Our Lord reigns, and that comforts our hearts amid turmoil. We don't lose hope when nations rise against our God. Rather, we trust him, engage the political system of our day, pray, and serve while walking holily before our God.

Chapter 20 of the Confession emphasizes the freedom believers have in Christ and the responsibilities that come with that freedom, particularly regarding adherence to God’s authority and lawful governance.

It is good to thank our Lord for his goodness and grace in our lives. Cultivating a heart of gratitude is a challenge that takes time throughout our Christian lives.

Matthew 16 asks us if we will follow Jesus with our lives. He is the Son of God and the only one worthy of our faith. When we stand on him, we are guaranteed to prevail.

Why is our counter-cultural gospel such good news? It gives us true freedom in a performance-driven world order.

Is God working out his eternal plan in time and space? Yes, and Jesus' kingdom parables in Matthew 13 explain that his plan involves the proclamation of the gospel to all and the delay of his judgment on the wicked to preserve the lives of his beloved children.

How do you deal with disappointment and the doubt that comes with it? You're going to struggle with it just like John the Baptist did. He took his doubt to Jesus and received gracious rest for his soul. Will you do the same?

Whenever Jesus sent his disciples out as his witnesses, he informed them that persecution would come their way. This is true for all of us as well. Jesus prepares us through his Spirit, like he prepared his disciples years ago. Be ready to stand for Christ amid the wolves of this world.

Is Jesus still riding in majesty? Yes. He will reign for all eternity after he took his crown upon his head in his resurrection. We follow him in his grace.

Should we participate in our King's mission of seeking and saving the lost? Yes. But, "Will we?" is the question. We must learn to see people as Jesus sees them, feel for people as Jesus feels for them, and think about people and their eternity as Jesus thinks about them.