Category Archives: Obeying God

Obeying God, Protector / Deliverer, Traditions / Holidays

The Blood that Saves (Exodus 12:1-28)

What makes the difference between judgment and deliverance?

Key Verse:
“The blood shall be a sign for you on the houses where you live; and when I see the blood I will pass over you…” —Exodus 12:13 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 11, God declares that one final plague is coming—the death of the firstborn—which will break Pharaoh’s resistance and lead to Israel’s release.

Now in Exodus 12:1–28, before judgment comes, God gives His people specific instructions. This moment is not just about deliverance from Egypt—it establishes a lasting ordinance that points to something far greater.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 12:1-28

The Passover Lamb

      1Now the LORD said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt, 2“This month shall be the beginning of months for you; it is to be the first month of the year to you. 3“Speak to all the congregation of Israel, saying, ‘On the tenth of this month they are each one to take a lamb for themselves, according to their fathers’ households, a lamb for each household. 4‘Now if the household is too small for a lamb, then he and his neighbor nearest to his house are to take one according to the number of persons in them; according to what each man should eat, you are to divide the lamb. 5‘Your lamb shall be an unblemished male a year old; you may take it from the sheep or from the goats. 6‘You shall keep it until the fourteenth day of the same month, then the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel is to kill it at twilight. 7‘Moreover, they shall take some of the blood and put it on the two doorposts and on the lintel of the houses in which they eat it. 8‘They shall eat the flesh that same night, roasted with fire, and they shall eat it with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. 9‘Do not eat any of it raw or boiled at all with water, but rather roasted with fire, both its head and its legs along with its entrails. 10‘And you shall not leave any of it over until morning, but whatever is left of it until morning, you shall burn with fire. 11‘Now you shall eat it in this manner: with your loins girded, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and you shall eat it in haste—it is the LORD’S Passover. 12‘For I will go through the land of Egypt on that night, and will strike down all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgments—I am the LORD. 13‘The blood shall be a sign for you on the houses where you live; and when I see the blood I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you when I strike the land of Egypt.

Feast of Unleavened Bread

14‘Now this day will be a memorial to you, and you shall celebrate it as a feast to the LORD; throughout your generations you are to celebrate it as a permanent ordinance. 15‘Seven days you shall eat unleavened bread, but on the first day you shall remove leaven from your houses; for whoever eats anything leavened from the first day until the seventh day, that person shall be cut off from Israel. 16‘On the first day you shall have a holy assembly, and another holy assembly on the seventh day; no work at all shall be done on them, except what must be eaten by every person, that alone may be prepared by you. 17‘You shall also observe the Feast of Unleavened Bread, for on this very day I brought your hosts out of the land of Egypt; therefore you shall observe this day throughout your generations as a permanent ordinance. 18‘In the first month, on the fourteenth day of the month at evening, you shall eat unleavened bread, until the twenty-first day of the month at evening. 19‘Seven days there shall be no leaven found in your houses; for whoever eats what is leavened, that person shall be cut off from the congregation of Israel, whether he is an alien or a native of the land. 20‘You shall not eat anything leavened; in all your dwellings you shall eat unleavened bread.’”

      21Then Moses called for all the elders of Israel and said to them, “Go and take for yourselves lambs according to your families, and slay the Passover lamb. 22“You shall take a bunch of hyssop and dip it in the blood which is in the basin, and apply some of the blood that is in the basin to the lintel and the two doorposts; and none of you shall go outside the door of his house until morning.

A Memorial of Redemption

23“For the LORD will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when He sees the blood on the lintel and on the two doorposts, the LORD will pass over the door and will not allow the destroyer to come in to your houses to smite you. 24“And you shall observe this event as an ordinance for you and your children forever. 25“When you enter the land which the LORD will give you, as He has promised, you shall observe this rite. 26“And when your children say to you, ‘What does this rite mean to you?’ 27you shall say, ‘It is a Passover sacrifice to the LORD who passed over the houses of the sons of Israel in Egypt when He smote the Egyptians, but spared our homes.’” And the people bowed low and worshiped.

      28Then the sons of Israel went and did so; just as the LORD had commanded Moses and Aaron, so they did.

Reflection on Exodus 12:1–28:
Before the final plague, God does something remarkable.

He prepares His people.

He does not leave them uncertain or unprotected. Instead, He gives clear, detailed instructions—what to do, when to do it, and why it matters.

This is important.

God’s deliverance is not random—it is intentional and revealed. Those who listen and obey are brought under His protection.

The instructions center on a lamb.

Each household is to take an unblemished lamb, keep it, and then sacrifice it at the appointed time. The blood of the lamb is then placed on the doorposts and lintel of the house.

This is the defining act.

The blood becomes a sign.

God says, “When I see the blood, I will pass over you.”

This is the difference between life and death.

Not effort.
Not status.
Not identity alone.

The blood.

This points to a deeper truth that echoes throughout Scripture. Deliverance is not based on who we are or what we have done—it is based on what God has provided and whether we respond in obedience.

The people are also instructed to eat the lamb in a specific way—prepared, ready, with sandals on their feet and staff in hand.

This is not just a meal.

It is preparation for departure.

Deliverance is coming, and they must be ready to move.

God is not only saving them from judgment—He is leading them out of bondage.

He then establishes this event as a permanent memorial.

“This day will be a memorial to you…”

The Feast of Unleavened Bread is instituted so that future generations will remember what God has done.

This is not meant to be forgotten.

God’s acts of deliverance are to be remembered, retold, and passed down.

This connects to something we have seen before—God’s work is not only for the present moment, but for generations to come.

Finally, we see the response of the people.

“They bowed low and worshiped.”

And then:

“The sons of Israel went and did so…”

This is the right response.

They did not debate.
They did not delay.
They obeyed.

This passage is one of the clearest pictures in all of Scripture of salvation and deliverance.

A substitute is provided.
Blood is required.
Judgment is coming.
Protection is given to those who obey.

And it all points forward to Yeshua—the Lamb of God—whose sacrifice brings ultimate deliverance from sin and judgment (John 1:29; 1 Corinthians 5:7).

The question this passage leaves us with is simple and profound:

Are we covered?

Because when judgment comes, only what God has provided will stand.

Application:

  • Trust in what God has provided for your deliverance, not in your own efforts.
  • Respond to God’s instructions with obedience, not delay.
  • Live with readiness, knowing that God is leading you forward.
  • Remember and share what God has done in your life.
  • Place your faith in Yeshua, the Lamb who takes away sin (John 1:29).

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You for providing a way of deliverance. Help me to trust fully in what You have done and to respond with obedience and faith. Remind me to live ready, prepared to follow where You lead. Thank You for the sacrifice that brings life and protection. 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.

Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Fear / Reverence for God, Obeying God, Submitted / Servant

God Wants Obedience, Not Compromise (Exodus 10:12-20)

Do you seek God only when consequences become overwhelming—or do you truly turn to Him?

Key Verse:
“So Pharaoh hurriedly called for Moses and Aaron, and he said, ‘I have sinned against the LORD your God and against you.’” —Exodus 10:16 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 10:1–12, God makes His purpose clear and Pharaoh attempts to compromise rather than fully obey. When Pharaoh refuses to submit, God sends the locusts into Egypt.

Now in Exodus 10:12–20, the locusts bring widespread devastation, completing what the previous plagues had begun. Pharaoh again appears to repent—but his response reveals a familiar pattern.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 10:12-20

      12Then the LORD said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand over the land of Egypt for the locusts, that they may come up on the land of Egypt and eat every plant of the land, even all that the hail has left.” 13So Moses stretched out his staff over the land of Egypt, and the LORD directed an east wind on the land all that day and all that night; and when it was morning, the east wind brought the locusts. 14The locusts came up over all the land of Egypt and settled in all the territory of Egypt; they were very numerous. There had never been so many locusts, nor would there be so many again. 15For they covered the surface of the whole land, so that the land was darkened; and they ate every plant of the land and all the fruit of the trees that the hail had left. Thus nothing green was left on tree or plant of the field through all the land of Egypt. 16Then Pharaoh hurriedly called for Moses and Aaron, and he said, “I have sinned against the LORD your God and against you. 17“Now therefore, please forgive my sin only this once, and make supplication to the LORD your God, that He would only remove this death from me.” 18He went out from Pharaoh and made supplication to the LORD. 19So the LORD shifted the wind to a very strong west wind which took up the locusts and drove them into the Red Sea; not one locust was left in all the territory of Egypt. 20But the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he did not let the sons of Israel go.

Reflection on Exodus 10:12–20:
As God had warned, the locusts come.

They cover the land completely—so much so that the ground is darkened. Every remaining plant, every tree, and every crop that survived the hail is consumed.

Nothing is left.

This is total devastation.

What had been partially destroyed is now completely gone. Egypt’s food supply, economic stability, and sense of security are wiped out.

This is the natural progression we have been seeing.

When warnings are ignored, consequences increase.

Pharaoh has had multiple opportunities to respond—to humble himself, to obey, to submit to God. Instead, he has resisted, delayed, and attempted compromise.

Now the consequences are overwhelming.

At this point, Pharaoh responds quickly.

He calls for Moses and Aaron and says:

“I have sinned… Now therefore, please forgive my sin only this once, and make supplication… that He would only remove this death from me.”

These words sound strong.

Pharaoh acknowledges sin.
He asks for forgiveness.
He recognizes the severity of what is happening.

But something is missing.

He is focused on removing the consequence—not surrendering to God.

This is the same pattern we saw before, now intensified.

Pressure leads to confession.
Relief leads to hardening.

Moses intercedes, and God responds. A strong west wind drives the locusts into the sea, removing them completely.

The pressure is lifted.

And then, as before:

Pharaoh’s heart is hardened again.

This reveals a critical truth.

Consequences can produce a response—but not necessarily transformation.

It is possible to say the right words, to acknowledge sin, and to seek relief—without a true change of heart.

Pharaoh wanted the suffering to stop.

He did not want to submit to God.

We also see again the role of God in this process. Pharaoh had already hardened his own heart repeatedly, choosing resistance again and again. Now, as Scripture tells us, the LORD hardens his heart—confirming him in that path and allowing his chosen resistance to continue so that His power would be fully revealed.

God is not forcing Pharaoh into something new.

He is sustaining the direction Pharaoh has already chosen.

For us, this passage is deeply personal.

When we face consequences, how do we respond?

Do we truly turn to God?
Or do we simply want relief from the situation?

True repentance is not just about what we say in difficult moments.

It is about a lasting change of heart that continues even after the pressure is gone.

God is not looking for temporary responses.

He is calling for complete surrender.

Application:

  • Examine whether your response to God is driven by consequences or true repentance.
  • Do not wait for situations to become severe before turning to God.
  • Recognize that saying the right words is not the same as a changed heart.
  • Seek lasting transformation, not temporary relief.
  • Respond to God with consistent obedience, even after the pressure is removed.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to respond to You with a sincere and transformed heart. Keep me from seeking only relief in difficult moments, and lead me to true repentance and obedience. Change me from within so that my life reflects Your will. Thank You for Your patience and 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.

All Powerful / King of All, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Fear / Reverence for God, Obeying God, Submitted / Servant

Partial Obedience Is Not Enough (Exodus 10:1-12)

When God speaks clearly, do you obey—or try to negotiate?

Key Verse:
“But he said to them, ‘No! Rather go now, the men among you, and serve the LORD, for that is what you desire.’” —Exodus 10:11 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 9, God continues to escalate the plagues, demonstrating His power while Pharaoh repeatedly hardens his heart. Even when Pharaoh confesses sin, his response proves temporary and insincere.

Now in Exodus 10:1–12, God reveals His purpose more clearly—these events are not only about freeing Israel, but about making His name known. At the same time, Pharaoh shifts again from resistance to attempted compromise.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 10:1-12

The Plague of Locusts

      1Then the LORD said to Moses, “Go to Pharaoh, for I have hardened his heart and the heart of his servants, that I may perform these signs of Mine among them, 2and that you may tell in the hearing of your son, and of your grandson, how I made a mockery of the Egyptians and how I performed My signs among them, that you may know that I am the LORD.”

      3Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said to him, “Thus says the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, ‘How long will you refuse to humble yourself before Me? Let My people go, that they may serve Me. 4‘For if you refuse to let My people go, behold, tomorrow I will bring locusts into your territory. 5‘They shall cover the surface of the land, so that no one will be able to see the land. They will also eat the rest of what has escaped—what is left to you from the hail—and they will eat every tree which sprouts for you out of the field. 6‘Then your houses shall be filled and the houses of all your servants and the houses of all the Egyptians, something which neither your fathers nor your grandfathers have seen, from the day that they came upon the earth until this day.’” And he turned and went out from Pharaoh. 7Pharaoh’s servants said to him, “How long will this man be a snare to us? Let the men go, that they may serve the LORD their God. Do you not realize that Egypt is destroyed?” 8So Moses and Aaron were brought back to Pharaoh, and he said to them, “Go, serve the LORD your God! Who are the ones that are going?” 9Moses said, “We shall go with our young and our old; with our sons and our daughters, with our flocks and our herds we shall go, for we must hold a feast to the LORD.” 10Then he said to them, “Thus may the LORD be with you, if ever I let you and your little ones go! Take heed, for evil is in your mind. 11“Not so! Go now, the men among you, and serve the LORD, for that is what you desire.” So they were driven out from Pharaoh’s presence.

      12Then the LORD said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand over the land of Egypt for the locusts, that they may come up on the land of Egypt and eat every plant of the land, even all that the hail has left.”

Reflection on Exodus 10:1–12:
God begins by explaining something we have been seeing unfold.

“I have hardened his heart… that I may perform these signs… and that you may tell your son and your grandson…”

This is not random.

God is intentionally revealing His power so that His name will be known—not only in Egypt, but across generations. What is happening is meant to be remembered, retold, and understood.

God is making Himself unmistakably known.

Moses and Aaron again deliver the same message:

“How long will you refuse to humble yourself before Me? Let My people go…”

The issue is clearly identified—humility.

Pharaoh’s resistance is not about lack of information. It is about pride and refusal to submit.

At this point, something shifts among Pharaoh’s own servants.

They say to him, “How long will this man be a snare to us? Let the men go… Do you not yet realize that Egypt is destroyed?”

Even those around Pharaoh can now see the truth.

This is significant.

Sometimes others can recognize the consequences of our resistance before we are willing to admit it ourselves.

Pharaoh then calls Moses and Aaron back and appears ready to respond.

“Go, serve the LORD your God! Who are the ones that are going?”

This question reveals something important.

God had already made His command clear—all the people were to go. Pharaoh is not seeking clarity—he is preparing to limit obedience.

Moses answers plainly:

“We shall go with our young and our old… our sons and our daughters… our flocks and our herds…”

This is full obedience.

Nothing held back.
Nothing negotiated.

Pharaoh responds with refusal.

“Only the men may go…”

Here it is.

Compromise.

When God speaks clearly, He is not inviting negotiation—He is calling for obedience. Pharaoh had heard God’s command repeatedly, and by this point, the message was unmistakable. Yet instead of submitting, he attempts to redefine obedience.

He is willing to allow some obedience—but not full obedience.

This reveals a dangerous tendency.

When we do not want to fully obey God, we often try to adjust His commands to fit our comfort, our control, or our preferences. We may obey in part, while holding back what we do not want to surrender.

But partial obedience is still disobedience.

God does not call us to compromise with Him—He calls us to trust Him and obey fully.

Pharaoh’s compromise was not accepted.

And it did not lead to relief—it led to judgment. Immediately after refusing full obedience, God sends the locusts into the land. This makes the outcome clear: when God speaks plainly, compromise does not delay consequences—it invites them.

This passage calls us to examine our own response when God speaks.

Do we obey fully?
Or do we try to follow Him on our own terms?

God is not unclear.

The question is whether we are willing to submit.

Application:

  • When God speaks clearly, respond with full obedience.
  • Examine areas where you may be compromising instead of surrendering.
  • Recognize that partial obedience is not true obedience.
  • Guard against pride that resists submitting to God.
  • Trust that God’s commands are right, even when they are difficult.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to obey You fully and not hold back areas of my life. Reveal any place where I am trying to compromise instead of surrender. Give me a humble heart that responds to Your Word with trust and obedience. Strengthen me to follow You completely, without negotiation. 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.

Obeying God, Repenting from Sin, Submitted / Servant, Tribulation

Empty Words of Surrender (Exodus 9:22-35)

Have you ever said the right things to God in a difficult moment—only to return to old ways when the pressure lifted?

Key Verse:
“But when Pharaoh saw that the rain and the hail and the thunder had ceased, he sinned again and hardened his heart, he and his servants.” —Exodus 9:34 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 9:8–21, God sends boils upon Egypt and then warns of a coming hailstorm. Some of Pharaoh’s servants respond to God’s warning and act, while others ignore it. Pharaoh’s heart remains hardened as God continues to reveal His power and authority.

Now in Exodus 9:22–35, the hail falls just as God said, bringing destruction across Egypt—while again sparing His people. Pharaoh appears to respond, but his actions reveal something deeper about the nature of true repentance.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 9:22-35

      22Now the LORD said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand toward the sky, that hail may fall on all the land of Egypt, on man and on beast and on every plant of the field, throughout the land of Egypt.” 23Moses stretched out his staff toward the sky, and the LORD sent thunder and hail, and fire ran down to the earth. And the LORD rained hail on the land of Egypt. 24So there was hail, and fire flashing continually in the midst of the hail, very severe, such as had not been in all the land of Egypt since it became a nation. 25The hail struck all that was in the field through all the land of Egypt, both man and beast; the hail also struck every plant of the field and shattered every tree of the field. 26Only in the land of Goshen, where the sons of Israel were, there was no hail.

      27Then Pharaoh sent for Moses and Aaron, and said to them, “I have sinned this time; the LORD is the righteous one, and I and my people are the wicked ones. 28“Make supplication to the LORD, for there has been enough of God’s thunder and hail; and I will let you go, and you shall stay no longer.” 29Moses said to him, “As soon as I go out of the city, I will spread out my hands to the LORD; the thunder will cease and there will be hail no longer, that you may know that the earth is the LORD’S. 30“But as for you and your servants, I know that you do not yet fear the LORD God.” 31(Now the flax and the barley were ruined, for the barley was in the ear and the flax was in bud. 32But the wheat and the spelt were not ruined, for they ripen late.) 33So Moses went out of the city from Pharaoh, and spread out his hands to the LORD; and the thunder and the hail ceased, and rain no longer poured on the earth. 34But when Pharaoh saw that the rain and the hail and the thunder had ceased, he sinned again and hardened his heart, he and his servants. 35Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, and he did not let the sons of Israel go, just as the LORD had spoken through Moses.

Reflection on Exodus 9:22–35:
God instructs Moses to stretch out his hand toward the sky, and a devastating storm of hail, thunder, and fire comes upon Egypt. It is unlike anything the land has ever experienced.

The destruction is widespread.

People, animals, and crops left in the field are struck down. Trees are shattered. The land is broken under the weight of what God has brought.

Yet once again, there is a clear distinction.

In the land of Goshen, where the Israelites live, there is no hail.

God is continuing to demonstrate both His judgment and His protection. He is not only showing His power—He is making it unmistakably clear who belongs to Him.

In the midst of this, Pharaoh responds.

For the first time, he openly admits wrongdoing:

“I have sinned this time; the LORD is the righteous one, and I and my people are the wicked ones.”

These are strong words.

Pharaoh acknowledges God’s righteousness and his own sin. He asks Moses to entreat the LORD to stop the storm, promising to let the people go.

On the surface, this appears to be genuine repentance.

But Moses already understands what is happening.

“I know that you do not yet fear the LORD God.”

Moses recognizes that Pharaoh’s words do not reflect a changed heart. Pharaoh wants relief from the consequences, but he is not ready to submit to God.

Moses prays, and the storm stops.

The thunder ceases.
The hail ends.
The pressure is removed.

And then Pharaoh responds again.

He hardens his heart.

This reveals a critical truth.

Saying the right words is not the same as true repentance.

Pharaoh confessed sin—but did not turn from it.
He acknowledged God—but did not submit to Him.
He sought relief—but not transformation.

This pattern has been building throughout the plagues, and here it becomes very clear.

Temporary pressure can produce temporary confession.
But only a changed heart produces lasting obedience.

We also continue to see the role of God in this process. Pharaoh had repeatedly hardened his own heart earlier in the account. Now, as Scripture tells us, the LORD hardens his heart—confirming him in the path he has already chosen and allowing that resistance to continue.

This is not God forcing rebellion, but God sustaining Pharaoh’s chosen direction so that His power would be fully revealed.

God is demonstrating His authority over creation, over nations, and over kings.

But Pharaoh still refuses to yield.

This passage challenges us to examine our own hearts.

Do we turn to God only when circumstances become difficult?

Do we say the right things in moments of pressure, but return to old patterns when life becomes easier?

True repentance is more than words.

It is a change of heart that leads to a change of life.

God is not looking for temporary responses—He is calling for lasting surrender.

Application:

  • Examine whether your response to God is genuine or driven by circumstances.
  • Do not confuse confession with true repentance.
  • Seek transformation of heart, not just relief from difficulty.
  • Be aware that temporary pressure can produce temporary change.
  • Commit to lasting obedience, even after the pressure is removed.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to come before You with a sincere and humble heart. Keep me from offering empty words or temporary responses. Change me from within so that my life reflects true repentance and obedience. Help me to follow You not only in difficult moments, but in every season. Thank You for Your patience and Your truth. 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, Miracles, Miracles, Obeying God, Protector / Deliverer, Repenting from Sin, Seeking God, Submitted / Servant

Responding to God’s Warning (Exodus 9:8-21)

When God gives a warning, do you take it seriously—or ignore it?

Key Verse:
“The one among the servants of Pharaoh who feared the word of the LORD made his servants and his livestock flee into the houses.” —Exodus 9:20 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 9:1–7, God sends a plague upon the livestock of Egypt while protecting Israel, clearly distinguishing His people from the Egyptians. Pharaoh sees the evidence but still hardens his heart.

Now in Exodus 9:8–21, God sends another plague—boils upon man and beast—followed by a warning of a coming hailstorm. For the first time, we see a division not just between Egypt and Israel, but among the Egyptians themselves based on how they respond to God’s word.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 9:8-21

The Plague of Boils

      8Then the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, “Take for yourselves handfuls of soot from a kiln, and let Moses throw it toward the sky in the sight of Pharaoh. 9“It will become fine dust over all the land of Egypt, and will become boils breaking out with sores on man and beast through all the land of Egypt.” 10So they took soot from a kiln, and stood before Pharaoh; and Moses threw it toward the sky, and it became boils breaking out with sores on man and beast. 11The magicians could not stand before Moses because of the boils, for the boils were on the magicians as well as on all the Egyptians. 12And the LORD hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he did not listen to them, just as the LORD had spoken to Moses.

      13Then the LORD said to Moses, “Rise up early in the morning and stand before Pharaoh and say to him, ‘Thus says the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, “Let My people go, that they may serve Me. 14“For this time I will send all My plagues on you and your servants and your people, so that you may know that there is no one like Me in all the earth. 15“For if by now I had put forth My hand and struck you and your people with pestilence, you would then have been cut off from the earth. 16“But, indeed, for this reason I have allowed you to remain, in order to show you My power and in order to proclaim My name through all the earth. 17“Still you exalt yourself against My people by not letting them go.

The Plague of Hail

      18“Behold, about this time tomorrow, I will send a very heavy hail, such as has not been seen in Egypt from the day it was founded until now. 19“Now therefore send, bring your livestock and whatever you have in the field to safety. Every man and beast that is found in the field and is not brought home, when the hail comes down on them, will die.”’” 20The one among the servants of Pharaoh who feared the word of the LORD made his servants and his livestock flee into the houses; 21but he who paid no regard to the word of the LORD left his servants and his livestock in the field.

Reflection on Exodus 9:8–21:
The plague of boils comes without warning. Moses and Aaron throw soot into the air, and it becomes fine dust that causes painful boils on people and animals throughout Egypt.

Even the magicians—who once stood in opposition—are now unable to stand before Moses because of the severity of the boils.

This is another escalation.

Those who once tried to imitate God’s power are now overwhelmed by it. The resistance that once appeared strong is steadily being broken down.

Yet Pharaoh still does not respond.

At this point in the account, we also begin to see a shift in how Scripture describes Pharaoh’s heart. Earlier, Pharaoh hardened his own heart and repeatedly chose to resist God. Now we see that the LORD hardens Pharaoh’s heart.

This does not mean God is forcing Pharaoh in a new direction. Rather, Pharaoh has already chosen to resist again and again, and his heart has become fixed in that decision. God now strengthens and confirms him in that path, allowing his resistance to continue.

In doing so, God ensures that the confrontation unfolds fully, so that His power and authority would be revealed more clearly to Egypt, to Israel, and to all who would hear of it.

God did not create Pharaoh’s rebellion—He sustained and used it to accomplish His greater purpose.

Then God does something different.

Before the next plague, He gives a clear warning.

He tells Pharaoh that a severe hailstorm is coming—unlike anything Egypt has ever seen. This storm will bring destruction to people, animals, and crops left in the field.

But along with the warning, God provides an opportunity.

He tells them to bring their servants and livestock into shelter to avoid the coming judgment.

This reveals something important about God’s character.

Even in judgment, He provides a way to respond.

Now, for the first time, we see a division among the Egyptians themselves.

Some of Pharaoh’s servants fear the word of the LORD and act on it. They bring their people and livestock into safety.

Others ignore the warning and leave everything in the field.

The difference is not nationality.
The difference is not position.
The difference is response.

Some hear God’s word and act.
Others hear and ignore it.

And that response determines the outcome.

This is a powerful moment.

Even while Pharaoh remains hardened, individuals within Egypt begin to respond rightly to God.

This shows that no one is without opportunity.

God speaks clearly.
God provides warning.
God offers a way to respond.

But each person must choose how they will respond.

For us, the question is the same.

When God speaks—through His Word, through conviction, through circumstances—do we take Him seriously enough to act?

Or do we delay, ignore, or assume the warning does not apply to us?

God is not silent.

And the difference is not whether we hear—but whether we respond.

Application:

  • Take God’s warnings seriously and respond with action.
  • Recognize that God provides opportunities to respond, even in difficult circumstances.
  • Examine whether you are listening to God or ignoring His word.
  • Understand that God is sovereign and can use even resistance to accomplish His purposes.
  • Choose to act in obedience rather than delay.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to take Your word seriously and respond when You speak. Give me a heart that fears You rightly—honoring You and acting in obedience. Keep me from ignoring Your warnings or delaying my response. Help me to trust in Your sovereignty and to follow You fully. 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.

Obeying God, Protector / Deliverer, Seeking God, Strong in Our Weakness, Submitted / Servant

Do You Belong to God? (Exodus 9:1-7)

Do you see clearly the difference between those who belong to God and those who do not?

Key Verse:
“But the LORD will make a distinction between the livestock of Israel and the livestock of Egypt, so that nothing will die of all that belongs to the sons of Israel.” —Exodus 9:4 NASB

Background Context:
In Exodus 8, God brings plagues upon Egypt and begins to clearly distinguish between His people and the Egyptians, while Pharaoh repeatedly hardens his heart and refuses to fully obey.

Now in Exodus 9:1–7, the plagues continue, and God further reveals His authority—not only through judgment, but through intentional protection of His people.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Exodus 9

Egyptian Cattle Die

      1Then the LORD said to Moses, “Go to Pharaoh and speak to him, ‘Thus says the LORD, the God of the Hebrews, “Let My people go, that they may serve Me. 2“For if you refuse to let them go and continue to hold them, 3behold, the hand of the LORD will come with a very severe pestilence on your livestock which are in the field, on the horses, on the donkeys, on the camels, on the herds, and on the flocks. 4“But the LORD will make a distinction between the livestock of Israel and the livestock of Egypt, so that nothing will die of all that belongs to the sons of Israel.”’” 5The LORD set a definite time, saying, “Tomorrow the LORD will do this thing in the land.” 6So the LORD did this thing on the next day, and all the livestock of Egypt died; but of the livestock of the sons of Israel, not one died. 7Pharaoh sent, and behold, there was not even one of the livestock of Israel dead. But the heart of Pharaoh was hardened, and he did not let the people go.

Reflection on Exodus 9:1–7:
God again sends Moses to Pharaoh with the same command:

“Let My people go, that they may serve Me.”

This has not changed.

God’s purpose is not simply to remove Israel from Egypt—it is to bring them into a relationship of worship and obedience.

When Pharaoh refuses, God sends a severe plague upon the livestock of Egypt. Horses, donkeys, camels, herds, and flocks are struck.

This is a major blow.

Livestock represented wealth, strength, transportation, food supply, and economic stability. This plague strikes directly at the resources Egypt depended on.

But once again, God does something very intentional.

He makes a distinction.

Not one of the livestock belonging to Israel dies.

This is not coincidence. It is not partial impact. It is complete separation.

God is making it unmistakably clear:

  •  He knows who belongs to Him
  • He protects what is His

This reinforces a truth that has been building through the plagues—God’s judgment is not random. It is precise, controlled, and purposeful.

Pharaoh even investigates.

He sends and confirms that Israel’s livestock are untouched.

The evidence is undeniable.

Yet his heart remains hardened.

This is sobering.

Pharaoh is not lacking information. He is not confused. He sees the difference clearly—and still refuses to submit.

This reveals something important about the human heart.

The issue is not always understanding—it is willingness.

God is making a clear distinction between His people and Egypt, but Pharaoh refuses to align himself with God, even when the path is obvious.

For us, this passage calls for reflection.

God still makes a distinction.

Those who belong to Him are set apart—not because they are better, but because they are His.

This does not mean they avoid all hardship, but it does mean they are under His care, His authority, and His purpose.

The question is not whether God is making the difference clear.

The question is whether we are willing to respond to it.

Pharaoh saw the evidence—and chose to resist.

We are given the same opportunity to see, understand, and respond.

Application:

  • Recognize that God clearly distinguishes those who belong to Him.
  • Do not ignore the evidence of God’s work in your life and in the world.
  • Understand that the issue is often not knowledge, but willingness to obey.
  • Choose to align yourself fully with God rather than resist Him.
  • Trust in God’s care and authority over your life.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You that You know those who belong to You and that You are faithful in all You do. Help me to respond to You with a willing heart and not resist when You make truth clear. Give me the courage to fully align my life with You and trust in Your authority. Thank You for Your protection, Your guidance, and Your 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 Knowing, Humility, Interceding for Others, Learning To Pray Effectively, Obeying God

When God Listens and Acts (Revelation 8 – Broader View)

Do you realize that your prayers are part of what God uses as He works in the world?

Key Verse:
“And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, went up before God out of the angel’s hand.” —Revelation 8:4 NASB

Background Context:
In Revelation 8, the seventh seal is opened, marking a transition in the unfolding of God’s plan. Instead of immediate judgment, there is a pause in heaven, followed by the sounding of the first four trumpets.

This chapter reveals a complete sequence—God listens to the prayers of His people, responds in His timing, and begins to act through measured judgment and warning.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Revelation 8

The Seventh Seal—the Trumpets

      1When the Lamb broke the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour. 2And I saw the seven angels who stand before God, and seven trumpets were given to them.

      3Another angel came and stood at the altar, holding a golden censer; and much incense was given to him, so that he might add it to the prayers of all the saints on the golden altar which was before the throne. 4And the smoke of the incense, with the prayers of the saints, went up before God out of the angel’s hand. 5Then the angel took the censer and filled it with the fire of the altar, and threw it to the earth; and there followed peals of thunder and sounds and flashes of lightning and an earthquake.

      6And the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound them.

      7The first sounded, and there came hail and fire, mixed with blood, and they were thrown to the earth; and a third of the earth was burned up, and a third of the trees were burned up, and all the green grass was burned up.

      8The second angel sounded, and something like a great mountain burning with fire was thrown into the sea; and a third of the sea became blood, 9and a third of the creatures which were in the sea and had life, died; and a third of the ships were destroyed.

      10The third angel sounded, and a great star fell from heaven, burning like a torch, and it fell on a third of the rivers and on the springs of waters. 11The name of the star is called Wormwood; and a third of the waters became wormwood, and many men died from the waters, because they were made bitter.

      12The fourth angel sounded, and a third of the sun and a third of the moon and a third of the stars were struck, so that a third of them would be darkened and the day would not shine for a third of it, and the night in the same way.

      13Then I looked, and I heard an eagle flying in midheaven, saying with a loud voice, “Woe, woe, woe to those who dwell on the earth, because of the remaining blasts of the trumpet of the three angels who are about to sound!”

Reflection on Revelation 8:
The chapter begins with silence.

Heaven, which had been filled with worship and proclamation, becomes quiet. This silence is not emptiness—it is reverence and anticipation. Something significant is about to happen.

Before anything else unfolds, the prayers of the saints are brought before God.

An angel offers incense mixed with these prayers, and they rise before Him. This moment reveals that the prayers of God’s people are not overlooked. They are received, valued, and remembered.

This connects to earlier cries in Revelation—those asking, “How long, O Lord?” Here we see that God has heard.

Then something remarkable happens.

The same censer used to present the prayers is filled with fire from the altar and cast to the earth. Thunder, lightning, and an earthquake follow.

This shows that God’s response is not passive.

He listens—and then He acts.

As the trumpets begin to sound, judgment is released upon the earth. The land, the sea, the waters, and the heavens are all affected. Each judgment is significant, yet limited—only a third is impacted.

This detail is important.

God is demonstrating restraint.

These are not final acts of destruction. They are warnings—clear, undeniable signs that call for attention and response. God is revealing His authority over all creation while still allowing opportunity for repentance.

Then comes a final warning.

An eagle flies through the sky declaring, “Woe, woe, woe…” to those who dwell on the earth. This makes it clear that what has happened so far is only the beginning.

This chapter reveals a powerful progression:

God listens.
God responds.
God warns.

Nothing is random.

God’s actions are intentional, measured, and purposeful. He is not distant from what is happening on the earth—He is actively involved, responding to His people and carrying out His plan.

For us, this brings both encouragement and responsibility.

It is encouraging to know that our prayers matter. They are part of God’s unfolding work, even when we do not immediately see the results.

It is also a call to respond.

God does not act without warning. He reveals truth, gives opportunity, and calls people to turn to Him. But those warnings must be taken seriously.

The question is not whether God is listening.

The question is whether we are.

Are we bringing our prayers before Him with faith?
Are we responding when He reveals Himself?
Are we recognizing His warnings and aligning our lives with Him?

God is both patient and just.

He listens.
He acts.
And He calls us to respond.

Application:

  • Be encouraged that your prayers are heard and matter to God.
  • Remain faithful in prayer, even when answers are not immediate.
  • Recognize that God’s actions are purposeful and not random.
  • Take the warnings God provides seriously.
  • Respond to God with obedience and humility when He reveals truth.

Closing Prayer:
Father, thank You that You hear my prayers and that they are not forgotten. Help me to remain faithful in seeking You, trusting in Your timing and Your purposes. Give me a heart that listens and responds when You reveal truth. Keep me from ignoring Your warnings, and guide me to walk in obedience and faith. 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.

Faith / Trusting God, Justice / Judgment, Merciful, Obeying God, Purposeful / Intentional, Repenting from Sin, Revelation, Seeking God

God Sends the Alarm Before Judgment (Revelation 8:6–13)

Are you paying attention to the warnings God gives—or ignoring them?

Key Verse:
“Then I looked, and I heard an eagle flying in midheaven, saying with a loud voice, ‘Woe, woe, woe to those who dwell on the earth…’” —Revelation 8:13 NASB

Background Context:
In Revelation 8:1–5, the seventh seal is opened, and there is silence in heaven as the prayers of the saints rise before God. That moment reveals that God hears and responds to His people.

Now in Revelation 8:6–13, the seven angels prepare to sound their trumpets, and the first four judgments are released. These events mark an escalation—but not a final end—revealing both God’s power and His continued warning to the world.

(Continued and expanded after scripture.)

Revelation 8:6-13

      6And the seven angels who had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound them.

      7The first sounded, and there came hail and fire, mixed with blood, and they were thrown to the earth; and a third of the earth was burned up, and a third of the trees were burned up, and all the green grass was burned up.

      8The second angel sounded, and something like a great mountain burning with fire was thrown into the sea; and a third of the sea became blood, 9and a third of the creatures which were in the sea and had life, died; and a third of the ships were destroyed.

      10The third angel sounded, and a great star fell from heaven, burning like a torch, and it fell on a third of the rivers and on the springs of waters. 11The name of the star is called Wormwood; and a third of the waters became wormwood, and many men died from the waters, because they were made bitter.

      12The fourth angel sounded, and a third of the sun and a third of the moon and a third of the stars were struck, so that a third of them would be darkened and the day would not shine for a third of it, and the night in the same way.

      13Then I looked, and I heard an eagle flying in midheaven, saying with a loud voice, “Woe, woe, woe to those who dwell on the earth, because of the remaining blasts of the trumpet of the three angels who are about to sound!”

Reflection on Revelation 8:6–13:
As the angels prepare to sound the trumpets, the tone shifts from silence to action. The first four trumpets bring devastating effects upon the earth—hail and fire, a burning mountain thrown into the sea, a star falling from heaven, and darkness striking the sun, moon, and stars.

Each trumpet impacts a different part of creation:

  • the land
  • the sea
  • fresh water
  • the heavens

This is not random destruction.

It is systematic, intentional, and controlled.

One detail stands out clearly—each judgment affects only a third.

This is important.

God is demonstrating restraint. The destruction is significant, but it is not total. This reveals that even in judgment, there is mercy. God is not yet bringing final destruction—He is warning.

These are not just acts of judgment—they are calls to repentance.

God is showing the world that:

  • He has authority over creation
  • He can disrupt what people depend on
  • He is actively intervening

Yet even with these signs, the pattern we have seen continues—people do not turn.

The imagery also echoes earlier Scripture. The plagues resemble those in Egypt, where God confronted Pharaoh and the false gods of the land. Just as in Exodus, God is revealing that what people trust in cannot stand against Him.

At the end of the passage, an eagle flies overhead declaring:

“Woe, woe, woe…”

This is a warning that what has happened so far is only the beginning. Greater judgments are still to come.

This moment should cause us to pause.

God does not bring judgment without warning.

He gives opportunity after opportunity for people to respond.

But warnings only matter if they are heeded.

For us, this passage is not just about future events—it is about how we respond to God now.

Are we paying attention when God reveals Himself?

Are we responding with humility and repentance?

Or are we ignoring the warnings, assuming there will always be more time?

God’s actions in Revelation show both His justice and His mercy. He does not act impulsively. He reveals, warns, and gives opportunity before final judgment comes.

The question is not whether God is speaking.

The question is whether we are listening.

Application:

  • Recognize that God gives warnings before final judgment.
  • Do not ignore signs that call you to repentance and obedience.
  • Trust that God is in control, even when events seem chaotic.
  • Respond to God’s truth now, rather than delaying.
  • Live with awareness that God’s patience has a purpose.

Closing Prayer:
Father, help me to recognize Your voice and respond when You reveal truth. Keep me from ignoring the warnings You provide, and give me a heart that is quick to repent and obey. Teach me to trust in Your control and to live with awareness of Your purpose. Thank You for Your patience and 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.

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)

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)

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.