Lessons on obedience from Moses?
What lessons can we learn about obedience from Moses' role in Exodus 11:9?

Setting the Scene

Exodus 11 stands at the threshold of the final plague. Nine devastating judgments have fallen, yet Pharaoh’s heart remains hard. Moses is told exactly how Pharaoh will respond—and that God Himself will use that refusal to display His power.


Key Verse (Exodus 11:9)

“The LORD had said to Moses, ‘Pharaoh will refuse to listen to you, so that My wonders may be multiplied in the land of Egypt.’ ”


Lessons on Obedience from Moses

• Obedience is anchored in God’s word, not in visible results.

– Moses knew beforehand that Pharaoh would “refuse to listen,” yet he still spoke God’s message.

• Obedience cooperates with God’s larger purposes.

– The refusal served “so that My wonders may be multiplied.” Moses’ role was to obey; God’s role was to magnify His glory.

• Obedience persists even when it appears ineffective.

– Nine times already, Moses had warned Pharaoh. Faithfulness is measured by consistency, not by immediate success.

• Obedience is possible because God reveals the outcome.

– The LORD told Moses what would happen, enabling Moses to trust rather than to speculate.

• Obedience positions us as instruments, not architects.

– Moses delivered the message; God delivered the judgment. The servant carries the word; the Master carries the plan.


Digging Deeper through Related Scriptures

Exodus 7:2 – “Speak to Pharaoh… but I will harden Pharaoh’s heart.” Foreknowledge fuels obedience.

1 Samuel 15:22 – “To obey is better than sacrifice.” God values obedience over any alternative religious expression.

Psalm 105:26–27 – “He sent Moses His servant… they performed His wonders.” God credits wonders to the obedient servant.

Luke 5:5 – “Because You say so, I will let down the nets.” Obedience often defies human expectation.

John 14:15 – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” Love and obedience are inseparable.


Putting It into Practice Today

1. Submit to God’s instructions even when outcomes seem discouraging.

2. Measure faithfulness by obedience, not by visible success.

3. Remember that each act of obedience fits into God’s larger redemptive story.

4. Seek clarity from Scripture; God’s revealed word steadies the heart amid uncertain circumstances.

5. Trust that God magnifies His glory through the obedient, even when resistance persists.

How does Exodus 11:9 demonstrate God's sovereignty over Pharaoh's heart and actions?
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