2nd February Exodus 8 Frogs, Gnats and Flies
Three more of the plagues of Egypt are related in today’s chapter. After seven days of the water being turned to blood God speaks to Moses again. Aaron, as instructed, stretches out his hand and staff over the waters of Egypt and the plague of frogs ensues. Again the magicians are able to mimic this and although pharaoh says he will let the people go, so Moses believes that pharaoh has humbled his heart, he prays to God and the plague ends. Even though Moses has warned pharaoh not to deceive God, he does exactly that and refuses to let the people go. A pattern is beginning to form. The plague of gnats then follows. However, this time God makes the point that the land of Goshen, which is where the Israelites live, will not be afflicted in the same way. This time the magicians are unable to replicate what God does and they state that this is without doubt the hand of God as Goshen is untouched by the swarms that fill the homes and palaces of the Egyptians. Pharaoh agrees with Moses about the release of Israel, and humbles himself (v. 25-29). The plague is removed (v. 31), but again Pharaoh's heart hardened (v.32).
What strikes me here is that just as God gives pharaoh repeated opportunities to do as He asks, so He does with us today. Whether we simply miss the gentle nudge or the clear instruction to go or do or not go or not do, our God will use our choices for the good of His children. So we can be certain that even if we get it wrong, whether intentionally or unintentionally He will always have His way. Praise God!
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Question:
Can you think of a time in your life where you can see that you were not in God’s will? Maybe by conscious choice or maybe you just didn’t know it was God calling you. Can you see that despite that God still had His way in your life and those around you?
Prayer:
Lord open my eyes and ears so see and hear your will for me and my life. Help me to be obedient to your will and glorify your name. Amen.