The Ten Plagues – Exodus 6:28-11:10

Saying “no” to God

Yesterday we read about Moses, and although he was reluctant, Moses eventually said “Yes, Lord, Yes.”

Today, we learn about Pharaoh, who not only consistently said “no” to God, but whose heart became increasingly hardened through the process.  In addition, we discover that though Pharaoh occasionally relented and said, “yes,” he quickly changed his mind and became even more rebellious against God.

When you compare Moses and Pharaoh, you realize that obedience is a process.  It took practice for Moses to get to the point where he could not only say, “yes,” but could actually obey and confront Pharaoh.  At the same time, we see Pharaoh growing more and more disobedient, shaking his fist at God until the horrific consequences are finally applied.

As a result of the fall, none of us are predisposed to faithful obedience… we have to learn it.  With every decision we make, we’re either becoming more or less obedient to God.  If we desire to have the faith of Abraham or Moses, then we must be willing to practice faithful obedience with each moment and each day.