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

A daily devotional featuring a Bible verse, thought and prayer.
"We know him who said, "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," and again, "The Lord will judge his people." It is a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of the..."
A daily passage of Scripture emphasizing praise to our God.
"Let all that I am praise the Lord. O Lord my God, how great you are! ... You made the moon to mark the seasons and the sun knows when to set. You send..."
A daily dose of Christian quotes to inspire and encourage.
"Sin will take you farther than you want to go, keep you longer than you want to stay, and cost you more than you want to pay."
Features the apostle Paul's writings turned into daily, powerful prayers.
"Dear Father, my trustworthy God, Give me faith like Moses, who loved your way more than the treasures of Egypt. Give me faith like the people of the...."

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.