Leaving Egypt Behind

Scripture: Exodus 9:20, The one among the servants of Pharaoh who feared the word of the Lord made his servants and his livestock flee into the houses; but he who paid no regard to the word of the Lord left his servants and his livestock in the field.

The signposts were clearly marked and the speed limits progressively became slower. Our amusement turned to appreciation as we wove along an ever narrowing, wooded coastal road. When we spotted the five mile per hour sign though, we couldn’t believe it, even though the guidelines until then had been acutely accurate. We chuckled. Someone must have a sense of humor. Then as we turned the narrow corner, we instinctively braked and slowed to two miles per hour for the incredibly steep downward curve. A diligent county official had placed a precise warning. We wondered if the swath of broken trees and crushed foliage on the right were evidence of accidents for those who also didn’t believe the caution.

God gave the Egyptians clear notice. The approaching hail would be unlike any ever seen. Those who brought in people and livestock would be safe. Anyone left in the fields would perish. God gave everyone the opportunity to live, to accept His protection.

Belief-disbelief. Obedience-defiance.

The previous plagues bore true witness to God’s words. Pharaoh’s population split. Many chose to listen. Many chose to ignore. Many innocent servants and animals died because of their owner’s denial.

Lord, keep me aware of the warning signs of disbelief in my life. Instead remind me to seek Your protection and Your safety when the road becomes treacherous.

Psalm of Worship: Psalm 12:6

The words of the Lord are pure words;

As silver tried in a furnace on the earth, refined seven times.