When the leadership of a nation does not listen to God’s voice, would face disaster. God commanded Pharaoh to let go of Israel, who came as guests but are now slaves. He did not listen to God’s voice; instead, he hardened his heart and disobeyed, inviting the wrath of God, which was manifested in the Ten Plagues.
Hardening of the heart: Sovereign and all-knowing God knew Pharaoh would harden his heart, and the Lord would harden his heart further. (Exodus 4:21, 7:3, 14:4, 14:17) Three times Pharaoh hardened his own heart. (Exodus 8:15, 8:32, 9:34) Five times the reason for hardening is not provided. (Exodus 7:13. 7:22, 8:19, 9:7, 9:35) Six times, God hardened the heart of Pharaoh. (Exodus 9:12, 10:1, 10:20, 10:27, 11:10, 14:8)
Assumed as God: Pharaoh believed that he was god himself. Politically, the nation was powerful. Economically, it was sustained by the contribution of slaves; releasing them would be a disaster. He rebelliously refused to recognize Jehovah as the true God. Initially, it was Pharaoh who hardened his heart.
Path chosen: God confirmed what Pharaoh had chosen. He chose an evil path, with wicked reasoning and pride. The Lord allowed him to be further hardened in his rebellion and stubbornness, so that God’s ultimate judgment could come upon him.
Power of God: As Pharaoh’s heart was hardened, God’s power also manifested. The magicians recognized that it was the ‘finger of God.’ (Exodus 8:19) To God belongs the power and authority, and He had intervened on behalf of the Hebrew slaves. Yet, Pharaoh refused to acknowledge the Sovereign authority and obey Him. Warnings, signs, and plagues did not bring a contrite heart in Pharaoh. One person’s rebellion led to disaster for the whole Empire.
Some believed: Some of Pharaoh’s officials saved themselves, servants, and the flock during the plague of hail by bringing them under a roof. Some urged the Pharaoh to let Israel go free. A few of them joined Israel as they left Egypt and are termed the mixed multitude. (Exodus 12:38)
Do I harden my heart to disobey God?