Category Archives: Obeying God

All Powerful / King of All, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Holy / Set Apart, Miracles, Miracles, Obeying God, Strong in Our Weakness, Submitted / Servant

Partial Obedience or Set Apart? (Exodus 8:20–32)

Leave a comment

Are you fully obeying God—or trying to meet Him halfway?

Key Verse:
“But on that day I will set apart the land of Goshen, where My people are living, so that no swarms of flies will be there, in order that you may know that I, the LORD, am in the midst of the land.” —Exodus 8:22 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 8:1–19, God continues to demonstrate His authority through the plagues of frogs and gnats. Pharaoh has resisted, delayed, and hardened his heart, even when the evidence of God’s power became undeniable.

Now in Exodus 8:20–32, a new development takes place. God not only brings judgment—He begins to clearly distinguish between His people and Egypt. At the same time, Pharaoh shifts his strategy from resistance to compromise.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 8:20-32

      20Now the LORD said to Moses, “Rise early in the morning and present yourself before Pharaoh, as he comes out to the water, and say to him, ‘Thus says the LORD, “Let My people go, that they may serve Me. 21“For if you do not let My people go, behold, I will send swarms of flies on you and on your servants and on your people and into your houses; and the houses of the Egyptians will be full of swarms of flies, and also the ground on which they dwell. 22“But on that day I will set apart the land of Goshen, where My people are living, so that no swarms of flies will be there, in order that you may know that I, the LORD, am in the midst of the land. 23“I will put a division between My people and your people. Tomorrow this sign will occur.”’” 24Then the LORD did so. And there came great swarms of flies into the house of Pharaoh and the houses of his servants and the land was laid waste because of the swarms of flies in all the land of Egypt.

      25Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron and said, “Go, sacrifice to your God within the land.” 26But Moses said, “It is not right to do so, for we will sacrifice to the LORD our God what is an abomination to the Egyptians. If we sacrifice what is an abomination to the Egyptians before their eyes, will they not then stone us? 27“We must go a three days’ journey into the wilderness and sacrifice to the LORD our God as He commands us.” 28Pharaoh said, “I will let you go, that you may sacrifice to the LORD your God in the wilderness; only you shall not go very far away. Make supplication for me.” 29Then Moses said, “Behold, I am going out from you, and I shall make supplication to the LORD that the swarms of flies may depart from Pharaoh, from his servants, and from his people tomorrow; only do not let Pharaoh deal deceitfully again in not letting the people go to sacrifice to the LORD.”

      30So Moses went out from Pharaoh and made supplication to the LORD. 31The LORD did as Moses asked, and removed the swarms of flies from Pharaoh, from his servants and from his people; not one remained. 32But Pharaoh hardened his heart this time also, and he did not let the people go.

Reflection on Exodus 8:20–32:
God again sends Moses to Pharaoh with the same command: “Let My people go.” The message has not changed, even though Pharaoh has repeatedly refused to listen.

This time, God introduces something new.

He declares that He will set apart the land of Goshen, where the Israelites live. While Egypt will be filled with swarms of flies, God’s people will be protected.

This is a powerful statement.

God is making a clear distinction between those who belong to Him and those who do not. This is not random judgment—it is intentional, controlled, and purposeful.

Through this, God reveals that He is not distant or removed, but actively present and involved.

“I am in the midst of the land.”

The plague comes as described. Egypt is filled with corruption and destruction from the swarms of flies, while Goshen is spared.

At this point, Pharaoh responds differently.

He calls for Moses and Aaron and offers a compromise:

“Go, sacrifice to your God within the land.”

This may sound reasonable at first, but it falls short of God’s command. God had said to let the people go—not to stay in Egypt and worship on Pharaoh’s terms.

This is the beginning of negotiated obedience.

Moses refuses. He explains that obeying Pharaoh’s terms would not align with what God has commanded and would even create further conflict.

Pharaoh then offers a second compromise:

“I will let you go… only you shall not go very far away.”

Again, this is close—but not complete.

This reflects a common spiritual struggle.

Instead of outright rejecting God, Pharaoh attempts to control the terms of obedience. He is willing to allow some form of worship—but only within limits that he defines.

This is often how compromise appears in our own lives.

We may be willing to follow God—but only to a point.
We may obey—but not fully.
We may surrender—but still try to hold onto control.

But God does not call for partial obedience.

He calls for full surrender.

Moses agrees to pray for relief, but he also warns Pharaoh not to deal deceitfully again. God removes the flies, just as He promised.

And once again, Pharaoh hardens his heart.

Even after experiencing both judgment and mercy, he refuses to submit.

This passage highlights two key truths:

God clearly distinguishes those who belong to Him.
God does not accept compromise in obedience.

Pharaoh’s problem was not lack of opportunity—it was refusal to fully surrender.

The same question applies to us:

Are we obeying God fully—or trying to follow Him on our own terms?

Application:

  • Examine areas where you may be compromising instead of fully obeying God.
  • Recognize that God calls for complete obedience, not partial surrender.
  • Trust that being set apart by God is both protection and purpose.
  • Be aware of the temptation to follow God on your own terms.
  • Respond to God with full obedience, not negotiation.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to follow You fully and not hold back areas of my life. Reveal any place where I am compromising or trying to obey on my own terms. Give me the strength to surrender completely to You and trust in Your ways. Thank You for setting Your people apart and for being present in the midst of our lives. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

All Powerful / King of All, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Faith / Trusting God, Miracles, Miracles, Obeying God, Strong in Our Weakness

The Heart Sometimes Ignores Evidence (Exodus 8:16–19)

Leave a comment

What happens when the evidence of God is undeniable—but the heart still refuses to change?

Key Verse:
“Then the magicians said to Pharaoh, ‘This is the finger of God.’ But Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he did not listen to them, as the LORD had said.” —Exodus 8:19 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 7–8:15, God has already demonstrated His authority through the first two plagues—turning the Nile to blood and covering the land with frogs. In both cases, Pharaoh resists, even when he briefly appears to soften.

Now in Exodus 8:16–19, a third plague comes without warning. This time, something changes—the magicians can no longer imitate what God is doing.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 8:16-32

The Plague of Insects

      16Then the LORD said to Moses, “Say to Aaron, ‘Stretch out your staff and strike the dust of the earth, that it may become gnats through all the land of Egypt.’” 17They did so; and Aaron stretched out his hand with his staff, and struck the dust of the earth, and there were gnats on man and beast. All the dust of the earth became gnats through all the land of Egypt. 18The magicians tried with their secret arts to bring forth gnats, but they could not; so there were gnats on man and beast. 19Then the magicians said to Pharaoh, “This is the finger of God.” But Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he did not listen to them, as the LORD had said.

Reflection on Exodus 8:16–19:
Unlike the previous plagues, there is no recorded warning given to Pharaoh before this one. God simply commands Moses to tell Aaron to strike the dust of the earth, and it becomes gnats throughout the land.

This sudden action emphasizes that God is not dependent on human response to act. He is fully in control.

The plague itself is all-encompassing. The dust of the earth—something ordinary and unnoticed—is transformed into a source of irritation and discomfort. What was once insignificant now becomes unavoidable.

Again, we see God demonstrating His authority over creation.

But this time, something different happens.

The magicians attempt to replicate the plague—and fail.

Up to this point, they had been able to imitate the signs to some degree. This may have given Pharaoh justification, in his mind, to dismiss what he was seeing. But now, that illusion is gone.

They come to a clear conclusion:

“This is the finger of God.”

This is a powerful admission.

Those who had previously opposed or imitated now recognize that what is happening is beyond human ability. They acknowledge that this is not trickery, not coincidence, not something they can explain or reproduce.

It is God.

This moment reveals an important truth: it is possible to recognize the reality of God without submitting to Him.

The magicians see it.
They say it.
But Pharaoh still refuses it.

Even with this testimony, Pharaoh’s heart remains hardened.

This is sobering.

Evidence alone does not change a person’s heart. Miracles alone do not produce obedience. Recognition is not the same as surrender.

This passage challenges a common assumption—that if people could just “see proof,” they would believe and follow God.

But Scripture shows otherwise.

Pharaoh has seen multiple signs. He now has confirmation from his own magicians. Yet he still refuses to listen.

Why?

Because the issue is not lack of evidence—it is the condition of the heart.

This leads us to an important reflection for our own lives.

We may acknowledge God.
We may recognize His work.
We may even speak truth about Him.

But the question is—do we submit to Him?

God is not seeking mere recognition. He is calling for obedience and surrender.

The magicians stop resisting. Pharaoh does not.

And that makes all the difference.

Application:

  • Do not confuse recognizing God with truly submitting to Him.
  • Examine your heart—are you responding with obedience or just acknowledgment?
  • Understand that evidence alone does not change the heart—surrender does.
  • Be willing to respond to God when He reveals Himself.
  • Guard against hardening your heart when truth becomes clear.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me not only to recognize You, but to fully submit to You. Soften my heart so that I respond with obedience when You reveal truth. Keep me from becoming hardened or resistant, even when I see clearly what You are doing. Lead me to a life of true surrender and faithfulness. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Fear / Reverence for God, Obeying God, Repenting from Sin, Submitted / Servant

A Hardened Heart (Exodus 8:1-15)

Leave a comment

How many times does God need to get our attention before we truly listen?

Key Verse:
“But Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he did not listen to them, as the LORD had said.” —Exodus 8:15 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 7:14–25, God turns the Nile to blood, striking at the heart of Egypt’s source of life and exposing the weakness of what they trusted. Yet Pharaoh refuses to respond.

Now in Exodus 8:1–15, God sends the next plague—frogs covering the land. This continues the pattern of God revealing His authority while Pharaoh repeatedly hardens his heart.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 8:1-15

Frogs over the Land

      1Then the LORD said to Moses, “Go to Pharaoh and say to him, ‘Thus says the LORD, “Let My people go, that they may serve Me. 2“But if you refuse to let them go, behold, I will smite your whole territory with frogs. 3“The Nile will swarm with frogs, which will come up and go into your house and into your bedroom and on your bed, and into the houses of your servants and on your people, and into your ovens and into your kneading bowls. 4“So the frogs will come up on you and your people and all your servants.”’” 5Then the LORD said to Moses, “Say to Aaron, ‘Stretch out your hand with your staff over the rivers, over the streams and over the pools, and make frogs come up on the land of Egypt.’” 6So Aaron stretched out his hand over the waters of Egypt, and the frogs came up and covered the land of Egypt. 7The magicians did the same with their secret arts, making frogs come up on the land of Egypt.

      8Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron and said, “Entreat the LORD that He remove the frogs from me and from my people; and I will let the people go, that they may sacrifice to the LORD.” 9Moses said to Pharaoh, “The honor is yours to tell me: when shall I entreat for you and your servants and your people, that the frogs be destroyed from you and your houses, that they may be left only in the Nile?”

      10Then he said, “Tomorrow.” So he said, “May it be according to your word, that you may know that there is no one like the LORD our God. 11“The frogs will depart from you and your houses and your servants and your people; they will be left only in the Nile.” 12Then Moses and Aaron went out from Pharaoh, and Moses cried to the LORD concerning the frogs which He had inflicted upon Pharaoh. 13The LORD did according to the word of Moses, and the frogs died out of the houses, the courts, and the fields. 14So they piled them in heaps, and the land became foul. 15But when Pharaoh saw that there was relief, he hardened his heart and did not listen to them, as the LORD had said.

Reflection on Exodus 8:1–15:
God again commands Pharaoh through Moses: “Let My people go.” The message has not changed. God’s requirement is clear, and it is repeated.

When Pharaoh refuses, the plague of frogs begins.

Frogs come up from the Nile and spread everywhere—into houses, bedrooms, kitchens, and even into ovens and kneading bowls. What might seem like a minor inconvenience at first becomes overwhelming and unavoidable.

This is important.

God is not only demonstrating His power—He is making it impossible for Pharaoh to ignore Him. The problem surrounds him, invades his space, and disrupts daily life.

Even the magicians are able to imitate this plague to some degree, but once again, they cannot remove it. They can add to the problem, but they cannot solve it.

Eventually, Pharaoh calls for Moses and Aaron.

This is the first time we see Pharaoh ask for relief.

“Entreat the LORD that He remove the frogs…”

In this moment, Pharaoh appears to soften. He even promises to let the people go.

But something important happens next.

Moses gives Pharaoh the opportunity to choose the timing of the relief.

Pharaoh says, “Tomorrow.”

This is a striking response.

Why wait?

Why endure the plague one more night when relief is available?

This reflects something we often see in ourselves.

We recognize the need for change, but we delay. We know what God is calling us to do, but we put it off—choosing “tomorrow” instead of today.

God answers through Moses, and the frogs die off. The land is relieved.

But once the pressure is gone, Pharaoh’s heart hardens again.

He breaks his promise.

This reveals a critical truth: temporary relief does not produce lasting change.

Pharaoh wanted the consequences removed, but he did not want to submit to God. His response was driven by discomfort, not repentance.

This is a danger we must recognize.

It is possible to cry out to God in moments of difficulty—not because we want to change, but because we want relief. When the situation improves, we may return to the same patterns as before.

God is not just seeking to remove discomfort—He is calling for transformation.

This passage continues the pattern we have been seeing:

God speaks → Pharaoh resists → pressure increases → Pharaoh responds → relief comes → Pharaoh hardens his heart again.

For us, the question is not whether God is speaking—He is.

The question is how we respond.

Do we respond with true repentance and obedience? Or do we only respond when circumstances become uncomfortable?

God’s desire is not temporary compliance, but lasting surrender.

Application:

  • Respond to God when He speaks—do not delay obedience.
  • Examine whether your response to God is driven by discomfort or true repentance.
  • Do not return to old patterns once relief comes.
  • Recognize that God may allow pressure to draw you toward Him.
  • Choose lasting surrender rather than temporary change.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to respond to You with a willing and obedient heart. Keep me from delaying when You call me to change. Reveal any areas where I seek relief more than transformation, and lead me to true repentance. Strengthen my heart to follow You consistently, not just in moments of difficulty. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Depression / Discouragement, Faith / Trusting God, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Obeying God, Patient, Purposeful / Intentional, Strong in Our Weakness, Tribulation

When God Makes You Stand (Exodus 7:1-13)

Leave a comment

What do you do when God calls you to stand firm—but the world refuses to listen?

Key Verse:
“Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘See, I make you as God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron shall be your prophet.’” —Exodus 7:1 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 3–6, God calls Moses, overcomes his objections, and establishes him and Aaron as His chosen servants. Despite their obedience, Pharaoh has already responded with resistance, and the burden on Israel has increased.

Now in Exodus 7:1–13, God begins a new phase. The confrontation between God and Pharaoh becomes direct and unmistakable. This is no longer preparation—this is the beginning of God demonstrating His authority over Egypt and its king.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 7:1-13

“I Will Stretch Out My Hand”

      1Then the LORD said to Moses, “See, I make you as God to Pharaoh, and your brother Aaron shall be your prophet. 2“You shall speak all that I command you, and your brother Aaron shall speak to Pharaoh that he let the sons of Israel go out of his land. 3“But I will harden Pharaoh’s heart that I may multiply My signs and My wonders in the land of Egypt. 4“When Pharaoh does not listen to you, then I will lay My hand on Egypt and bring out My hosts, My people the sons of Israel, from the land of Egypt by great judgments. 5“The Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I stretch out My hand on Egypt and bring out the sons of Israel from their midst.” 6So Moses and Aaron did it; as the LORD commanded them, thus they did. 7Moses was eighty years old and Aaron eighty-three, when they spoke to Pharaoh.

Aaron’s Rod Becomes a Serpent

      8Now the LORD spoke to Moses and Aaron, saying, 9“When Pharaoh speaks to you, saying, ‘Work a miracle,’ then you shall say to Aaron, ‘Take your staff and throw it down before Pharaoh, that it may become a serpent.’” 10So Moses and Aaron came to Pharaoh, and thus they did just as the LORD had commanded; and Aaron threw his staff down before Pharaoh and his servants, and it became a serpent. 11Then Pharaoh also called for the wise men and the sorcerers, and they also, the magicians of Egypt, did the same with their secret arts. 12For each one threw down his staff and they turned into serpents. But Aaron’s staff swallowed up their staffs. 13Yet Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he did not listen to them, as the LORD had said.

Reflection on Exodus 7:1–13:
God begins by redefining Moses’ role. Moses is told he will be “as God” to Pharaoh, with Aaron serving as his prophet. This does not mean Moses is divine, but that he is acting as God’s representative—speaking with His authority.

This is a significant shift.

Moses had been focused on his weakness—his speech, his confidence, his ability. But God redirects the focus entirely. This is not about Moses’ ability. It is about God’s authority working through him.

God then makes something very clear: Pharaoh will not listen.

“I will harden Pharaoh’s heart…”

This is important for understanding obedience. God is not calling Moses to succeed by human standards. He is calling Moses to obey, even when the immediate result is resistance.

This aligns with the pattern we have already seen:

  • God calls
  • Obedience follows
  • Resistance increases

But none of this means God’s plan is failing.

In fact, God reveals that through Pharaoh’s resistance, He will multiply His signs and wonders. What appears to be opposition is actually part of God displaying His power more fully.

Moses and Aaron obey. They do exactly as the LORD commanded.

This simple statement carries great weight. After all the hesitation, doubt, and questions, they now step forward in obedience—not because they feel ready, but because they trust God.

Then comes the first sign before Pharaoh.

Aaron throws down his staff, and it becomes a serpent. This is a direct demonstration of God’s power. However, Pharaoh’s magicians replicate the sign through their secret arts.

This introduces an important tension.

At times, what God does may appear to be imitated or countered by the world. Not everything that looks powerful or supernatural is from God.

But the outcome makes the difference clear.

Aaron’s staff swallows the staffs of the magicians.

God’s power is not equal to the world’s power—it is greater.

Even so, Pharaoh’s heart remains hardened. He refuses to listen, just as God said he would.

This passage teaches us several important truths.

First, obedience is not dependent on immediate results. We are called to speak and act as God directs, even when others resist.

Second, opposition does not mean failure. God often works through resistance to accomplish His greater purposes.

Third, God’s authority is unmatched. What the world imitates, God surpasses.

Finally, we are reminded that being used by God is not about our qualifications, but about our willingness to obey.

Moses once doubted he could even speak. Now he stands before the most powerful ruler in the world as God’s appointed messenger.

The same principle applies to us. When God calls us to speak truth, stand firm, or act in obedience, He is not asking us to rely on our strength—but on His.

Application:

  • Obey God even when you expect resistance.
  • Do not measure success by immediate results.
  • Trust that God’s authority is greater than any opposition.
  • Be discerning—test what you see against God’s truth.
  • Step forward in faith, knowing God equips those He sends.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for calling me to walk in obedience, even when it is difficult. Help me not to be discouraged by resistance, but to trust in Your greater plan. Give me boldness to speak truth and confidence in Your authority. Remind me that it is not my strength, but Yours, that accomplishes Your purposes. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.
John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Depression / Discouragement, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Obeying God, Purposeful / Intentional, Strong in Our Weakness, Submitted / Servant

What Happens After You Say Yes to God (Exodus 4-6)

Have you ever wondered why following God sometimes feels harder after you begin to obey?

Key Verse:
“I will bring you out… I will deliver you… I will redeem you… I will take you for My people…” —Exodus 6:6–7 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 4–6, we see a powerful sequence unfold in the life of Moses and the people of Israel. God calls Moses, overcomes his objections, and sends him to deliver His people. What follows is not immediate success, but a series of challenges that reveal how God works through His people.

This section of Exodus provides more than historical events—it gives us a pattern for understanding our own walk with God.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 4–6

Reflection on Exodus 4–6:
When God calls Moses, his first response is hesitation. He questions his ability, his worthiness, and even asks God to send someone else. This is where many of us begin. When God calls us, we often focus on our limitations rather than His power.

Yet God does not withdraw the calling. He patiently answers Moses’ objections and reminds him that His presence will be enough.

Eventually, Moses chooses to obey.

This step is critical. Obedience does not require perfect confidence—it requires willingness.

But what happens next is often unexpected.

Instead of things improving, they become more difficult. Pharaoh rejects God’s command, and the burden on the Israelites increases. What seemed like the beginning of deliverance now feels like the beginning of greater suffering.

This is where many people become discouraged.

We expect obedience to lead to immediate results. When it does not, we begin to question whether we heard God correctly, or whether we made a mistake.

The people turn against Moses. Moses himself questions God.

Yet in this moment, God responds—not by immediately changing the situation, but by reaffirming His promise.

“I am the LORD.”

God reminds Moses of who He is and what He has already said He will do. His promises have not changed, even though circumstances have.

This reveals a pattern we must understand:

God calls → we struggle → we obey → resistance comes → discouragement follows → God reassures.

This is not failure.

This is the process of learning to trust God.

Obedience is not a straight path of immediate success. It is a journey that stretches our faith, challenges our expectations, and teaches us to rely not on outcomes, but on God Himself.

Many people stop in the middle of this process. They obey, encounter resistance, and assume something has gone wrong.

But Scripture shows us the opposite.

Resistance does not mean you are outside of God’s will.
Discouragement does not mean God has abandoned you.

Often, these are the very places where God is preparing to demonstrate His power.

The question is not whether we will face these moments—but whether we will continue to trust Him through them.

God’s promises remain true, even when we cannot yet see how they will be fulfilled.

Application:

  • Recognize this pattern in your own walk with God.
  • Do not be discouraged when obedience leads to difficulty.
  • Continue trusting God even when results are delayed.
  • Return to God’s promises when your circumstances feel overwhelming.
  • Choose to remain faithful through every stage of the process.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for showing me that the journey of obedience is not always easy, but that You are present in every step of it. Help me to trust You when I face resistance or discouragement. Remind me that Your promises do not change, even when my circumstances do. Strengthen my faith to continue walking with You, trusting in Your plan and Your timing. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Courage / Fear, Depression / Discouragement, Doubt / Lacking Faith, Faith / Trusting God, Obeying God, Protector / Deliverer, Strong in Our Weakness, Submitted / Servant

Hope in the Middle of Discouragement (Exodus 6:1-13)

Have you ever been so discouraged that you struggled to hear what God was saying?

Key Verse:
“Say, therefore, to the sons of Israel, ‘I am the LORD, and I will bring you out… I will redeem you… I will take you for My people…’” —Exodus 6:6–7 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 5, Moses obeys God and confronts Pharaoh—but instead of improvement, the situation worsens. The Israelites’ burden increases, and both the people and Moses become discouraged.

Now in Exodus 6, God responds—not by changing the situation immediately, but by reaffirming His promise and reminding Moses of who He is.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 6:1-13

God Promises Action

      1Then the LORD said to Moses, “Now you shall see what I will do to Pharaoh; for under compulsion he will let them go, and under compulsion he will drive them out of his land.”

      2God spoke further to Moses and said to him, “I am the LORD; 3and I appeared to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as God Almighty, but by My name, LORD, I did not make Myself known to them. 4“I also established My covenant with them, to give them the land of Canaan, the land in which they sojourned. 5“Furthermore I have heard the groaning of the sons of Israel, because the Egyptians are holding them in bondage, and I have remembered My covenant. 6“Say, therefore, to the sons of Israel, ‘I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will deliver you from their bondage. I will also redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great judgments. 7‘Then I will take you for My people, and I will be your God; and you shall know that I am the LORD your God, who brought you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians. 8‘I will bring you to the land which I swore to give to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and I will give it to you for a possession; I am the LORD.’” 9So Moses spoke thus to the sons of Israel, but they did not listen to Moses on account of their despondency and cruel bondage.

      10Now the LORD spoke to Moses, saying, 11“Go, tell Pharaoh king of Egypt to let the sons of Israel go out of his land.” 12But Moses spoke before the LORD, saying, “Behold, the sons of Israel have not listened to me; how then will Pharaoh listen to me, for I am unskilled in speech?” 13Then the LORD spoke to Moses and to Aaron, and gave them a charge to the sons of Israel and to Pharaoh king of Egypt, to bring the sons of Israel out of the land of Egypt.

Reflection on Exodus 6:1–13:
God begins with a powerful statement: “Now you shall see what I will do to Pharaoh.”

This is a turning point. God is not reacting—He is declaring that His plan is about to unfold.

But instead of immediately delivering Israel, God does something deeper. He reminds Moses of His identity.

“I am the LORD.”

This phrase is repeated throughout the passage. God is grounding Moses not in circumstances, but in His character.

He then reminds Moses of His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This is not a new plan. God is continuing what He already promised long ago.

Then come a series of powerful declarations—what are often called the “I will” statements:

  • I will bring you out
  • I will deliver you
  • I will redeem you
  • I will take you as My people
  • I will be your God
  • I will bring you into the land

These are not possibilities—they are promises.

Yet when Moses shares this with the people, something surprising happens:

They do not listen.

Scripture says it is because of their discouragement and harsh labor.

This is deeply relatable. When life becomes overwhelming, even truth can be hard to receive. God is speaking hope, but the people are too burdened to hear it.

This shows us that discouragement can affect not only how we feel—but what we are able to receive spiritually.

God does not rebuke them for this. Instead, He continues His plan.

He then tells Moses again to go speak to Pharaoh.

Moses responds with doubt: “If the sons of Israel will not listen to me, how then will Pharaoh listen?”

This brings us back to an earlier theme—Moses still feels inadequate.

Yet God does not withdraw the calling.

This passage reminds us of something critical:

God’s promises are not dependent on our feelings.
God’s plan is not stopped by our discouragement.

Even when people cannot hear Him clearly… God is still working.

Application:

  • Hold on to God’s promises, even when circumstances feel worse.
  • Remember that God’s character does not change based on your situation.
  • Be aware that discouragement can make it harder to hear truth.
  • Return to God’s Word when your feelings are overwhelmed.
  • Trust that God is working, even when you cannot yet see it.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to trust in Your promises even when I feel discouraged. When I struggle to hear You clearly, remind me of who You are and what You have said. Strengthen my faith to believe Your truth over my circumstances, and help me to continue walking forward in obedience. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Depression / Discouragement, Faith / Trusting God, His Timing Not Ours, His Ways Are Not Our Ways, Obeying God, Tribulation

Faith in the Face of Resistance (Exodus 5:1-9)

Have you ever obeyed God—only to have things get worse instead of better?

Key Verse:
“But Pharaoh said, ‘Who is the LORD that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, and besides, I will not let Israel go.’” —Exodus 5:2 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 3–4, God calls Moses, overcomes his objections, and brings him to a place of obedience. Moses moves from reluctance to action, stepping forward in faith to do what God commanded.

This begins a clear spiritual progression: God calls, we wrestle with doubt, we choose obedience—and then we encounter resistance. Exodus 5 marks the moment where obedience meets real opposition.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 5

Israel’s Labor Increased

      1And afterward Moses and Aaron came and said to Pharaoh, “Thus says the LORD, the God of Israel, ‘Let My people go that they may celebrate a feast to Me in the wilderness.’” 2But Pharaoh said, “Who is the LORD that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, and besides, I will not let Israel go.” 3Then they said, “The God of the Hebrews has met with us. Please, let us go a three days’ journey into the wilderness that we may sacrifice to the LORD our God, otherwise He will fall upon us with pestilence or with the sword.” 4But the king of Egypt said to them, “Moses and Aaron, why do you draw the people away from their work? Get back to your labors!” 5Again Pharaoh said, “Look, the people of the land are now many, and you would have them cease from their labors!” 6So the same day Pharaoh commanded the taskmasters over the people and their foremen, saying, 7“You are no longer to give the people straw to make brick as previously; let them go and gather straw for themselves. 8“But the quota of bricks which they were making previously, you shall impose on them; you are not to reduce any of it. Because they are lazy, therefore they cry out, ‘Let us go and sacrifice to our God.’ 9“Let the labor be heavier on the men, and let them work at it so that they will pay no attention to false words.”

Reflection on Exodus 5:1–9:
Moses and Aaron finally stand before Pharaoh and deliver God’s command: “Let My people go.” This is a bold act of obedience. Moses is no longer making excuses—he is doing exactly what God told him to do.

But instead of immediate success, they are met with rejection.

Pharaoh responds, “Who is the LORD that I should obey His voice?” This is not just defiance against Moses—it is defiance against God Himself. Pharaoh does not acknowledge God’s authority and refuses to submit.

This moment is important. Obedience to God does not guarantee immediate results. In fact, it often exposes resistance that was already there.

Pharaoh then makes the situation worse. He increases the burden on the Israelites by requiring them to gather their own straw while maintaining the same workload. What had already been difficult now becomes even more oppressive.

From a human perspective, this would seem like failure. Moses obeyed, and conditions worsened.

This is where many people struggle in their walk with God.

We trust Him, but we also expect to see results quickly. When those results do not come—or when things become more difficult—it is easy to become discouraged.

Yet God has already warned us that His ways are not our ways.

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts.” —Isaiah 55:8–9

God not only works differently in how He accomplishes His plans, but also in when He fulfills them. We tend to look for quick results, but God works according to His perfect timing.

Scripture reminds us:

“The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, to the person who seeks Him. It is good that he waits silently for the salvation of the LORD.” —Lamentations 3:25–26

“Yet those who wait for the LORD will gain new strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles, they will run and not get tired, they will walk and not become weary.” —Isaiah 40:31

Even Moses would soon become discouraged when things did not improve immediately. But this was not outside of God’s plan. In fact, God had already told him this would happen:

“But I know that the king of Egypt will not permit you to go, except under compulsion. So I will stretch out My hand and strike Egypt with all My miracles which I shall do in the midst of it; and after that he will let you go.” —Exodus 3:19–20

This means that the resistance Moses encountered was not failure—it was confirmation that God’s plan was unfolding exactly as He said.

This reveals an important truth:

God’s delays are not His absence.
God’s resistance is not His rejection.

This fits the pattern we see developing:

God calls → we struggle → we obey → resistance comes.

Exodus 5 reminds us that opposition is not a sign that we are outside of God’s will. It is often the place where God is preparing to demonstrate His power.

The question is not whether we will face resistance—but whether we will remain faithful when we do.

Application:

  • Do not assume that difficulty means you are outside of God’s will.
  • Be patient and trust in God’s timing rather than expecting immediate results.
  • Stay faithful to what God has called you to do, even when things get harder.
  • Remember that God is working even when you cannot yet see the outcome.
  • Strengthen your faith to continue in obedience despite opposition.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to remain faithful when obedience becomes difficult. Teach me to trust in Your timing and not my own expectations. When I face resistance or discouragement, remind me that You are still working and that Your plans are unfolding perfectly. Give me the strength to wait on You and continue walking in obedience. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

His Timing Not Ours, Justice / Judgment, Obeying God, Repenting from Sin, Revelation

How Long, O Lord? (Revelation 6:9-17)

When you see injustice in the world, do you trust that God will make it right?

Key Verse:
“For the great day of their wrath has come, and who is able to stand?” —Revelation 6:17 NASB

Background Context:
In Revelation 6:1–8, the Lamb opens the first four seals, releasing judgments upon the earth—conquest, war, famine, and death. These events reveal that God is still sovereign even in times of chaos and suffering.

Now in Revelation 6:9–17, the focus shifts. We are shown both the cry of the faithful who have suffered for God and the response of the world as judgment intensifies.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Revelation 6:9-17

The Fifth Seal—Martyrs

      9When the Lamb broke the fifth seal, I saw underneath the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God, and because of the testimony which they had maintained; 10and they cried out with a loud voice, saying, “How long, O Lord, holy and true, will You refrain from judging and avenging our blood on those who dwell on the earth?” 11And there was given to each of them a white robe; and they were told that they should rest for a little while longer, until the number of their fellow servants and their brethren who were to be killed even as they had been, would be completed also.

The Sixth Seal—Terror

      12I looked when He broke the sixth seal, and there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth made of hair, and the whole moon became like blood; 13and the stars of the sky fell to the earth, as a fig tree casts its unripe figs when shaken by a great wind. 14The sky was split apart like a scroll when it is rolled up, and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. 15Then the kings of the earth and the great men and the commanders and the rich and the strong and every slave and free man hid themselves in the caves and among the rocks of the mountains; 16and they said to the mountains and to the rocks, “Fall on us and hide us from the presence of Him who sits on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb; 17for the great day of their wrath has come, and who is able to stand?”

Reflection on Revelation 6:9–17:
As the fifth seal is opened, John sees the souls of those who had been slain because of their faithfulness to the word of God. These are not people who lived comfortably—they remained faithful even in the face of persecution and death.

They cry out, “How long, O Lord… will You refrain from judging and avenging our blood?”

This is a deeply human question. When we experience or witness injustice, we often wonder why God delays judgment. Why does He allow wrongdoing to continue?

God’s response is not immediate judgment, but assurance. They are given white robes and told to rest a little longer, until the full number of those who will suffer is complete.

This reveals something important: God’s timing is intentional. His delay is not indifference—it is part of His plan.

Then the sixth seal is opened, and the scene shifts dramatically.

There is a great earthquake. The sun becomes dark, the moon turns like blood, and the stars fall. The sky is split apart, and every mountain and island is moved. This is a picture of creation itself responding to the judgment of God.

The reaction of the people is striking.

Kings, leaders, the rich, the powerful, and the weak alike all respond the same way—they try to hide. They call out for the mountains and rocks to fall on them, to hide them from the presence of God and from the wrath of the Lamb.

This reveals a sobering truth: when judgment comes, no one can escape by status, power, or wealth.

The question asked at the end is powerful: “Who is able to stand?”

This is the question every person must answer.

It is not enough to acknowledge God exists. It is not enough to associate with religion or to rely on outward identity. What matters is whether we are aligned with Him—whether we have responded to Him in repentance and obedience.

The same God who patiently delays judgment also promises that it will come.

This passage reminds us that God sees injustice, hears the cries of His people, and will act in His time. It also calls us to examine our own lives.

Are we living in a way that prepares us to stand before Him?

Application:

  • Trust that God sees injustice and will bring judgment in His time.
  • Be patient and faithful, even when justice seems delayed.
  • Reflect on your life and your readiness to stand before God.
  • Do not rely on worldly status or security for protection.
  • Respond to God now with repentance and obedience.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to trust in Your timing and Your justice. When I see injustice or experience hardship, remind me that You are not unaware and that You will act. Prepare my heart to stand before You, and lead me to live in repentance, obedience, and faithfulness. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

All Powerful / King of All, Faith / Trusting God, Humility, Justice / Judgment, Obeying God, Repenting from Sin, Revelation, Seeking God, Submitted / Servant

The Lamb Opens the Seals (Revelation 6:1-8)

When the world feels out of control, do you believe God is still in control?

Key Verse:
“I looked, and behold, a white horse, and he who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer.” —Revelation 6:2 NASB

Background Context:
In Revelation 4–5, John is shown a vision of heaven where God sits on the throne and Yeshua, the Lamb, is found worthy to open the scroll. This establishes that all authority belongs to God and that Yeshua alone is worthy to carry out His plan.

Now in Revelation 6, the Lamb begins to open the seals. What follows is not random chaos, but the unfolding of God’s judgment on the earth.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Revelation 6:1-8

The First Seal—Rider on White Horse

      1Then I saw when the Lamb broke one of the seven seals, and I heard one of the four living creatures saying as with a voice of thunder, “Come.” 2I looked, and behold, a white horse, and he who sat on it had a bow; and a crown was given to him, and he went out conquering and to conquer.

The Second Seal—War

      3When He broke the second seal, I heard the second living creature saying, “Come.” 4And another, a red horse, went out; and to him who sat on it, it was granted to take peace from the earth, and that men would slay one another; and a great sword was given to him.

The Third Seal—Famine

      5When He broke the third seal, I heard the third living creature saying, “Come.” I looked, and behold, a black horse; and he who sat on it had a pair of scales in his hand. 6And I heard something like a voice in the center of the four living creatures saying, “A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius; and do not damage the oil and the wine.”

The Fourth Seal—Death

      7When the Lamb broke the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth living creature saying, “Come.” 8I looked, and behold, an ashen horse; and he who sat on it had the name Death; and Hades was following with him. Authority was given to them over a fourth of the earth, to kill with sword and with famine and with pestilence and by the wild beasts of the earth.

Reflection on Revelation 6:1–8:
As the Lamb opens the first four seals, four riders appear—often referred to as the Four Horsemen. Each represents a different aspect of judgment: conquest, war, famine, and death.

The first rider goes out conquering. The second brings war and removes peace from the earth. The third brings scarcity and economic hardship. The fourth brings widespread death through multiple means.

At first glance, this may seem like uncontrolled destruction. But the passage makes something very important clear—none of this happens apart from God’s authority.

Each rider is released only when the Lamb opens a seal.

Each is given permission to act.

This is not chaos without purpose. It is judgment under control.

This challenges how we often view the hardships of the world. When we see war, suffering, and instability, it can feel like everything is spiraling beyond control. But this passage reminds us that even in the midst of judgment, God remains sovereign.

Nothing happens outside of His authority.

At the same time, this passage is sobering. The judgments are real, and they are severe. They reveal the consequences of a world that has rejected God’s authority and chosen its own way.

This connects back to a pattern seen throughout Scripture. God is patient, but there comes a time when judgment follows continued rebellion.

Yet even here, there is an opportunity to reflect.

These events are not only about the future—they point to a deeper truth about the present. The brokenness we see in the world today—conflict, scarcity, suffering—is a reminder of what life apart from God leads to.

The question for us is not simply how we interpret these events, but how we respond.

Do we recognize God’s authority?

Do we turn toward Him in humility and obedience?

Or do we continue living as though we are in control?

Revelation 6 reminds us that history is not random. God is at work, and His purposes will be fulfilled.

The same Lamb who brings judgment is also the One who provided salvation.

The call is clear: respond to Him while there is still time.

Application:

  • Trust that God remains in control, even when the world feels unstable.
  • Recognize that judgment is part of God’s justice, not a loss of control.
  • Reflect on areas of your life where you may be resisting God’s authority.
  • Turn to God in humility rather than relying on your own understanding.
  • Remember that Yeshua is both Savior and Judge.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to trust in Your authority even when I do not understand what is happening in the world around me. Remind me that You are in control and that Your purposes are being fulfilled. Lead me to live in humility and obedience, recognizing both Your justice and Your mercy. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Hypocrisy, Justice / Judgment, Obeying God, Psalms

When God Calls Us to Account (Psalms 50)

Are you honoring God with your life—or just going through the motions?

Key Verse:
“Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving and pay your vows to the Most High.” —Psalm 50:14 NASB

Background Context:
Psalms 50 shifts in tone from many earlier psalms. Rather than a song of praise or lament, this psalm presents a courtroom scene where God Himself speaks as Judge over His people.

God calls heaven and earth as witnesses and addresses His people directly—not the nations first, but those who claim to follow Him. The focus is not on outward enemies, but on the condition of the hearts of His own people and the sincerity of their worship.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Reflection on Psalm 50:

Psalm 50

God the Judge of the Righteous and the Wicked.

A Psalm of Asaph.

1The Mighty One, God, the LORD, has spoken,
And summoned the earth from the rising of the sun to its setting.

      2Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty,
God has shone forth.

      3May our God come and not keep silence;
Fire devours before Him,
And it is very tempestuous around Him.

      4He summons the heavens above,
And the earth, to judge His people:

      5“Gather My godly ones to Me,
Those who have made a covenant with Me by sacrifice.”

      6And the heavens declare His righteousness,
For God Himself is judge.

Selah.

      7“Hear, O My people, and I will speak;
O Israel, I will testify against you;
I am God, your God.

      8“I do not reprove you for your sacrifices,
And your burnt offerings are continually before Me.

      9“I shall take no young bull out of your house
Nor male goats out of your folds.

      10“For every beast of the forest is Mine,
The cattle on a thousand hills.

      11“I know every bird of the mountains,
And everything that moves in the field is Mine.

      12“If I were hungry I would not tell you,
For the world is Mine, and all it contains.

      13“Shall I eat the flesh of bulls
Or drink the blood of male goats?

      14“Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving
And pay your vows to the Most High;

      15Call upon Me in the day of trouble;
I shall rescue you, and you will honor Me.”

      16But to the wicked God says,
“What right have you to tell of My statutes
And to take My covenant in your mouth?

      17“For you hate discipline,
And you cast My words behind you.

      18“When you see a thief, you are pleased with him,
And you associate with adulterers.

      19“You let your mouth loose in evil
And your tongue frames deceit.

      20“You sit and speak against your brother;
You slander your own mother’s son.

      21“These things you have done and I kept silence;
You thought that I was just like you;
I will reprove you and state the case in order before your eyes.

      22“Now consider this, you who forget God,
Or I will tear you in pieces, and there will be none to deliver.

      23“He who offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving honors Me;
And to him who orders his way aright
I shall show the salvation of God.”

Reflection on Psalm 50:
The psalm opens with a powerful image of God coming in judgment. He is not silent. He comes with fire and storm, emphasizing His authority and holiness. This is a reminder that God is not distant or indifferent—He sees and will respond.

God first addresses His people regarding their sacrifices. Interestingly, He does not rebuke them for failing to offer sacrifices. In fact, He acknowledges that they are performing the rituals.

But then He reveals the problem.

“I shall take no young bull out of your house… For every beast of the forest is Mine.”

God makes it clear that He does not need their offerings. The sacrifices were never meant to meet God’s needs—they were meant to reflect the heart of the people.

This exposes a key issue: outward obedience without inward devotion.

The people were going through the motions, but their hearts were not aligned with God. They were offering sacrifices, but not offering themselves.

God then calls them to something deeper: thanksgiving, obedience, and a genuine relationship with Him. He desires a people who trust Him, honor Him, and live according to His ways—not just those who perform religious acts.

The psalm then turns to a sharper rebuke.

God confronts those who claim His covenant but live in disobedience. They speak His words, but reject His instruction. They associate with sin, tolerate wrongdoing, and misuse their speech.

This is a sobering warning. It is possible to identify as part of God’s people outwardly, while living in a way that contradicts His commands.

God makes it clear that He sees this inconsistency.

He warns that silence should not be mistaken for approval. Just because judgment has not yet come does not mean God is unaware or unconcerned.

Yet even in this warning, there is an invitation.

“He who offers a sacrifice of thanksgiving honors Me; and to him who orders his way aright I shall show the salvation of God.”

God calls His people back—not just to ritual, but to right living. True worship is not found in external actions alone, but in a life that honors Him through obedience, gratitude, and trust.

This psalm challenges us to examine our own lives.

Are we simply maintaining outward appearances, or are we truly walking in obedience and gratitude before God?

God desires more than words—He desires our hearts.

Application:

  • Evaluate whether your worship is genuine or merely routine.
  • Remember that God values obedience and gratitude over empty rituals.
  • Align your actions with God’s Word, not just your words.
  • Do not mistake God’s patience for approval of sin.
  • Offer your life as an act of true worship, not just external practices.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to worship You in truth and not just in outward actions. Reveal any areas where I may be going through the motions without a sincere heart. Teach me to live in obedience, gratitude, and reverence before You. Let my life reflect true worship that honors You. In Yeshua’s name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.