Reflection
In today's readings, God's sovereign protection shines through dark circumstances. 2 Chronicles 22-23 and 2 Kings 11 reveal how God preserves His covenant promises through faithful people like Jehosheba when evil Queen Athaliah tries to destroy the royal line. Psalm 131 models humble, childlike trust, while Matthew 8 demonstrates Jesus' absolute authority.

The key insight we can draw from these passages is this: God's authority protects His people and purposes, calling us to respond with humble, childlike trust even in uncertain times.

Let's break this down into a simple principle:

Trust in God's sovereign protection and respond with humble faith, recognizing His authority in all circumstances.

Here are five practical steps we can take to apply today's readings:

1. Write down one situation where you need to trust God's protection.

2. Spend 5 minutes in quiet prayer without asking for anything, just being present with God.

3. Identify one area where you're trying to control outcomes and surrender it to God.

4. Show humble service to someone without expecting recognition.

5. Tell someone about a time when God showed His faithfulness in difficulty.

As you go about your day, reflect on this question: How does knowing God is sovereign change the way you handle uncertainty?

Conclusion
Thank you for joining me today. God's authority protects His people even in the darkest circumstances. Let humble trust fill your heart as you rest in His sovereign care. Until tomorrow, may you find peace in His unfailing protection.