“But the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he did not let the sons of Israel go.” Exodus 10:20
Moses and Aaron have given God’s directive to Pharaoh; to let His People go a 3 day’s journey into the Wilderness and hold a Sacred Feast. It has been clear and concise, and yet each time given, Pharaoh has resisted. He then experiences God’s judgement upon his Nation. But repeatedly and patiently, Moses communicates the same demands and experiences the same resistance. Even those that counsel the King begin to plea, “How long shall this man be a snare to us? Let the people go, so that they may serve the Lord their God. Do you not yet realize that Egypt is destroyed?” But he would not listen. Why is that? Today’s Verse gives us that Insight. “The Lord” has hardened Pharaoh’s heart!
God’s work on earth is often a Mystery. We can’t see inside the heart of those that make their choices and decisions; it is hidden. But today, God has pulled back the curtain a bit and revealed to us “Why”. Consider: God’s People have cried out to Him for deliverance. Pharaoh, who has sole authority to let them go, stands in their way. But rather than change his heart and let them depart, God hardens it! Why would He do this? Doesn’t He want His People to leave? Couldn’t He from the beginning do this? WHY? In Chapter 9, God reveals why; “in order to show you My power and in order to proclaim My name through all the earth.” God’s Glory!
Today, we may find ourselves in similar circumstances. We may be struggling with an Injustice, an Offense, Unsaved loved ones, etc. Why doesn’t He intervene and change hearts? He has the Power. Why doesn’t He act? Perhaps for the same reason; His Glory! May God give us Grace to see this and bow in humble submission!!!