Exodus: Chapter by ChapterSample

When Stubbornness Stands in the Way

I’ve noticed that my default as a human is to lean toward my own way, to do things how I want, when I want. Looking back, that posture has led me down paths that slowly pulled my heart away from God. It’s easy to point out stubbornness in a family member or friend, but if we’re honest, aren’t we often spiritually stubborn too? We resist surrender, delay obedience, or negotiate with God instead of submitting to Him.

In these chapters, God displays His unmatched power through signs and plagues, each one exposing the emptiness of Egypt’s false gods. Over and over, God makes His authority clear, but Pharaoh refuses to yield. His heart grows harder, not because God is unclear, but because pride blinds him to the truth right in front of him. Resistance doesn’t make Pharaoh stronger; it traps him deeper in bondage.

At the same time, God makes a clear distinction between Egypt and His people. While chaos and judgment fall on the land, God protects those who trust Him. Obedience places Israel under God’s covering, while stubbornness keeps Pharaoh locked in resistance and loss.

This contrast is sobering. Resisting God never leads to freedom; it only tightens the grip of bondage. But obedience, even when it’s difficult or humbling, always moves us toward life, protection, and freedom. God’s commands are not meant to control us; they are meant to rescue us.

Respond to God’s Word:

• Where might stubbornness or pride be keeping you from obeying God fully?
• Ask the Lord for a humble heart that is quick to surrender and willing to trust His ways over your own.