Unstoppable! 'Peter is Next' — Acts 12:3

Monday, July 7, 2025

When Herod saw how much [executing James, the brother of John,] pleased the Jewish people, he also arrested Peter. (This took place during the Passover celebration.)

Key Thought

Herod's persecution accomplished what he wanted. The Jewish mob and political leaders were delighted that he had taken action against Christian leaders. With Jerusalem full of people during Passover, Herod's political maneuver smells like a repeat of a previous Passover period when Jesus was arrested and executed. In the coming days, our readings will show us how God delivered Peter and frustrated Herod, who then received a fitting end to his life. For now, however, we need to realize that persecution is a part of our unstoppable faith. We shouldn't worry about it coming. But, because our Jesus is still Lord and Christ, we must make up our minds, now, to faithfully and graciously persevere when it happens!

Today's Prayer

Father, I am humbled at the courage of the early disciples and shaken with the realization persecution is part of the Christian life. Strengthen my faith. Deepen my resolve. May I never, ever, outlive my love, loyalty, and faithfulness to Jesus. I pray this in his name and for his glory. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

Have thoughts on this devotional? Leave a comment

5 Related Resources by Heartlight

Illustration

Illustration of Acts 12:3 NLT — When Herod saw how much [executing James, the brother of John,] pleased the Jewish people, he also arrested Peter. (This took place during the Passover celebration.)

Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Monday, July 7, 2025

A devotional to help reclaim Jesus as the daily Lord of our lives.
"Dear Precious Follower, David spoke the truth and We — Father, Son, and Spirit — wanted it emphasized, so you will find it included twice..."
A daily guide from the gospels that challenges readers to live for Jesus.
"Two revolutionaries were crucified with [Jesus], one on his right and one on his left. The people passing by shouted abuse, shaking their heads....."
The classic twice-daily devotional from Charles H. Spurgeon.
"Let us note that Christ delights to think upon his Church, and to look upon her beauty. As the bird returneth often to its nest, and as the wayfarer....."
A daily devotional featuring a Bible verse, thought and prayer.
"For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is....."

About This Devotional

Unstoppable! is a one-year devotional guide through the book of Acts. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage, a reflection and a prayer. The reflection opens up the day's scripture and shows how it challenges one to live for Jesus.

Unstoppable! is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.