READ EXODUS 7
In the upcoming days, we will explore the account of ten different plagues that afflicted Egypt. As we dive into this narrative, it might be tempting to dismiss it as just another day with yet another plague without truly delving into the underlying meaning of God's actions. Our goal is not just to grasp the sequence of events but also to comprehend the reasons behind them. These forthcoming plagues will pave the way for the Passover story, highlighting God's deliverance of His people.
While reading, you may find yourself shaking your head at Pharaoh, wondering when he will finally pay heed. It is a pertinent inquiry. Through these plagues, God intends to expose Pharaoh's arrogance while affording him numerous opportunities to renounce his wicked ways. Similarly, we too often succumb to our pride and desires, yet God continuously offers us chances for redemption.
As we embark on the examination of the plagues in Exodus 7, we witness God's immense power in action. The narrative unfolds with Moses and Aaron standing before God, receiving instructions, culminating in the Nile River—the Egyptians' revered water source—transformed into blood. Why target the Nile? This initial plague targeted the Egyptian river deities, demonstrating God's supremacy over them and revealing the falsehood of idol worship.
Despite forewarning Moses and Aaron that Pharaoh's heart would harden, one might expect him to repent. However, the text bluntly states that Pharaoh simply retreated to his palace without a change of heart (v 23). Picture Pharaoh's apathy as the river turns to blood—an image illustrating his dismissiveness toward God's signs. Blinded by pride, he remains indifferent to God's work unfolding around him, consumed by his concerns.
When pride takes hold, it creates blind spots, obstructing our view of God's presence as we become self-absorbed and entitled. Proverbs 16:18 aptly warns, "Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." Pharaoh is about to learn a profound lesson about this concept as his heart continues to harden, leading him down a perilous path of defiance.
QUESTIONS
1. What can we learn about the nature of God from this passage?
2. Why does God inform Moses about the events involving the Israelites and Egyptians in advance? Why does He provide detailed instructions?
3. In what areas has your pride created blind spots for you? How has it prevented you from recognizing the works of God that are happening right before your eyes?