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

Tuesday, July 7, 2026

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 Tuesday, July 7, 2026

The classic twice-daily devotional from Charles H. Spurgeon.
"Tell me where you lost the company of a Christ, and I will tell you the most likely place to find him. Have you lost Christ in the closet by..."
A daily devotional featuring wise counsel found in Scripture.
"Stay away from a foolish man,for you will not find knowledge on his lips."
A daily passage of Scripture emphasizing praise to our God.
"All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles....."
A devotional to help reclaim Jesus as the daily Lord of our lives.
"Dear Child of God, What is your greatest need? Seems like a simple question, doesn't it? But when you look deeper, the events in the verses below..."

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.