Key Takeaways

When he gives you what you are asking for, will you give it back?

Many of us struggle with waiting, especially when there is something we want so badly it hurts. Like a wrapped gift under the Christmas tree, we can become discouraged, wondering if we’ll ever get what we are hoping for. What if, while we are waiting for a gift from God, he is actually waiting on us to show him what we’ll do with it?

In 1 Samuel, a woman named Hannah shows us what it looks like to ask God for something we really want, while also honoring God’s plan.

Hannah had waited for a child for a very long time. She promised God that if he answered her prayer, she would dedicate that child back to him. Her promise brought her peace, even in her waiting, and her obedience became a part of God’s larger plan that eventually led to Jesus.

We can also have peace and confidence that God has heard us and is with us when we give all he has given us back to him. The good news that we celebrate at Christmas is that at just the right time, Jesus came to live a perfect life, and then gave it back for our forgiveness, healing, and hope. He came to show us that we are seen and loved, and that our lives and decisions matter, even while we’re still waiting for what is wrapped.

Pray

Prayer is our time to talk to God. Let this prayer inspire your conversations with God this week.

Father, I am coming to you today with many requests, and I admit it can be hard to wait and trust. Help me to want what you want and to rest in your promise, that all good and perfect things come from you.

God, as I wait for answers to my prayers, I am remembering all the gifts you have already given me. You have been so good to me. Help me to always remember your faithfulness, and to be faithful in return. I give all these gifts back to you Lord for as long as I have them.

God, this Christmas I pray for those around me who do not know you yet. I pray that you would touch their hearts and that they would find peace in your promise and a life-giving community of faith. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Worship

Bring the worship set from this weekend into your Slot and Spot and praise God for his faithfulness.

Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. – James 1:17

• Take You at Your Word – Cody Carnes
• Glory, Honor, Power – Influence Music
• Mary, Did You Know? – Maverick City Music

Learn

This week, read through the scripture shared in the message and dive deeper into God’s word.

• Scripture – 1 Samuel 1:9-18, 26-28
• Scripture – 1 Samuel 2:21
• Scripture – Luke 2
• Read – The God of Answered Prayers
• Watch – 1 Samuel Overview – Bible Project
• Watch – Advent Video Series
• Listen – Luke 2 from Through the Word

Reflect

Reflect on these questions during your Slot and Spot/discussions with others.

Have you ever promised God something in the heat of the moment?

• What was it? Did you remember your promise afterwards?

Pastor Mark compares our desires and prayers to wrapped Christmas gifts placed under a tree – we aren’t really sure if we’ll get what we asked for and we have to wait before we’ll find out.

• What do you want from God so badly that it hurts? Why do you want it?
• Do you find it challenging to wait? Where do you take your discouragement when your prayers still feel “wrapped”?

In Samuel 1, Hannah vows that if God blesses her with a son, she will dedicate him back to the Lord. God blesses her with a child, and she follows through with her promise.

• If God gives you what you’re praying for, would you give it back?
• What would it look like for you to decide ahead of time that you will give back to God whatever you receive? What impact do you think this would have on your relationship with God?

Can you think of gifts God has given you or prayers he has answered in the past?

• How can you remember and honor God’s faithfulness through each one?
• In what ways are you already doing that?

Next Steps

Our faith grows when we gather, connect, and serve. Make this a year where you show God that you are ready to give back what he has given you. Gather with us on Sundays. Connect with God in community by joining a J-Group. Find your part in God’s bigger picture when you Serve others on our J-Team.