Unstoppable! 'Jealousy and Hostility' — Acts 17:5

Saturday, August 29, 2026

But some of the Jews were jealous [of Paul's message and success], so they gathered some troublemakers from the marketplace to form a mob and start a riot. They attacked the home of Jason, searching for Paul and Silas so they could drag them out to the crowd.

— Acts 17:5 NLT

Key Thought

The Jewish leader's jealousy of Jesus' message and success at winning the hearts of the people led them to murder the Lord on the cross. They didn't realize what was happening at the time, but they were accomplishing God's work that would allow Jesus to win the hearts of people for centuries. Paul and Silas faced similar jealousy in Thessalonica. A new believer, Jason, was caught in the middle of the mess. Despite the hostility, jealousy, and resentment, Jesus' disciples continued to grow, and his new body of believers fortified themselves in faith despite being persecuted. The faithfulness of these early disciples is our reminder that hard times do not have to destroy our faith; instead, hard times and persecution can strengthen our faith as fire can strengthen iron and carbon to make steel. Our commitment must focus on being faithful while trusting in the Lord's deliverance.

Today's Prayer

Father, may our hard times only strengthen our faith as we resolve to live for you no matter what circumstances we face. We believe that you are our unstoppable God, the God of deliverance for your people and all who seek you. We thank you for your grace. We praise you for your liberation of your people through the centuries. We wait with faith and resolve to see you act in our time as you did in previous times. We praise you as the Lord, who was and is and is to come. In Jesus' name, we live to honor and praise you. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

Have thoughts on this devotional? Leave a comment

1 Related Resource by Heartlight

In the Center of My Will
Devo: A Year with Jesus
"Dear Follower of the Way, The growth of My Kingdom will not necessarily be an easy undertaking. Spreading the good news of the Father's grace is..."

Illustration

Illustration of Acts 17:5 NLT — But some of the Jews were jealous [of Paul's message and success], so they gathered some troublemakers from the marketplace to form a mob and start a riot. They attacked the home of Jason, searching for Paul and Silas so they could drag them out to the crowd.

Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Saturday, August 29, 2026

Praying with Paul
Features the apostle Paul's writings turned into daily, powerful prayers.
'Stewardship' (1 Co. 4:1-4)
"Dear Father, judge of all mankind, Help me be a profitable slave to you and good steward of your mysteries. As a steward may I be found trustworthy....."
Today's Verse
A daily devotional featuring a Bible verse, thought and prayer.
Psalm 62:7
"My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge."
Passion for Praise
A daily passage of Scripture emphasizing praise to our God.
'Where Do I Put My Hope?' (Ps. 39:7-8)
"And so, Lord, where do I put my hope? My only hope is in you. Rescue me from my rebellion. Do not let fools mock me."
Spiritual Warfare
A daily devotional about God's power for our battles.
'God Rejects Your Worship Until You Reconcile'
"So when you offer your gift to God at the altar, and you remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there at 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.

More Unstoppable!