Primary Text for the next two weeks: Exodus 3:1 – 12:32
Before we begin with the next of Pharaoh’s compromises; it might be a good idea to review a brief synopsis of the ten plagues. The tenth plague stands alone; it is separated from all of the others because of its special relation to Israel and their redemption. But the other nine plagues seem to arrive in groups of three... each group of three begins with a warning prior to each of the first two plagues, then the third plague comes without warning. This is significant because it helps us remember that God will not always strive with man (c.f., Genesis 6:3), furthermore, warnings repeated but unheeded will be followed by sudden and terrible judgement.
Today we will explore Pharaoh’s second compromise; but since the first was no compromise, this will be Pharaoh’s first real measure of compromise. The warning of the staff which became a serpent had no effect on Pharaoh because it was replicated through the secret arts of his magicians; even though Aaron’s serpent/staff swallowed up the others. The first plague of water turning to blood happens, again the warning was unheeded. Then frogs covered the land, but once the frogs were gone, so was the concern. The plague of lice, or as recorded in some translations ‘gnats’, comes suddenly without warning. Pharaoh’s heart remains hard. So the first set of three plagues passes without compromise (c.f., Exodus 7:8 - 8:19).
The fourth plague (Exodus 8:20-25), the plague of flies demonstrates God making a distinction between the Egyptians and the Hebrews who were His people, and it comes with a strong warning. It is not until the fourth plague (introducing the second set of three) occurs that Pharaoh issues his first real compromise:
Exodus 8:25 (NIV) Then Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron and said, “Go, sacrifice to your God here in the land.”
Sounds okay, doesn’t it? But it is not okay! Earlier the king had set the tone when he told Moses and Aaron, “...why are you taking the people away from their labor? Get back to your work!” (v. 5:4) God’s command was given in no uncertain terms; there was to be a complete separation of His people unto Himself! If we could relate Pharaoh’s compromise in today’s terms for Christianity, perhaps it is that staying “in the land” is similar to “remaining in the world.” The world has no use for Christianity and time going to church is “wasted” time. Time away from the routines of work and play.
James 4:4 (NIV) You adulterous people, don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God? Therefore anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
This verse is often misused and taken out of context. It is a warning that adapting to the world’s view – the world’s standards – cannot coincide with being a follower of God’s will and way. He desires a holy people; a people set apart from the world’s ways. Yet that is the temptation Christians face; we don’t want to stand out; we want to have, and to do, all the fun things the world offers. Sadly, there are numerous modern churches whose “worship services” become more of entertainment shows than honoring to God. That was Pharaoh’s compromise back then... okay, be a Hebrew, just stay in the land. And it is still Satan’s compromise to us today... okay, be a Christian, just stay in the world.
Almighty and Gracious God,
It is so easy to compromise with the world. This is not what you desire. You desire Christians to live a life that is holy, set apart, dedicated and focused on You. Forgive our failings. Strengthen our resolve to love you more, serve you more, honor you with our whole being.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
The devotional Stay in the Land appeared first on Write From My Heart at https://writefrommyheartblog.blogspot.com
Email: Dotty Willmon, writefrommyheartblog@gmail.com
Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from The Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®, Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
