So Moses and Aaron went in to Pharaoh and said to him, "Thus says the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, 'How long will you refuse to humble yourself before me?["] Exodus 10:3
I pause my study of John and focus on preparation for leading small group time as we unpack Exodus 7:8-11:10 as Moses and Aaron are sent by God to confront Pharaoh to deliver the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: The Lord worked through Moses and Aaron, doing what He said He would do - giving them the words to say and working miracles through them. The Lord also shared in advance (7:3-4) that despite God's miracles, Pharaoh's heart would remain hardened - God is faithful. God also works through Pharaoh's magicians (7:22, 8:7) to produce the same miracles - God has providence over false gods and evil influences - including Satan. God responds to prayers (8:30, 9:27-33).
- What do we learn from the text about people?: Moses and Aaron did as God directed them - obedience. Miracles are not enough for some to believe in God and to put their faith in Him - their own desires and needs are put above those of God. This is so even after plague 3 (gnats) where even Pharaoh's magicians share that "this is the finger of God" (8:19). Even after allowing the Israelites to go into the wilderness (not far) to sacrifice to God (as he recognizes some role of God in these miracles at this point) and the flies (fourth plague) are removed after Moses prayer, Pharaoh's heart is still hardened. This pattern repeats through the first nine plagues. Hardness of heart grows progressively worse for those who resist Him. Often it takes a significant humbling experience to bring someone to their knees to acknowledge and believe in God.
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid hardness of heart and take the time to know God through study of His Word and prayer. Claim the promise that God reigns over all - including Satan - and still cares and loves each one of us individually and seeks to save us. Follow the example of Moses and Aaron and their obedience and service to God. Humble yourself before the Lord (10:3).
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God that loves and saves! Thank You for softening my heart and saving me. I am not deserving of such blessings. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
