What lessons can we learn about obedience from God's command to Moses in Exodus 10:1? Setting the Scene Pharaoh has repeatedly hardened his heart against the LORD’s commands delivered through Moses. The ninth plague is imminent, yet God instructs Moses to confront Pharaoh once more. Key Verse “Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘Go in to Pharaoh, for I have hardened his heart and the hearts of his servants, so that I may perform these signs of Mine among them.’” (Exodus 10:1) Observations on Obedience • God gives a clear command: “Go in to Pharaoh.” • The command comes even though Pharaoh’s heart is hardened—obedience is required despite apparent futility. • God reveals His purpose up front: to showcase His power through signs. • Moses’ role is to act; God’s role is to achieve the outcome. Lessons Learned • Obedience is unconditional. We obey because God speaks, not because circumstances look promising (Acts 5:29). • God’s sovereignty does not negate human responsibility. Though He hardened Pharaoh’s heart, Moses still had to move in faith (Philippians 2:13). • Results belong to God. Moses could not soften Pharaoh; he merely delivered God’s word (Isaiah 55:11). • Persistent obedience builds testimony. Each return to Pharaoh added to the unfolding revelation of God’s glory (Romans 9:17). • Obedience often positions us for witnessing miracles we would otherwise miss (John 2:5–11). Supporting Scriptures • 1 Samuel 15:22 — “To obey is better than sacrifice.” • Luke 5:5 — “Master, we toiled all night… but at Your word I will let down the nets.” • John 14:15 — “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • Hebrews 11:27 — “By faith Moses left Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger; he persevered because he saw Him who is invisible.” Personal Application • When God’s instruction clashes with visible obstacles, choose obedience first. • Measure success by faithfulness, not immediate results. • Expect God’s greater purposes to unfold beyond what you can see. • Cultivate a habit of saying yes to God quickly; delay breeds doubt. • Record answered obedience to strengthen future trust. Summary Takeaways Obedience to God’s word is prompt, unconditional, and rooted in trust that He is accomplishing His purposes—even when hearts around us seem immovable. Our role mirrors Moses’: hear, go, speak, and leave the results in the Lord’s sovereign hands. |