February 1, 2017

Insights on Today's Reading

Moving into the month of February brings us into the exodus of Israel out of Egypt and their wanderings in the wilderness as they head toward the Promised Land.  Included you will read of the Mosaic Law delivered from Mt. Sinai.  A lot of rich and rewarding events happened in Israel's travels.  May you learn much as you continue to read.  Don't give up!

Exodus 7 - Moses and Aaron renew their confrontation of Pharaoh.  Aaron's rod  is cast down to become a snake and eats the rods of the magicians.  He causes the Nile River and all streams to become blood.  Pharaoh's heart is hardened.  This begins God's attack against the gods/idols of Egypt by showing His power over them.

Exodus 8 - The next plague is frogs covering the land.  Though Pharaoh pleads for relief, he doesn't soften his heart.  The gnats swarm the land and Pharaoh's magicians can't repeat that!  Pharaoh remained stubborn.  The next plague are the flies.  With this judgment God makes clear that the Israelites will not be affected.  Pharaoh tries to get Moses to agree to have their worship within Egypt.

Exodus 9 - Now God attacks Egypt's livestock and then boils break out on people.  The Lord hardens Pharaoh's heart.  After this the Lord sends hail upon the land.  Once again Pharaoh promises release of the people if God stops the plagues.  When God stops the hail Pharaoh refuses to keep his promise.