1. The Martyrdom of James — The Price of Following Jesus: Remember the Lord asked James and John in Mark 10: 38-39, “‘Can you drink the cup I drink or be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?’ ‘We can,’ they answered. Jesus said to them, ‘You will drink the cup I drink and be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with’”; the Lord’s prophecy and the disciples’ promise was now fulfilled. Follow Jesus wholeheartedly though the journey may be rough.

2. The Deliverance of Peter — The Power of Prayer: Why God allowed James to be martyred yet delivered Peter is a mystery; yet, the power of corporate prayer is evident. It is ironic that those who prayed did not even believed that their prayer came true (v.15). Believe in the power of prayer and start praying earnestly.

3. The Death of Herod — The Penalty of the Ungodly: Herod was struck dead not because he martyred James, but because he did not praise God and “robbed” God’s glory (v.23). Honor God in every aspect of our life and give Him the honor and glory that due His name (Ps. 29:2; 96:8).  

4. Your own insight: (fill in yourself)

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Meditation and Application:

1. Is there anything in your life that you need to give up in order to follow Him wholeheartedly? Try listing those things down and commit them to the Lord.

2. What are some of the worries and concerns that you have recently? Commit them to the Lord in prayer and trust that God will grant you the best answer according to His good will.

3. In what ways have you been robbing God of His honor? Confess to the Lord and “ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name” (Ps. 29:2; 96:8)!