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S.O.A.P. a method of spiritual journaling
Scripture
Observation (What does it say?)
Application (What does it say to me?)
Prayer
S - Proverbs 18:4 “The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters, but the fountain of wisdom is a bubbling brook.”
O - The writer of Proverbs compares our words to water and the impact our words have on those around us.
A - It took some soul searching and thoughtful consideration to really reflect on this verse. I’m not even sure I get the full meaning yet. Deep waters make me think of the unknown and mysterious. I have a bit of fear when it comes to dark, deep water. It represents danger and causes me to be fearful and apprehensive of what lies below the surface. Scripture teaches that what lies deep in our hearts will come out of our mouths. Too many times in the past I have not liked what came out of my mouth which always points to a heart issue. When I have unconfessed sin or harbour negative feelings toward someone, these “deep water” feelings eventually come out of my mouth in some form that is ungodly and unhealthy for me and those to whom the words are directed. Confession and much soul-searching on a regular basis is needed to keep me from sinking to new depths.
We are reminded in Scripture to search diligently for and seek after wisdom. In this verse wisdom is metaphorically compared to a bubbling brook. Brooks are not deep but they are delightful! The sound of a bubbling brook is musical and draws people to it. It does not cause fear or look dark and foreboding but reflects sunlight and glistens with sparkles of dancing, moving images of colour. So, words of wisdom should bring joy and delight to those within hearing. I want to be wiser in my speech and more like a bubbling brook.
P -The tongue is the hardest to tame, Father, but through the power of your Spirit it can be bridled. I am weak but You are strong. Begin a work in me today that moves me towards wisdom in my speech that will reflect your Spirit so others will be drawn to You.