Meditation

Meditation: Exodus 8 & 9 (4 of 4)

Reading: Exodus 8:20-24; 8:30-31; 9:22-30

Moses must tell Pharaoh “Let my people go” (Ex 8:20). If Pharaoh refuses, God will send swarms of flies on the Egyptians, but not on the Israelites “in order that you may know that I am the LORD in the midst of the land. … Tomorrow this sign shall be.”

Here are some messages for Pharaoh. First, Pharaoh is shown that God is just and patient. God justly punishes Pharaoh and his people for refusing to obey.  God makes it very clear that He brings vengeance upon those who worship idols. Therefore He adds, “in order that you may know that I am the LORD in the midst of the land.”

Second: After two plagues Pharaoh should understand and obey. But God also shows patience and gives Pharaoh time to repent, so that he might avoid the punishment. God can send the insects immediately; but He patiently leaves it to the next day.

During the plagues the Egyptians cry out to Moses; he pleads with God and the plagues stop. God is not unreasonable; He does not want to completely destroy Egypt. He is patient and heeds their cries; at the same time Egypt is warned that time is running out. But despite God’s patience Pharaoh continues to be stubborn which clearly proves his wickedness.

God is just in all his ways. He does not punish unless there is a good reason and there has been time for repentance. “He is the Rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are justice, a God of truth and without injustice; righteous and upright is He” (Deuteronomy 32:4).

God also demands justice from us. Zechariah 8:16 “These are the things you shall do: Speak each man the truth to his neighbour; give judgment in your gates for truth, justice, and peace”.

Key text: Ex 8:30-31 “So Moses went out from Pharaoh and entreated the LORD. And the LORD did according to the word of Moses; He removed the swarms of flies from Pharaoh, from his servants, and from his people. Not one remained.”

Question: People often say that there is no God because there is so much injustice and misery. How do you reply to such a claim?