Exodus·Chapter 10

How to Apply

To live out this verse, take a moment this week to reflect on an area of your life where you might be resisting change. It could be a habit, a relationship, or even a belief that’s no longer serving you. Write it down and think about why you’re holding onto it. Then, consider taking a small step toward openness—whether it’s having a difficult conversation, trying something new, or simply acknowledging your feelings. Just like Pharaoh's hardening heart had significant consequences, your choices can lead to growth or stagnation. Choose the path that leads to freedom.

Chapter Context

Leading up to this verse, the chapter is filled with dramatic events—the plagues that have been sent to Egypt, each one escalating in intensity. The Israelites are desperate for freedom, and Pharaoh has been given multiple chances to change his mind. Instead, he continues to resist, driven by pride and fear. This specific moment marks a critical turning point in the chapter: Pharaoh’s hardening heart signals that the end is near for his reign and that the Israelites are nearing their long-awaited freedom. You can feel the tension building as you realize that Pharaoh’s stubbornness is not just a personal flaw; it’s a pivotal part of the story that will lead to an unforgettable climax. The stakes couldn't be higher, and this verse captures that moment perfectly.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• lord - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• hardened - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• pharaoh’s - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• heart - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• let - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• of - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• go - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What is one area of your life where you might be hardening your heart against change, and how can you begin to soften it?

Related Verses

• Romans 9:17 - This verse connects because it speaks about God raising Pharaoh up to show His power, highlighting how our choices can impact a larger story.
• Exodus 7:3 - Earlier in Exodus, God states that He will harden Pharaoh’s heart, showing that this was part of a bigger plan to deliver the Israelites.
• Proverbs 28:14 - This verse talks about the blessing of being open-hearted versus the dangers of hardening your heart, which resonates with Pharaoh’s story.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Exodus 10:20. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Divine Judgement, God's Sovereignty, Pharaoh's Stubbornness, Call to Worship, Consequences of Sin, Generational Lessons, Compromise and Reluctance

Key Verses

Exodus 10:1-2, Exodus 10:3-4, Exodus 10:14, Exodus 10:16-17, Exodus 10:20

Historical Context

Exodus 10 is situated within a series of divine plagues intended to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. The narrative highlights the ongoing struggle between Moses, as God's representative, and Pharaoh, who embodies resistance to God's will. This chapter follows the seventh plague, hail, which decimated much of Egypt's agricultural landscape. The locusts serve as a continuation of the theme of judgment against Egypt's false gods and the oppressive system of slavery. The repeated hardening of Pharaoh's heart underscores the theological theme of divine sovereignty, as God uses Pharaoh's obstinacy to demonstrate His power and to fulfill His covenant promises to Israel. This chapter invites readers to reflect on the nature of repentance and the consequences of a hardened heart.