What can we learn about obedience to God from Pharaoh's example in Exodus 9:7? Setting the Scene Exodus 9 chronicles the fifth plague: a devastating pestilence on Egypt’s livestock. God explicitly promises Israel’s herds will remain untouched (Exodus 9:4). Verse 7 records Pharaoh’s investigation and his reaction once that promise proves true. Key Verse “Pharaoh sent men to investigate, and behold, not one of the livestock of the Israelites had died. Yet Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he would not let the people go.” (Exodus 9:7) What Pharaoh Saw • A clear, verifiable miracle—Egyptian livestock dead, Israelite livestock alive • Undeniable confirmation that the LORD’s word is precise and unstoppable • Direct evidence that should have compelled humble surrender Pharaoh’s Response • He gathers facts but resists the obvious conclusion • His heart grows harder despite increasing light • He chooses rebellion even when obedience would spare further judgment Lessons on Obedience • Knowledge alone never guarantees obedience; a submissive heart is essential (James 1:22) • Delayed obedience quickly becomes disobedience (Hebrews 3:15) • Repeated rejection of God’s commands leads to a progressively calloused heart (Romans 1:21; Proverbs 29:1) • God’s warnings are acts of mercy meant to turn hearts before harsher discipline falls • True obedience flows from acknowledging God’s authority, not merely admiring His power (Acts 5:29) Supporting Scriptures • 1 Samuel 15:22 – “To obey is better than sacrifice.” • Psalm 95:8 – “Do not harden your hearts.” • Matthew 7:26 – Hearing without doing equals building on sand. • John 14:15 – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” Personal Takeaways • Immediate, wholehearted obedience guards against spiritual hardening. • Investigating God’s works should lead to adoration, not analysis-paralysis. • Each confirmed promise of God invites a fresh step of trust. • Obedience protects from the cascading consequences of stubbornness. |
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