Then the Lord Said...

Ex. 7-9

The words, "And the Lord said to Moses..." are repeated numerous times in these chapters. In fact Moses and Aaron did nothing apart from the Lord speaking to them. He was the prime director who gave the prime directives. He did not just give them ideas, but gave them the exact words to speak. This process established Moses as "God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron shall be your prophet." The obedience of Moses was not just in words but in actions. Every time God spoke to Moses, the passage says that Moses and Aaron did as the Lord commanded. This is obedience! When my words are the words of God and my actions are in accordance with those words, then I am obedient!

The actions and attitudes of Pharaoh are equally notable in this passage. He refused to listen, heed, or do as the Lord asked. The passage says that the Lord hardened his heart. In fact, Moses knew from the get-go that Pharaoh's heart would be hardened. Yet, he was to go and give him the words of God. Why? Perhaps God  wanted to demonstrate how He can use an evil person and nation for His bidding, or perhaps He was demonstrating how a sovereign God has orchestrated all that transpires in the world. And perhaps, I am not to know the real reason because His thoughts and ways are not mine. But I do know that He is sovereign and His will and purpose will happen without a hitch.

Father,

Graft Your words deep in my spirit and transform my heart to one of instant obedience. Soften and mold me to be Your willing and obedient servant.

In Jesus name,

Amen