READING: Exodus 10-12, Matthew 18:21-19:12
God had already plagued the nation of Egypt with multiple calamities, and the next one in line would be swarms of locusts. Even though Pharaoh’s officials warned him otherwise, still he was not willing to let God’s people go. When he learned Moses intended to take the entire people and their flocks to the wilderness to worship, Pharaoh responded with this intriguing statement: “The Lord would have to be with you if I would ever let you and your families go!” (Exo 10:10).
Scholars differ in how they understand this statement, but it’s likely Pharaoh was saying, “I’m not letting you go anywhere with your entire people. In fact, if I ever let you go, that’ll prove your God is with you”—though he was not convinced that would happen. His words were more sarcastic than affirming, more ridiculing than accepting. Instead, he was convinced Moses intended to do evil.
In some ways, Pharaoh unknowingly announced truth within his sarcasm. If God’s people escaped Egypt, it would indeed be because their God was with Him. He alone would eventually lead them out, protect them from the death angel, and direct them miraculously across the Red Sea. God was with them—and that’s all that mattered.
He’s also with us, by the way. Remember that truth today.
PRAYER: “Thank You, God, for being with us. All is well because of Your presence.”
DAILY ACTION STEP: If you face a tough situation today, lean on God’s presence.
TOMORROW’S READING: Weekend is for catch-up and review.
MONDAY’S READING: Exodus 13-15, Matthew 19:13-20:16