Scripture to Read: Exodus 7:14–25
We focus on the next nine plagues God sent upon the land of Egypt this week. As a reminder, Pharaoh’s heart was hardened and calloused before God began to use Moses and Aaron in Pharaoh's life to free the nation of Israel. So, as God worked, the condition of Pharaoh’s heart continued to harden rather than soften. God told Moses, in Exodus 7:14, “Pharaoh’s heart is stubborn; he refuses to let the people go.” God reminded Moses that he had to deal with a very stubborn, hardened, and calloused man. God never changed His plan to fit Pharaoh's heart, but rather God continued to work miraculously to show Pharaoh, the Egyptians, and all of the nation of Israel that He is the One True God, and there is no other god besides Him. The first plague God sent on Egypt was turning the water into blood. According to Exodus 7:19, the water included Egypt's rivers, streams, pools, and reservoirs. There was blood throughout all the land, even in vessels of wood and stone. The water turning to blood not only affected the Egyptians but also the entire nation of Israel. God was also revealing to Israel Who He was since they had become hardened toward Moses and Aaron. Satan and the demonic forces of wickedness also have power, for “the magicians of Egypt did the same with their secret arts.” (Exodus 7:22). Pharaoh’s heart hardened only more, and he refused to listen to Moses and Aaron. We must continually guard our hearts against being hardened toward God (1 Thessalonians 5:19).
Challenge & Application
· What kind of trials has God allowed you to face to grow your faith in Him?
· How do you normally respond to the tests and trials of life, and how should you respond? (See James 1:2–4 for help.)
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!