Exodus 8
-The plagues are now under way with three more coming in
this chapter. The first one has to do with the frogs coming onto the land and
into their houses and bedrooms and beds and into their cooking facilities.
Every aspect of their lives was altered by the frogs. The magicians were able
to do the same with their secret arts, but this time Pharaoh called upon Moses
and Aaron to entreat the LORD for the removal of the frogs. Pharaoh said he
would let them go at this point, but when relief was given by the LORD, he
hardened his heart and did not listen to them just as the LORD had said would
happen (Exodus 8:15).
-The swarms of gnats and insects were commanded by the LORD
upon the land. Now it had gotten to the point that the Egyptian magicians could
not duplicate the feats, and they counseled Pharaoh that this was the finger of
God. But Pharaoh’s heart was hardened as predicted, and he did not listen to
them.
-There was also now a division between the Hebrews and the
lands of the Egyptians. Goshen, where the Hebrew people were, was not affected
by the swarms of insects. The LORD gave His people separation from the plight
of His plagues. *Application* God is our protection in adversity. Pray the
prayer that God will have mercy on His servants in this day and age in the
midst of His wrath and judgment on a wicked world.
-Pharaoh is beginning to crack a bit and tells Moses and
Aaron they will be able to go sacrifice to their God in the land of Egypt.
Moses, at the LORD’s direct command, stands firm on the three day’s journey
into the wilderness. *Application* Pharaoh wanted partial obedience from the
Hebrews, but Moses knew what God had commanded and would not back down from it.
When God gives you instructions, don’t compromise at any point. Otherwise, your
partial disobedience is fully a sin against God. He will bless you eventually
when you remain utterly true and faithful. Stick to His Word!
-Pharaoh makes promises to let them go and is asking for
supplication from the prophet, which he got. God did what Moses asked for, but
Pharaoh again spurned the LORD and hardened his heart against Him. He did not
let the people go. *Application* There is something to be said for honesty and
following through with what you promise here. Pharaoh’s word was no good. He
went back on his promise. Do we follow through with people on the things we
tell them we will do for them? Be a person of your word.
Verse to Memorize:
Exodus 8:15
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