How should believers respond to God's authority as shown in Exodus 9:6? Scripture Focus: Exodus 9:6 “And the next day the LORD did just that. All the livestock of the Egyptians died, but not one animal belonging to the Israelites died.” God’s Authority Displayed - The LORD issues a decree and it happens exactly “the next day.” - Judgment falls selectively: Egyptian livestock perish, Israelite livestock remain untouched. - Creation itself responds to the Creator, underscoring His unmatched sovereignty. Key Truths Revealed About God’s Authority - His word is precise and unfailing. - He rules over life and death; livestock live or die at His command. - He distinguishes between those under judgment and those under covenant protection. - His actions validate earlier warnings (Exodus 9:1–5), proving He does not speak in vain. How Believers Should Respond - Reverent Fear: Honor His power that can strike or spare in a moment (Hebrews 12:28–29). - Prompt Obedience: Submit to His instructions without delay, just as the plague came without delay (Psalm 119:60). - Trust in His Protection: Rest in His faithfulness to safeguard His people even amid surrounding judgment (Psalm 91:7–10). - Worship and Gratitude: Acknowledge His righteous judgments and covenant mercy (Psalm 145:17). - Witness to Others: Testify that the Lord alone wields ultimate authority (Acts 4:19–20). Living It Out Each Day - Start each morning by reading a portion of Scripture and consciously submitting plans to His lordship. - When making decisions, ask, “Does this align with God’s revealed commands?”—then act immediately. - Journal instances where God’s protection or provision was evident, reinforcing trust in His sovereignty. - Set aside regular time for praise, recounting specific attributes of God’s authority and faithfulness. - Engage in acts of mercy and evangelism, demonstrating confidence that God is ultimately in control of outcomes. Strengthened by Related Scriptures - Psalm 115:3 — “Our God is in heaven; He does whatever pleases Him.” - Job 42:2 — “I know that You can do all things and that no purpose of Yours can be thwarted.” - Romans 9:18 — “So then, He has mercy on whom He wants to have mercy, and He hardens whom He wants to harden.” - Proverbs 3:5–6 — “Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” - 1 Peter 5:6 — “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may exalt you in due time.” By taking these truths to heart, believers honor God’s absolute authority revealed in Exodus 9:6 and live confidently under His sovereign care. |
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