“Then the magicians said to Pharaoh, “This is the finger of G-d.” But Pharaoh’s heart grew hard, and he did not heed them, just as the Lord had said.”
Exodus 8:19 NKJV
It only took 3 plagues for the magicians to see and believe the power of G-d was behind the plagues.
We study the plagues annually during Passover and based on what I can surmise, G-d sent the 10 plagues for two primary reasons – judgement/justice against those who oppressed His people and refused to repent and to show His power- His power to save and His power above all of the Egyptian gods. As an interesting note, 10 is the number of completion.
Each plague spoke to the various gods the Egyptians worshipped. You can read more about them here: http://www.stat.rice.edu/~dobelman/Dinotech/10_Eqyptian_gods_10_Plagues.pdf
The magicians duplicated the first two plagues with their sorcery – but after the third, even they recognized the supernatural power of G-d. It didn’t take them long. And, even some of Pharaoh’s own servants began to believe and obey after the 7th plague (Exodus 9:20)!
How often do we SEE the power or G-d at work and deny Him? He is gracious to come to us over and over – patiently pursuing us – clearly showing His power above all others – giving us opportunities to repent and obey.
G-d may not send plagues today like He did then, but I have experienced – more than once – how miserable it is to delay obedience.
G-d is more powerful than anything we face and anything happening to us today. He is greater than our disobedience and doubts. He is exalted over our fear and our past – no matter how battered, no matter how broken, I am proof that He is bigger.
May we find rest today that our G-d is able to fight any battle before us. If He, by merely His finger, could defeat the Egyptian gods, just imagine the protection, security, and provision that comes from being positioned under His wing (Psalms 91)!
Father, thank you for Your provision and protection. Thank You that You show us a better way. Help me to trust You in the battles I face today. I have many I love facing battles – give them grace and strengthen their hearts. Draw them close. You are good. Your leadership in my life is perfect and You can be trusted. Amen.