“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people.” (Proverbs 14:34) Egypt was judged for their acts of unrighteousness. First, they were not grateful to Joseph. Second, they oppressed the children of Israel. Third, they killed male children of Hebrews. Four, when God spoke through Moses to let His people go, Pharaoh refused and questioned God. Lord had foretold Abraham that his descendants will be slaves for about four hundred years; he will judge the Nation. (Genesis 15:14)
1) Pseudo Gods: The false gods of Egypt were judged. (Exodus 12:12) Egyptians worshiped many gods, including River Nile, Pharaoh and others. The false gods that provided them a false sense of security were helpless and hapless victims.
2) Agriculture: The plagues also destroyed the crops, all green trees. Joseph saved Egypt from such famine, now God judged Egypt with scarcity of food.
3) Economy: The cattle of Egypt also were destroyed. The cattle are important for the ancient economy.
4) Health and hygiene: There were health issues of people and public hygiene. Plagues like flies, frogs and hails threaten our health. Heaps of dead frogs stunk and were a health hazard.
5) Livelihood: The Egyptians enjoyed the free service of Children of Israel. They did not bother to work. Suddenly, when the Israelite left, they had to work, which they were not used to. Also, they neither had the experience nor the expertise.
6) Military: Six hundred chariots drowned in the Red Sea along with the riders. (Exodus 14:7,8, 28) Earlier all the Egyptians lost their first born. (Exodus 12:29)
7) Pharoah: Egyptians believed that Pharoah was God. Hence, he had the audacity to ask Moses Who is God? But Pharaoh said, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord, and moreover, I will not let Israel go.” (Exodus 5:2) The Political leadership of Pharoah was finished as he also drowned in the Red Sea.
God not only judges’ individuals, he judges communities and nations.
Do I know God’s Sovereign authority?