Exodus 8:8 Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, “Pray to the LORD to take the frogs away from me and my people, and I will let your people go to offer sacrifices to the LORD.”
As I first read through Exodus 8 this morning, I thought how similar my attitude sometimes is to Pharaoh, bargaining that if whatever is plaguing me would only stop, I would live as God wanted. And while there was certainly some of that in my relationship with my Savior when I was younger, I realized with clarity that that is absolutely no longer the case. At this point in my life, I strive in all things to grow closer to God. I’m not always as successful as I’d like, but that goal is always present.
Exodus 8:15 But when Pharaoh saw there was relief, he hardened his heart and would not listen to Moses and Aaron, just as the LORD had said.
My church did a series of weekly devotions during November. Many if them urged us to pay attention to certain details of our walk with Christ, not judging, just noticing. I’ve noticed through that experience and through my walk through Genesis and Exodus thus far that I’m still trying to take the reigns, to maintain control. That propensity still leads me to anger, fear, and bitterness. Jesus, Help me.
Exodus 8:19b …But Pharaoh’s heart was hard and he would not listen, just as the LORD had said.
Lord, Thank You for this day, for this scripture, for this reminder that I have grown in my walk with you, that I am not the same person I once was. Thank You for seeing my heart, for understanding my motivation—a deep desire to grow closer to You. Help me to give You my propensity for trying to take control. Help me to give up anger, fear, and bitterness, so that I can wrap myself fully in Your peace. Draw me closer. Amen.
Exodus 8:32 But this time also Pharaoh hardened his heart and would not let the people go.
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.