Exodus 9:18-26 is about God demonstrating his power and authority over nature and mankind through the devastating plague of hail, emphasizing the consequences of disobedience and the importance of acknowledging and fearing the Lord.
18 Behold, about this time tomorrow I will cause very heavy hail to fall, such as never has been in Egypt from the day it was founded until now.
19 Now therefore send, get your livestock and all that you have in the field into safe shelter, for every man and beast that is in the field and is not brought home will die when the hail falls on them.”
20 Whoever feared the word of the Lord among the servants of Pharaoh hurried his slaves and his livestock into the houses,
21 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand toward heaven, so that there may be hail in all the land of Egypt, on man and beast and every plant of the field, in the land of Egypt.”
22 Then the Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand toward heaven, so that there may be hail in all the land of Egypt, on man and beast and every plant of the field, in the land of Egypt.”
23 Then Moses stretched out his staff toward heaven, and the Lord sent thunder and hail, and fire ran down to the earth. And the Lord rained hail upon the land of Egypt.
24 So there was hail, and fire flashing continually in the midst of the hail, very heavy hail, such as had never been in all the land of Egypt since it became a nation.
25 And the hail struck down everything that was in the field in all the land of Egypt, both man and beast. And the hail struck down every plant of the field and broke every tree of the field.
26 Only in the land of Goshen, where the people of Israel were, was there no hail.
Setting the Scene for Exodus 9:18-26
The scene in Exodus 9:18-26 takes place in the land of Egypt during the time when Moses and Aaron were sent by God to deliver the Israelites from their bondage. Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, had repeatedly refused to let the Israelites go, despite the plagues that were sent as signs of God’s power. In this particular passage, Moses is instructed by God to stretch out his hand towards the sky, causing a hailstorm to rain down upon the land of Egypt.
The hail was unlike any that had been seen before, with fire flashing amidst the hailstones. The storm destroyed crops, trees, and animals throughout the land, except for the region of Goshen where the Israelites lived. Pharaoh’s officials who feared the word of the Lord hurried to bring their slaves and livestock indoors to avoid the devastating hail. However, Pharaoh himself remained stubborn and unyielding, refusing to acknowledge the power of God.
The scene is filled with chaos and destruction as the hailstones pummel the land, causing widespread devastation. The contrast between the protection of the Israelites in Goshen and the suffering of the Egyptians highlights the power of God and the consequences of defying His will. The stubbornness of Pharaoh serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of pride and disobedience.
What is Exodus 9:18-26 about?
God’s sending of hail to punish Egypt while sparing the Israelites who obeyed Him showcases His power, justice, and protection over His people in this verse. It demonstrates how God’s actions are not arbitrary but are based on righteousness and obedience. The Israelites were able to experience God’s mercy and protection, even in the midst of a devastating plague like hail, by obeying Him.
Have you ever pondered how God’s judgment and mercy can coexist in these ancient stories? The contrast between the punishment inflicted on Egypt and the protection granted to the Israelites prompts reflection on the significance of obedience and faithfulness in God’s eyes. It invites us to consider how our own obedience to God’s commands can lead to blessings and safeguarding in our lives. As we meditate on this verse, let us remind ourselves of the importance of obedience and faith in our relationship with God. God continues to watch over and guide those who honor Him in their lives, just as He protected the Israelites who obeyed Him. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that God’s justice and mercy are intertwined, and that our obedience to Him can lead to His divine protection and favor in our lives.
Understanding what Exodus 9:18-26 really means
In the narrative of the ten plagues in Exodus, we come to the seventh plague, a devastating hailstorm sent by God upon Egypt. This event serves as a stark reminder of God’s power and the consequences of disobedience. The severity of the hailstorm is emphasized in the phrase, “I will send the worst hailstorm that has ever fallen on Egypt,” showcasing the magnitude of God’s might and the seriousness of His warnings. Despite the impending disaster, God offers a chance for protection by commanding Pharaoh to bring livestock and belongings to shelter, demonstrating His mercy even in judgment.
Interestingly, amidst the chaos, there were Egyptian officials who feared the word of the Lord and acted swiftly to protect their slaves and livestock. This highlights that even among those who did not worship the true God, there were individuals who recognized His power and authority. The passage also draws a clear distinction between the land of Goshen, where the Israelites resided, and the rest of Egypt. While hail ravaged the land, Goshen remained untouched, showcasing God’s protective hand over His people.
Drawing parallels from related Bible passages, such as Psalm 91:1-2 and the parable of the wise and foolish builders in Matthew 7:24-27, we see a consistent theme of God’s protection for those who trust in Him and heed His words. The story of Noah in Hebrews 11:7 further reinforces the importance of acting on God’s warnings to avoid calamity. These passages collectively emphasize the significance of listening to God’s guidance and obeying His commands.
The relevance of this passage to people today is profound. It serves as a reminder of the importance of heeding God’s warnings and commands in our lives. Just as those who took God’s warning seriously in Exodus found protection, we too can find safety and guidance by listening to God through scripture, prayer, and wise counsel. The anecdote of a community facing a natural disaster illustrates the consequences of ignoring warnings versus taking proactive steps to prepare and seek safety, mirroring the choices presented in Exodus.
In conclusion, Exodus 9:18-26 underscores God’s sovereignty, the value of obedience, and His unwavering care for His people. By reflecting on this passage and related scriptures, we are encouraged to trust in God’s guidance, take His warnings seriously, and find solace in His protective embrace. Just as God shielded the Israelites in Goshen from the hailstorm, He watches over us today, offering guidance, protection, and grace to all who seek Him.
How can we discern the true power of God?
The true power of God can be discerned through His ability to control and influence the elements of nature. God demonstrates His power by sending a severe hailstorm upon the land of Egypt in this particular passage. The sheer force and destruction caused by the hailstorm serve as a clear indication of God’s authority over the natural world.
Furthermore, the timing and precision of these events also showcase the true power of God. The fact that the hailstorm struck only the land of Egypt while sparing the land of Goshen where the Israelites dwelled highlights God’s ability to target and execute His judgments with accuracy and purpose. We ultimately see God’s power manifested in a way that is both awe-inspiring and undeniable through the events described in this passage. His control over nature, ability to execute precise judgments, and distinct separation of His people from harm all point to the true magnitude of His power.
Application
Reflect on how God’s power is evident in controlling the elements, as shown in Exodus 9:18-26. Let this passage remind you of God’s supremacy and the value of obeying His commands. Allow it to spark a desire to have faith in His plans and to synchronize your choices with His intentions. Are you ready to submit to God’s leadership and embrace His purpose for you?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.