DNA Of A Dangerous Church - Day 07

Day 07 - Tuesday, August 20
Read Ephesians 1

Highlight
Paul's letter to the Ephesians is a profound theological treatise on the nature of the church and the believer's place in God's eternal plan. In Ephesians 1, Paul prays for the believers, asking that they may know the hope to which they are called and the power available to them through Christ. In Ephesians 1:18, Paul prays that "the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you." This hope is not just for personal assurance but also for empowering us to serve others. The early church's actions filled people with awe and drew them to Christ. This is a love unlike any the world has to offer. The hope and power we have in Jesus is a powerful force to make a difference as we bring the light of Christ into the dark places of our community.

Reflection & Prayer
For this reading plan we will be using a tool to guide our study of Scripture that’s called the S.O.A.P. Method.  It stands for Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer.  We recommend you use a journal with this method and write out your thoughts on each of these areas for each day of reading.  It doesn’t have to be long-winded and you don’t need a fancy journal.  But for anyone that has not journaled before, the benefit is that it often helps us focus and avoid distractions during prayer and Bible study.

S.O.A.P. Method

Scripture - Pick a verse or two that stood out to you and write it in your journal. Be looking for a “Holy Spirit Highlight.” What did you read and think “I needed to hear that” or felt like it was written just for you?

Observation - Now write some observations about the verse(s) or passage. What is this passage or verse saying about God? About people? How is Jesus revealed in these verses?

Application - Now write a few sentences on how this passage applies to your life. Is there truth about God that you are to believe? Is the Holy Spirit convicting you of something you need to do or stop doing in light of God’s truth? Who could you share this story with and how God is speaking to you about it this week?

Prayer - Now write out a prayer to God in response to this Scripture. Be honest and express your heart to Him. God always listens and He delights in your prayers (Psalm 34:15; Proverbs 15:8).