#2: Broken Plans, Greater Purpose

Preparing for Worship

Hebrews 11:1-2, 13 (NKJV)

Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good testimony. 

These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.

Prayer

Sovereign God, You are worthy of all our trust and confidence. You are good. That truth remains eternal. We believe. O Lord, be known, be exalted and be praised in all the earth. We lift You high. Amen.

Worship through Songs

R-56: THE FIRST CHRISTMAS (第一個聖誕節)

Luke 2:1, 4-14 (NKJV)

And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered.

Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife, who was with child. So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night. And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid. Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”

Sermon

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Song of Response

Worship through Prayer

1. Lord, I need Your help to face the unexpected challenges that come my way. Do not let any of them destroy me. Instead, give me faith to overcome and strength of will to do what is right in Your eyes. Let me move unwaveringly towards the path of righteousness even when I'm hurting badly.

2. All-knowing God, I admit that it is hard for me to go through trials and still believe that it will bring about good. Please hold me close to You as I struggle in fear through darkness until I see Your precious light. Help me in my unbelief. I want to believe You.

3. Lord, I don't need to know everything. That's fine. You know all things and that's what matters. So I will follow You. You know the way. Give me the faith to move in step with Your Spirit according to Your Word each day. I know one day it will all make sense. For now, give me peace to deal with the unknown. Amen.

Self-Reflection & Discussion

1. What is one plan you have that got broken (for this year or in the past)? Evaluate your response: Did you do what was right? Did you trust God and accepted His sovereign plan?

2. How would you improve your response to things not going according to your plan?

3. What struggles do you think you'll face in trying to respond to broken plans the way the Bible teaches? Pray and ask God for help and guidance.

Worship through Giving

If you are a regular attender of GCCP and are led to give to the Lord, you can give through the options given below. You are not obligated to give (2 Corinthians 9:7). We are simply glad that you can use this worship guide to honor our Lord.

Bank Transfer. Give via direct deposit or online fund transfer using your preferred mobile banking app. Visit the Giving Tab for bank details.

Local/International Channels. Check out the Cashless Giving tab if you wish to give through GCash, Paymaya, Paypal, or credit card.

Drop-off. An offering dropbox is available at the church entrance. Please make sure your offering is in a sealed envelope.