How can we recognize God's work in our lives, as in Exodus 8:19? The Scene in Exodus 8:19 “Then the magicians said to Pharaoh, ‘This is the finger of God.’” • Egypt’s court sorcerers could imitate earlier signs, but the sudden plague of gnats exposed their limits. • The result: even hardened pagans acknowledged a power unmistakably divine. Why the Magicians Knew It Was God • The wonder surpassed human skill—no sleight of hand could produce life from dust. • It matched the exact word Moses had spoken; God’s revealed message and His act were inseparable. • The plague furthered God’s moral purpose—humbling Egypt’s idols and exalting His own name (Exodus 12:12). • The event evoked awe, not entertainment; true divine acts confront the heart (Exodus 9:27). Timeless Markers of God’s Work • Harmony with Scripture: “To the law and to the testimony! If they do not speak according to this word, they have no light of dawn.” (Isaiah 8:20) • Exaltation of Christ: the Spirit “will glorify Me.” (John 16:14) • Truth and purity: “Wisdom from above is… peace-loving, gentle, open to reason.” (James 3:17) • Power beyond natural explanation: “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more…” (Ephesians 3:20) • Life-giving results: “I came that they may have life and have it in all its fullness.” (John 10:10) • Lasting fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace… (Galatians 5:22-23) • Redirected praise: “Not to us, LORD, not to us, but to Your name be the glory.” (Psalm 115:1) Practical Ways to Discern His Fingerprints Today 1. Immerse yourself in the Word; it is the fixed reference point (Psalm 119:105). 2. Ask for wisdom; God gives generously (James 1:5). 3. Trace providence—doors opened, hearts changed, timing orchestrated (Romans 8:28). 4. Test everything in community; counsel guards against deception (Proverbs 15:22). 5. Examine motives and outcomes: does this lead to holiness and honor God? (1 Corinthians 10:31). Living in Response to What You See • Thank Him promptly when His hand is evident (Psalm 103:2). • Share testimonies; others’ faith is strengthened (Psalm 71:15). • Align obedience with revelation—Pharaoh resisted and suffered, but those who yield find blessing (Exodus 9:20-21). • Stay expectant; the same Almighty who acted in Goshen is at work in every surrendered life today (Hebrews 13:8). |
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