The 10 Plagues of Egypt: Pharaoh’s Greatest Mistake

Exodus 7-12: Lessons from Pharaoh’s Stubbornness and God’s Power

The Promise of Freedom

Moses brought hope to the Israelites. He assured them that God had seen their suffering and would rescue them. At first, they rejoiced. However, instead of freedom, their workload increased. Now, they had to make bricks without straw. As a result, they became discouraged and lost faith in Moses’ words.

Moses and Aaron Confront Pharaoh

Moses turned to God, who reassured him that the Israelites would be freed. Therefore, following God’s command, Moses and Aaron approached Pharaoh. They demanded that he let the Israelites worship the Lord.

Pharaoh, however, was skeptical. So, he asked for a miracle. In response, Aaron threw his staff on the ground, and it turned into a snake. Pharaoh’s magicians did the same, yet Aaron’s snake swallowed theirs. Even so, Pharaoh refused to listen.

The 10 Plagues of Egypt

Since Pharaoh continued to defy God, Egypt suffered ten devastating plagues. Each one revealed God’s power:

1. Water Turns to Blood – The Nile became undrinkable.
2. Frogs Overran the Land – Frogs filled homes and streets.
3. Lice Infestation – Dust turned into lice.
4. Swarms of Flies – Flies covered the land.
5. Livestock Disease – Many animals died.
6. Painful Boils – Sores covered people’s bodies.
7. Destructive Hailstorm – Crops and property were destroyed.
8. Locust Invasion – Locusts ate all remaining crops.
9. Thick Darkness – Darkness covered Egypt for days.
10. Death of the Firstborn – Every firstborn male in Egypt died.

At times, Pharaoh promised to let the Israelites go. Nevertheless, once the suffering ended, he changed his mind. Even his officials recognized God’s power and urged him to surrender. Yet, he remained stubborn.

The Final Plague: Death of the Firstborn

Once again, Moses warned Pharaoh. If he continued to refuse, every firstborn in Egypt—both human and animal—would die. Still, Pharaoh did not listen.

Because of this, God gave the Israelites a command. They had to mark their doorposts with lamb’s blood. That night, the Lord struck down every firstborn in Egypt. However, He spared the Israelites who obeyed.

At midnight, cries of sorrow filled the land. Every Egyptian household suffered loss. Meanwhile, not a single Israelite was harmed.

Pharaoh Finally Releases the Israelites

Overcome with grief, Pharaoh finally called Moses and Aaron. He ordered them to leave Egypt along with all their people. The Egyptians, fearing further disaster, urged them to go quickly.

After 430 years in Egypt, the Israelites set out for the Promised Land.

The Lesson: The Dangers of Stubbornness

Pharaoh’s downfall came from his refusal to listen. Stubbornness often leads to unnecessary suffering. When we ignore guidance, we create our own struggles.

For this reason, it is important to listen to parents, teachers, and mentors. Their wisdom helps us make better choices. The story of Pharaoh teaches that a hardened heart leads to destruction. On the other hand, an open mind brings growth and blessings.

By choosing faith, obedience, and humility, we can overcome challenges with wisdom and grace.

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