
The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan
Sunday, January 29, 2023
EXODUS 8:1-9:35, MATTHEW 19:13-30, PSALM 24:1-10, PROVERBS 6:1-5
Download or Print the One Year Bible Reading Plan
Guiding Scripture: Exodus 8:15, “But when Pharaoh saw that there was relief, he hardened his heart and did not listen to them, as the Lord had said.”
The Lie of Good Intentions?!
Written By: Torrie Slaughter
To what are you saying” I’ll just wait”,?
The saying, ‘be mindful of what you believe’ certainly applies to today’s passage. With so many things vying for our attention and people wanting us to follow their beliefs it is essential to have a discerning heart and follow God’s truth.
Why?
History. a famous philosopher once wrote, “If we do not learn from it we are doomed to repeat it.”
Stiff-necked
The Egyptians suffered because of Pharaoh’s stubborn heart. They were the unfortunate casualties of a battle between good and evil. The people had to live with the consequences of Pharaoh’s leadership. His prideful heart ultimately led to his death drowning in the Red Sea. And an army of others willing to pledge their lives to his cause.
Our Cross?
Suffering for man is not what we are called to do. We may suffer in bringing God’s word to those who reject Christ. But God gives us relief so that we can see that hope is found in Him.
No Transformation
Pharaoh refused to make the change. Pharaoh was content to live with the stench of the frogs. Seeing the piles of dead amphibious decay rotting below his palace window. His demonic anger fueled his contempt for God and the Israelites. Power and competition guided his emotional leadership. And his people were the victims of his emotions.
Alternative
That did not have to be the case. If Pharoah were willing to stand up to the enemy dictating his actions his life would have been saved. He begged Moses and Aaron to cleanse the land of the frogs promising to release the Israelsites. But like Satan, Pharaoh lied. Going back on his word refusing safe passage to the children of Israel. Pharaoh lied and continued to lie. He was competing against God taking advantage of God’s grace in the temporary relief he felt.
Brothers and Sisters
There will be people who will intentionally make our lives more difficult because of their position of power. Or simply because they want to maintain a sense of control. We must decide to follow God and His plan separating ourselves from them. It may mean doing it slowly or quickly ripping off the bandage. The painful shock may hurt for a little while but, joy will come. Seeking God brings gladness to our hearts and that is something the enemy can not take away.
Guard your joy in the midst of the frogs jumping all over you creating chaos. Pay attention to the reprieve God gives so you can make an exit into a future with God.
Connect with Torrie via www.torrieslaughter.com
Torrie is a media ministry consultant who works with churches and faith driven organizations to build their ministry team, grow their online presence, improve communication with staff and volunteers by creating systems designed to combat inertia. Want to hear more? Tune in and listen to A Daily Purpose Bible Study & Devotional a podcast by Our Given Purpose and on Fridays to Talking on Purpose with Torrie the Podcast. Torrie also hosts a YouTube channel of the same name.