SOAP: words of grace

S - Deuteronomy 17:18-20
And when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, he shall write for himself in a book a copy of this law, approved by the Levitical priests. And it shall be with him, and he shall read in it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the LORD his God by keeping all the words of this law and these statutes, and doing them, that his heart may not be lifted up above his brothers, and that he may not turn aside from the commandment, either to the right hand or to the left, so that he may continue long in his kingdom, he and his children, in Israel.

O - Israel's kings were expected to have read, copied, and studied ALL of the Law. This rooted them in the story of God, his purposes, and his people. The fullness of life and goodness of God for the king's family and kingdom started with his personal devotion to God and his word. Learning to fear God comes through obedience to the Bible. Humility and faithfulness is found through the reading of scripture. The enjoyment of life and guarding of one's family is unearthed in the study of God's Word.

A - I have certainly struggled with devoting time and obedience to your Word. This picture of the kings helps me . . . especially recognizing how when we want what is not good for us (a king) you offer a step towards life that we can take (guidelines in the midst of compromise). I hear Jesus saying that he offers me life through his word and that though I fall short of the possibility of full life he extends the grace of his words to lead me to higher ground.

P - Lord help me develop the discipline of reading, copying, and studying your Word. I want to hear your voice clearly that I might not miss the steps of grace you offer me towards fullness of life.