Day 34

Read: Exodus 7:14 – 9:35

Today we read about the first seven plagues that God unleashes upon Egypt. There are ten plagues total but let’s focus on what we read today.

Plagues:
1. Blood – significant because the Nile is central to Egyptians and their numerous gods. Turning their river of “life” into a river of “death” instead. It also served as a punishment for killing Israelite babies.
2. Frogs – significant because frogs were associated with fertility in Egypt. God turned something beautiful into something to cause disgust. It also serves as an ironic punishment for the Egyptians attempts to prevent the increase of God’s people.
3. Gnats – significant because Pharaoh received no warning AND his magicians could not imitate it and correctly understood God had sent it. Now Pharaoh rejected the warning of his own advisors.
4. Flies – significant because God distinguished His people, demonstrating He is sovereign even in Egypt.
5. Livestock – significant because Pharaoh once again prevented the Israelites from leaving to sacrifice to the Lord. This was the first plague to cause loss of personal property.
6. Boils – significant because the Egyptians AND magicians experienced firsthand the Lord’s power over the physical health of people and animals.
7. Hail – significant because the series of plagues continue to intensify and for the first time human life was at stake. God showed that He could have destroyed Pharaoh at any time. Pharaoh even admits that he was wrong and promised to let the Israelites go, but his heart was still hardened and he rebelled again after the storm ended.

The plagues were not just punishments, but revelations of God’s supreme power over all things.

Pharaoh’s heart became “hardened” against God, a self-inflicted blindness driven by pride.
How often, when faced with trials or warnings, do we become stubborn rather than turning to God?

During the 3rd and 6th plague that we read about today, God made a distinction between Egypt and His people. Even when surrounded by turmoil, God cares for and protects those who trust in Him.
How can knowing this comfort you today?

Are there areas in my life where I am hardening my heart to God’s direction, relying on my own strength like Pharaoh?

Do I recognize God’s power in my life only during times of crisis, or do I trust Him in the calm?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, forgive me for my stubbornness and pride. Help me to stop trusting my own understanding and instead submit to Your will. I acknowledge that You are the only true God, sovereign over my life, my circumstances, and all of creation. Give me a tender, responsive heart that hears Your voice and obeys. In Jesus’ name, Amen.