The Path: Genesis 43 SOAP Journal
- True North Church
- Mar 30
- 3 min read
The Path Journal is designed to be more than just a tool for organization, it’s your daily companion for spiritual growth and transformation. With 365 days of scripture reflections, spaces for Sunday sermon notes, and encouragement, this journal helps you stay connected to God’s Word and grounded in your faith journey. Whether you’re looking to deepen your biblical knowledge or embark on a new chapter with Christ, the Path Journal offers a steady guide for building a life rooted in truth. Over the next year, we’ll share weekly journal insights, inspired by scriptures like Genesis 43, to encourage reflection and inspire action in your daily routine.
Diving into Genesis 43:11 with the SOAP Method
Scripture
"Then their father Israel said to them, “If it must be so, then do this: take some of the choice fruits of the land in your bags, and carry a present down to the man, a little balm and a little honey, gum, myrrh, pistachio nuts, and almonds."
Observation
After much time of hesitancy from Jacob, he finally allows his sons to take Benjamin to Egypt to get food and free Simeon.
This was hard for Jacob as he was trying to protect Benjamin. Not only that, but he sends his sons with the "best fruits of the land," - In this included almonds and pistachios. During extreme famine, this is not something that's easy to give away.
Application
Jacob shows us here that in times of need, we may have to drop our pride, expressed humility, not control the situation, and let people help US. It can be easy for us to want to figure out everything on our own terms, but that is not always helpful. However, Jacob didn't make a rash decision, he took time to discern. Also, in times of need, it's important to still give our first fruits to the Lord and place great trust in him that he is going to use them better than we could.
Prayer
Lord, place in me a humble, yet discerning, heart, and times of need. Wash any and all pride from me. Most of all, remind me that my great trust in you results in good fruit, no matter my circumstances. I love you, God, and I trust you in Jesus's name, Amen.
Trusting God with what we hold tight
Genesis 43:11 reminds us of the power of humility and trust. It shows that there can be great joy in releasing control over things like our time, talent, and treasure. Even in seasons of uncertainty, when it’s tempting to hold back, God invites us to trust Him with our best... faithfully believing that He will do more with it than we ever could. As you reflect today, may you be encouraged to let go of pride, lean into discernment, and trust that God is always working for your good.
Don't know what the SOAP Method is?
SOAP is one of the primary ways to dive deep into scripture and get the most out of our time with the Word. If you don’t know what the SOAP method is, it stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer:
Scripture: Physically write out the Bible verse. When writing it down, you are most likely to memorize it and you’re opening up the chance for more to be revealed to through the written words.
Observation: What do you see in the verses you’re reading? Who is speaking? Do you see a theme or something that stands out to you?
Application: How can I apply this to my real life? This is where God’s Word becomes tangible through YOU. What is God saying to you? How can you become more like Him? Are there any changes you could make?
Prayer: Has God revealed something to you during this time that you need to confess OR thank Him for? Do not skip this step! There is power in prayer and this is a great way to complete your reading time.