Exodus·Chapter 7

How to Apply

To live out this verse, take some time to reflect on your own heart. Are there areas in your life where you’re being stubborn or resistant to change? This week, try to identify one specific belief or habit that might be holding you back. Then, take a small step toward being open to change. It could be having a conversation with someone, trying something new, or even journaling your feelings. Just like Pharaoh was faced with signs, you can start to notice the signs in your life that are calling you toward growth and transformation.

Chapter Context

Now, let’s zoom out a bit. This verse is nestled in a gripping story where Moses, chosen by God, is confronting Pharaoh to free the Israelites from slavery. Up until this point, Moses has been hesitant, but God reassures him that He will perform amazing signs to show His power. This specific verse comes right before a series of miraculous events – think plagues, parting seas, and more! It sets the stage for the dramatic showdown between Moses and Pharaoh, highlighting that despite all these wonders, Pharaoh's heart will remain hard. It raises the stakes and makes you wonder: What will it take for Pharaoh to change his mind?

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• harden - 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".
• my - 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".
• in - 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".

Reflection Question

When you think about God hardening Pharaoh's heart, what feelings or thoughts does that stir up in you about your own ability to change or grow?

Related Verses

• Romans 9:17 - This verse connects because it talks about how God raised up Pharaoh for a purpose, similar to how God is using him here.
• Deuteronomy 2:30 - This verse shows how God also hardened the hearts of other nations, indicating a theme of divine influence in human decisions.
• Isaiah 63:17 - Written around 700 years before Exodus, this verse reflects on the idea of people turning away from God and how that can lead to hardening hearts.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Exodus 7:3. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Divine Authority, Judgment Against Egypt, Hardening of Heart, Obedience to God, Miraculous Signs, God's Deliverance, Power Struggle

Key Verses

Exodus 7:1, Exodus 7:5, Exodus 7:12, Exodus 7:17, Exodus 7:20

Historical Context

Exodus 7 is situated within the broader narrative of Israel's enslavement in Egypt and their impending liberation. The chapter introduces the first act of judgment against Egypt, setting the stage for the plagues that will follow. Understanding Pharaoh's hardened heart is crucial for interpreting the unfolding events, as it reflects both divine sovereignty and human obstinacy. This chapter highlights the tension between God's purposes and human resistance, which is a central theme throughout the Exodus narrative. It also serves to reinforce the identity of God as the deliverer of Israel and the supreme authority over all nations.