How should Exodus 8:32 influence our prayers for those resistant to God's will? The verse in focus “But Pharaoh hardened his heart this time also and did not let the people go.” (Exodus 8:32) What we observe in Pharaoh • He repeatedly sees God’s power, yet chooses resistance. • His hardened heart blocks mercy that was still available. • God’s judgments intensify, but Pharaoh grows more stubborn, not less. What this teaches about the human heart • Self–hardening is real; people can keep shutting the door on God (Proverbs 28:14). • Persistent refusal can become settled rebellion (Hebrews 3:13). • Only the Spirit can replace a heart of stone with a heart of flesh (Ezekiel 36:26). How Exodus 8:32 shapes our intercession • Pray with sober realism—some will resist even clear evidence of God. • Pray with humility—apart from grace we would be Pharaoh (Titus 3:3-5). • Pray with hope—God can still overrule hardened hearts for His glory (Romans 9:17-18). • Pray with urgency—each refusal increases danger of deeper hardness (Hebrews 3:15). Specific ways to pray for the resistant – Ask the Spirit to convict of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8). – Plead for eyes to be opened and veil removed (2 Corinthians 4:4; Acts 26:18). – Request a divine gift of repentance leading to truth (2 Timothy 2:25-26). – Intercede for a new heart and new spirit (Ezekiel 36:26-27). – Pray God uses circumstances—blessings or trials—to humble them (Exodus 9:16; Luke 15:14-17). – Bind the influence of the evil one who snatches the word away (Mark 4:15). – Stand in their place, confessing sin and asking mercy, as Moses did (Exodus 32:31-32). – Persevere, trusting that persistent prayer can outlast persistent rebellion (Luke 18:1-8). Encouragement for intercessors • God “is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish” (2 Peter 3:9). • Even the hardest heart can become a living testimony, like Saul of Tarsus (Acts 26:14-18). • Our role is faithful pleading; God’s role is heart surgery—keep sowing, watering, and watching Him bring the increase (1 Corinthians 3:6). |
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