What can we learn about obedience from Moses' actions in Exodus 10:22? Setting the Stage “ So Moses stretched out his hand toward the sky, and total darkness covered all the land of Egypt for three days.” (Exodus 10:22) What Moses Actually Did – God commanded, Moses “stretched out his hand.” – No delay, no debate, no improvisation. – The result—supernatural darkness—shows God’s immediate backing of obedient faith. Key Insights About Obedience • Immediate action reveals trust. Moses responded the moment God spoke (cf. Exodus 7:6). • Exact action honors God’s authority. He did precisely what was told, not a variation (Deuteronomy 12:32). • Courageous action overcomes pressure. Standing before Pharaoh carried risk, yet obedience outweighed fear (Hebrews 11:27). • Visible action invites God’s power. The plague depended on Moses’ public act; obedience became the conduit for the miracle (John 14:21). • Consistent action builds testimony. Each plague deepened Pharaoh’s accountability and displayed God’s supremacy through Moses’ repeated obedience (Exodus 9:16). Scripture Connections – 1 Samuel 15:22: “To obey is better than sacrifice,” echoing Moses’ priority. – John 14:15: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments,” mirrored in Moses’ fidelity. – James 2:17: Faith is proven by works; Moses’ lifted hand exemplifies living faith. Take-Home Applications • Obey promptly—delayed compliance is disobedience in slow motion. • Obey precisely—God blesses the details done His way. • Obey bravely—divine backing outweighs human opposition. • Obey consistently—each step of faith prepares for the next. |