What practical steps can we take to recognize God's authority in our lives? A Seven-Day Reminder of Who Rules “Seven days passed after the LORD had struck the Nile.” – Exodus 7:25 Pharaoh had watched the Nile—his nation’s lifeline—turn to blood. For an entire week nothing flowed but death. Those silent, stinking days shouted one truth: God alone calls the shots. How can we learn from that scene and recognize His authority in our own lives? Noticing the Signals God Sends • God speaks through decisive acts. – Exodus 7 shows that nature itself bends to His will. – Psalm 29:10: “The LORD sits enthroned over the flood.” • He also speaks through smaller providences—doors that open, doors that close, blessings, restraints (Proverbs 16:9). • Practical step: Journal both the monumental and the mundane moments when circumstances clearly exceeded your control. The pattern will point to a sovereign hand. Taking Divine Warnings Seriously • Pharaoh shrugged off Moses’ warning; the Nile bled for seven days. • Hebrews 3:15: “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.” • Practical step: When Scripture, a sermon, or a trusted believer confronts you, pause and respond the same day—before a week of unnecessary discipline sets in. Accepting God’s Timetable • The plague lasted “seven days.” God chose the length, not Pharaoh. • Ecclesiastes 3:1: God appoints times and seasons. • Practical step: Instead of resenting delays or limitations, treat them as scheduled lessons. Pray, “What are You teaching me during this ‘seven-day’ stretch?” Submitting Early, Not Eventually • Each plague grew harsher because Pharaoh delayed obedience. • James 4:7: “Submit yourselves therefore to God.” • Practical step: Make obedience your first reflex. When Scripture commands, act before feelings catch up. Fast obedience often spares you from painful persuasion. Letting the Word Define Reality • Israel’s elders believed Moses because God’s words matched His actions (Exodus 4:31). • John 17:17: “Your word is truth.” • Practical step: Begin every decision with, “What does the Bible already say about this?” Let written revelation outrank opinions, trends, or emotions. Living Continually Aware of His Authority Daily checkpoints: 1. Start mornings declaring, “You are Lord of this day” (Psalm 118:24). 2. Interrogate anxieties: “Does this worry imply God is not in charge?” (Philippians 4:6-7). 3. End evenings recounting where you saw His hand, even in corrections (Hebrews 12:11). When seven silent days roll by in your life—a stalled dream, an unexpected hardship—remember the Nile. Behind the circumstance stands a sovereign God inviting swift recognition, humble submission, and trusting obedience. |
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