Before I started this devotional on Exodus I found the numerous plagues fascinating. Now, having to write about them I find myself saying, "Come on, already! I get it. Pharaoh is stupid. A plague comes, people suffer, Pharaoh begs, Pharaoh makes promise, Pharaoh breaks promise, and the cycle starts again." Just as I'm thinking that though, the Lord reminds us that this is about something bigger. He is creating a story that will be remembered and told forever.
At this point we also see Pharaoh's officials appealing to him and trying to get him to see that his actions are leaving Egypt in ruins. Pharaoh starts to give concessions to the Israelites. First he tells them they can go, but they cannot bring their children. Moses stands his ground, stating they will not leave their children. Pharoah says no. So the plague of locusts comes. Next he says they can go, but they need to leave their livestock. I probably would have taken that deal and ran, I'm not a very good negotiator. But Moses says no. Pharaoh gets angry and kicks them out, telling them that the next time he sees Moses' face he will kill him. Hmmm, what do you think will happen next? Seriously, what did Pharaoh think would happen?
How often do we do that to God though? His Word clearly speaks about actions and consequences yet I know we all have times that we think that we can get away with something if we just refuse to acknowledge the truth. The truth is that our actions, or lack thereof, will catch up to us.
No comments:
Post a Comment