying and here for you. Keep journaling, keep seeking, and trust that God is always guiding you forward.
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