How should believers respond when encountering resistance to God's commands today? Exodus 5:2 in Focus “But Pharaoh replied, ‘Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice and let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, and I will not let Israel go.’” Setting the Scene Pharaoh hears God’s clear command—“Let My people go”—yet he digs in his heels. That ancient moment mirrors what believers meet today when bosses, governments, friends, or even family push back against God’s Word. What Resistance Looks Like Now • Outright denial: “Who is God to tell me what to do?” • Delay tactics: “Maybe later—this isn’t the right season.” • Distortion of truth: “God surely didn’t mean it that way.” • Intimidation: “Obeying God will cost you—jobs, relationships, security.” Key Principles for Our Response 1. Remember resistance is normal • “Indeed, all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.” (2 Timothy 3:12) 2. Stand on God’s revealed authority • Moses based every plea on “Thus says the LORD” (Exodus 5:1). • “So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.” (1 Corinthians 4:1) 3. Obey God rather than people • “We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29) • No compromise, even when the culture scoffs. 4. Speak truth with courage and humility • “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season.” (2 Timothy 4:2) • “Always be prepared to give a defense…with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15) 5. Persevere in faith, trusting God’s timing • Moses faced repeated “no’s,” yet God’s plan never wavered. • “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15:58) 6. Equip yourself with spiritual armor • “Put on the full armor of God.” (Ephesians 6:11–18) • Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, Word, prayer—each piece counters modern Pharaonic pushback. Practical Steps for Today • Start each day in Scripture; let God’s voice drown out opposing voices. • Pray for boldness like the early church (Acts 4:29–31). • Choose obedience in small matters; it builds muscle for larger tests. • Seek fellowship—resistance feels heavier when you stand alone (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Keep eternal perspective: temporary troubles, eternal rewards (2 Corinthians 4:17). Encouragement from Christ’s Example Jesus encountered the ultimate resistance—rejection, cross, tomb—yet rose in victory. Because He triumphed, His followers can face modern Pharaohs with calm assurance: God finishes what He starts (Philippians 1:6). Conclusion When resistance comes, take Pharaoh’s scoff as a cue, not for retreat, but for unwavering, humble obedience. God’s command is unchanging; His power is unmatched; His purposes never fail. |
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