What does Exodus 7:20 teach about obedience to God's instructions in difficult situations? Setting the Scene • Israel is enslaved, Pharaoh is hostile, and Moses feels inadequate (Exodus 6:12). • God commands Moses and Aaron to confront Pharaoh and strike the Nile—Egypt’s life-source and idol. • Exodus 7:20: “Moses and Aaron did just as the LORD had commanded; in the presence of Pharaoh and his officials, Aaron raised the staff and struck the waters of the Nile, and all the water was turned to blood.” What the Verse Reveals about Obedience • Immediate: “Did just as” shows no delay or negotiation. • Exact: They followed the instruction down to the location, the staff, and the striking motion. • Public: Obedience happened “in the presence of Pharaoh and his officials,” risking ridicule or retaliation. • Costly: Defying Pharaoh could have meant death, yet they obeyed. Key Principles for Difficult Situations 1. Obedience precedes the miracle – The water turned to blood only after the staff struck the river. See Joshua 3:13; John 2:7-9. 2. God’s commands outweigh human opposition – “We must obey God rather than men” (Acts 5:29); Moses obeyed despite Pharaoh’s power. 3. Obedience demonstrates trust in God’s character – Hebrews 11:27 notes Moses “persevered because he saw Him who is invisible.” 4. God backs faithful obedience with His authority – The staff represented God’s power (Exodus 4:17). When they obeyed, divine authority confronted earthly authority. Supporting Examples from Scripture • Genesis 22:3 – Abraham rose early to obey the command regarding Isaac. • Joshua 6:6 – Joshua relayed God’s unusual battle plan without alteration. • Daniel 3:18 – The three Hebrews obeyed God rather than bow, trusting deliverance or martyrdom. Practical Takeaways • Hear: Stay in God’s Word so His instructions are clear (Psalm 119:105). • Trust: Remember past faithfulness; He will act again (Lamentations 3:22-23). • Act: Step forward even when obedience seems risky; God reveals His power through obedient servants. • Stand: Expect opposition; obedience often exposes idols and challenges worldly authority (2 Timothy 3:12). Encouragement for Today God still calls His people to courageous, precise obedience. When circumstances feel intimidating, Exodus 7:20 assures us that simply doing “just as the LORD commands” releases His power, confounds opposition, and advances His redemptive plan. |
    |