How can Exodus 7:13 inspire us to pray for those resistant to God's will? Seeing the Hardened Heart Clearly “Still, Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he would not listen to them, just as the LORD had said.” (Exodus 7:13) Why Pharaoh’s Example Motivates Intercessory Prayer • A stubborn ruler could not derail God’s plan; the Lord kept pressing through Moses and Aaron. • God foreknew the resistance (“just as the LORD had said”), reminding us He is never surprised by hardened hearts we encounter. • Because God alone can soften stone‐hard hearts, the account urges us to partner with Him in prayer rather than despair over people’s refusal. Practical Ways to Pray for Resistant Hearts • Praise God for His absolute authority—He turns hearts “where He pleases” (Proverbs 21:1). • Ask the Father to replace hearts of stone with hearts of flesh (Ezekiel 36:26). • Plead for the blindness over minds to be lifted (2 Corinthians 4:4). • Pray that God’s kindness will lead them to repentance (Romans 2:4). • Intercede for leaders specifically, following the pattern of 1 Timothy 2:1-4, that they might come to the knowledge of the truth. • Thank God in advance, trusting that even fierce opposition can become powerful testimony—as with Saul of Tarsus (Acts 9:15). Scriptures to Fuel Our Prayers • 1 Timothy 2:1-4 — calls us to pray for all, including authorities. • Ezekiel 36:26 — God promises a new, tender heart. • Proverbs 21:1 — the Lord directs rulers’ hearts. • 2 Corinthians 4:4 — identifies the spiritual blindness we’re battling. • Acts 9:1-19 — showcases God’s power to transform the fiercest opponent. |
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