Here is how to use the SOAP Bible study method to dive deeper into Scripture and draw nearer to the Lord through His Word.
Have you ever sat down to read your Bible and felt unsure of where to start or how to make the most of your time?
For most of my life as a Christian, I’ve had a desire to read God’s Word, understand what it means, and wisely know how to apply it to my life, but for years I struggled to know where to start.
The first and most important thing is that God’s Word never returns void. Reading His Word, even if it doesn’t make sense to you the first time (or the 101st time) is always worthwhile.
The second is, you’re not alone.
Many of us long to hear God’s voice through Scripture but don’t know exactly how to dive in deeper, even when we have the desire to (and maybe you’re struggling with the desire, too! You’re in the right place.).
That’s where the SOAP Bible study method comes in—a straightforward, easy-to-follow approach that helps you engage with God’s Word in a practical and personal way.
The Soap Bible Study Method
SOAP stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. Let’s break it down step by step so you can start using this method in your quiet times and Bible study.

Step 1: Scripture
Begin by choosing a passage of the Bible to read. This could be a few verses, a chapter, or even part of a devotional plan you’re following.
I have a ton of topical Bible verse posts on different emotions, holidays, struggles, spiritual disciplines, and more to check out for ideas of places to start.
I recommend starting with a chapter so that you can get a whole story at a time.
No need to overcomplicate this step!
As you read, take your time. Don’t rush through it—let the words soak in.
A woman from my church encourages us to hold off before jumping into our study Bible explanations, commentaries, or BibleRef and “let the Holy Spirit have a crack at your heart first“.
I haven’t forgotten that phrase since she first mentioned it. It’s challenged me to sit with our primary resource, the Bible, longer than any other resource available.
It’s okay not to understand everything immediately. It’s okay to sit in the confusion or sometimes even boredom (here’s looking at you, Numbers!) for a while.
Give it some time and space before pulling out all of your extra resources.
Read it. Then read it again. Then read it again!
Step 2: Observation
Next, take a closer look at the Scripture you’ve written down.
What stands out to you? Are there words or phrases that are repeated? What does this passage reveal about God’s character, His promises, or His instructions?
Think about the context: Who was this written for, and why? How might the original audience have understood it?
I do pull out my extra resources to figure out the answers to a lot of these questions.
In our church’s women’s Bible study, we encourage everyone to write 3 symbols in their Scripture journal – a lightbulb, a question mark, and an arrow.
The lightbulb stands for anything that stood out to you in the passage. The question mark shows places of the passage that you feel confused about (Why did Jesus do that? What did that festival celebrate?).
The arrow points out a personal connection you have to the passage, which leads us into the Application step.
Step 3: Application
Here’s where it gets personal. How did this passage touch you personally? Does it relate to something you are going through right now in your life? How can you apply what you’ve observed to your life today? Ask yourself:
- What is God teaching me in this passage?
- Is there something I need to start or stop doing?
- How can I live differently because of what I’ve read?
In my long season of debilitating insomnia, there are all kinds of verses that touch me in different stages. Some days, Jesus’ tenderness and compassion jump out.
Sometimes, I love seeing the patterns of faithfulness in God’s character in Old Testament stories. Other times, I sink into the Psalms, seeing David acknowledge the very real emotions of his fear and suffering and then cry out to God and proclaim His goodness in the very same chapter.
Step 4: Prayer
Finally, spend time talking to God about the passage.
Personally, I love to start with prayer, pray along the way, and end with prayer, too. The Holy Spirit’s guidance is invaluable.
Thank the Lord for His Word and ask for His help in applying it to your life. Ask for wisdom and understanding in places that feel fuzzy.
This is a moment to be honest and open, sharing your heart with the One who knows you best.
Why SOAP Works
What makes the SOAP method so effective is its simplicity. It’s just a tool to help you to move forward when you feel stuck.
It doesn’t require a ton of time, fancy tools, or deep theological knowledge.
It’s just you, your Bible, and an open heart. Whether you’re a seasoned believer or just beginning your faith journey, SOAP is a tool that can help you grow closer to God.
So, grab your Bible, a notebook, and a quiet spot.
Start with a short passage—maybe one of the Psalms or a few verses from the Gospels—and give SOAP a try.
You might be surprised by how God speaks to you through His Word!
What about you? Have you tried the SOAP method before? I’d love to hear about your experience or answer any questions you have. Let’s grow together!