What does the removal of locusts reveal about God's power and mercy? Setting the Scene Exodus 10:19: “And the LORD turned a very strong west wind which lifted the locusts and drove them into the Red Sea. Not a single locust remained in all the land of Egypt.” God’s Absolute Power Displayed • Creation obeys its Creator. The same God who summoned the swarm (10:13) commands the wind to remove it. • This reversal happens “in a moment” (cf. Psalm 33:9), proving that plagues were not random natural disasters but deliberate acts under God’s control. • The text stresses completeness—“not a single locust remained.” Total eradication highlights unlimited authority (Job 38:34-41). • God rules both the insects and the wind (Psalm 148:8). He does not merely influence nature; He directs it precisely. Mercy in the Midst of Judgment • The plague ended immediately after Moses prayed (10:18). Mercy follows intercession, foreshadowing the mediating work of Christ (1 Timothy 2:5). • Although Pharaoh’s heart stayed hard, God still spared Egypt from starvation-level devastation. Mercy is extended even to rebels (Matthew 5:45). • Removing the locusts gave Egypt another opportunity to repent before the next judgment—clear evidence that God “is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish” (2 Peter 3:9). • Contrast: earlier plagues also ended through divine mercy (Exodus 8:31; 9:33). Pattern shows that mercy is woven into every act of discipline. Why Wind? • Wind is a recurring tool of deliverance: – Exodus 14:21—east wind parts the Red Sea for Israel. – Numbers 11:31—wind brings quail for provision. – Acts 2:2—sound “like a rushing mighty wind” heralds the Spirit. • By using wind, God signals that the same element can judge or save, depending on His purpose. Echoes in Later Scripture • Psalm 78:46 recounts locusts as God’s “army,” reinforcing His sovereignty in history. • Joel 2 pictures locusts again, but with a promise: “I will repay you for the years the locusts have eaten” (Joel 2:25). Mercy always follows judgment for those who turn to Him. • Revelation 9:3-5 describes end-time locust-like tormentors, yet even there God limits their harm—another reminder of restrained judgment intertwined with mercy. Lessons for Today • God’s power is limitless; nothing in creation operates outside His command. • Divine mercy often comes through intercession—our prayers matter. • Judgment is purposeful, aiming to lead people to repentance rather than destruction. • Trust the One who can both send and remove the locusts; His character is consistently just and gracious. |
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