Exodus 10-6.2.2021
Scripture
Exodus 10:7, 27-29
Pharaoh’s officials said to him, “How long will this man be a snare to us? Let the people go, so that they may worship the Lord their God. Do you not yet realize that Egypt is ruined?”... But the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he was not willing to let them go. Pharaoh said to Moses, “Get out of my sight! Make sure you do not appear before me again! The day you see my face you will die.” “Just as you say,” Moses replied. “I will never appear before you again.”
Observation
Moses and Aaron continue to go before Pharaoh requesting the freedom of the Israelites, and he considers their offer. Yet, after hearing that they require the freedom of every Israelite he reconsiders again and denies their request, even after his advisors tell him otherwise. Then the Egyptians suffer from a plague of locusts and of darkness for three days.
Understanding
I remember learning about this Bible story in Sunday school and remembering it so clearly because I loved this lesson. However, two things from this story that I did not remember: 1) I didn’t know that Pharaoh actually considered their offer and 2) I didn’t know that Pharaoh’s advisors told him to let the Israelites go. Which brings me to my understanding today: sometimes our most trusted advisors have the best advice. I know what you are thinking: WELL DUH! But think about it for just a moment, put yourself in Pharaoh’s shoes. He had become so attached to the situation that he turned to those around him for advice, and they tell him to him pretty straight. He then decides “you know what maybe I’ll let some of them free,” and when Moses and Aaron want all of them free, he goes back to his Pharaoh ways and denies them freedom. His advisors probably hate him, and because of his unwillingness to perhaps listen to his those around him every one else had to suffer as well.
I can think of many times I was so connected to a certain situation that I turned to those around me, and they gave me some trusted and solid advice. It was then up to me to actually listen to those placed around me. As harsh as this sounds: there is no point in asking for guidance from trusted friends if you aren’t going to take said advice. Pharaoh gets what he wants for a brief moment, but then suffers the most in the end.
Life Application
What’s the last thing that God told you that was confirmed by a trusted friend that you haven’t done yet? Don’t trade instant relief for long-term heartache. Pharaoh had it all, until he didn’t… I don’t want to spoil the story if you’ve never read it but I mean God’s Chosen People kind of have the upper hand. And we as God’s children now have it too, but we have to be willing to take advice when necessary.
-Allison Khan