8:1-7 Again. On the one hand, almost everything seen in these verses follows the pattern that we’ve already come across with Pharaoh in chapter 7. Yet, as is common throughout the Bible, repetition helps us to see points that we may have missed the first time around. It also helps us to see when something does not match the pattern, which will be the case here.

8:8-15 Harder. Pharaoh seeks relief from the plague. The Lord, in his grace, does exactly as Pharaoh asks, and yet Pharaoh breaks his word and refuses to let God’s people go. His heart is hard even when God works a miracle for him!

The Point: God’s authority and power will, in fact, prevail over the hard heart of Pharaoh – and every heart that opposes him.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, too often our own hearts are hard toward you. We think of ourselves as on the throne rather than wanting to see your Son rule over everyone and everything – including us! Change our hard hearts by your grace that we would enjoy and yearn for Christ’s rule. Help us to hope in him as we serve and suffer and wait for his return.

Application: Do you trust Jesus Christ as your Savior-King? There is no other way to enjoy eternity. And if you do embrace Jesus, how will you tell of his good plans to somebody else this week? How can you encourage a fellow Christian as they endure hardship for following after Jesus?

Here is how I will apply these truths: ___________________

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