january 24...

Exodus 9-10

An Internal Struggle

Although Pharaoh’s heart remained hardened – God is getting through to some of Pharaoh’s officials. Exodus 9:20 tells us that “officials of Pharaoh who feared the word o the LORD hurried to bring their slaves and their livestock inside”.

Finally, even Pharaoh admitted that he was wrong and had sinned and that God was right. He made a promise to God, but then he immediately went back to his old ways. And God’s response? “How long will you refuse to humble yourself before me?”

Pharaoh then began negotiating with God. He wanted to obey God, but on his terms – and the result? Devastation … and, finally, darkness. No sun. No light for THREE days!

The Egyptian god, Ra, was “seen” in the sun and was believed to rule the sky, the earth, and the underworld. Where had their god gone? Had he deserted them? And, why did the Israelites have sunlight? It was obvious – their God was superior to even Ra.

Pharaoh found himself in darkness and he completely shut off communication with God through Moses and Aaron.

The internal struggle is evident. It is a pride issue. It is a faith issue. Pharaoh was prideful and placed his faith in things other than the one, true God. He put himself on the same plane with God and argued with Him, negotiated with Him, refused to humble himself before Him, and ultimately, rejected Him.

This happens even today when we refuse to humble ourselves before Him and allow our hearts to harden. Devastation happens – darkness comes … and when we stop our communication with Him … well, that is a very scary place to be.

Is your heart hard? Pray for Him to soften it.
Are you prideful – wanting to be obedient on your terms? Humble yourself before Him.
Is your world dark? Have you talked to Him lately? Don’t wait. Don’t risk it.
Call on Him right now.

think about it...
ok... put the little kids to bed. here's the tough question: what happened to pharaoe's free will?