“Exodus 9:17–18 — God’s Judgment on Egypt and the Power of His Word | Speaking to God”

 

“As yet exaltest thou thyself against my people, that thou wilt not let them go?
Behold, to morrow about this time I will cause it to rain a very grievous hail,
such as hath not been in Egypt since the foundation thereof even until now.”
— Exodus 9:17–18 (KJV)

By this point in Exodus, Pharaoh had already witnessed six devastating plagues — water turned to blood, frogs filling the land, lice and flies spreading misery, livestock dying, and painful boils breaking out across Egypt. Each of these was more than a punishment — it was a divine message. God was patiently showing Pharaoh that His power was greater than Egypt’s gods. Yet, despite the overwhelming evidence, Pharaoh’s heart remained hardened.

Now, God’s tone shifts. Through Moses, He delivers a final warning before sending a storm unlike anything Egypt had ever known — a hailstorm of judgment. This was not just another natural disaster. It was a direct confrontation between human pride and divine authority.

⚡ “You Still Exalt Yourself”

God’s charge against Pharaoh reveals the true root of his rebellion: self-exaltation.

“As yet exaltest thou thyself against my people, that thou wilt not let them go?”

Pharaoh’s greatest sin wasn’t ignorance — it was pride. He positioned himself as a god over Egypt, demanding control even over the lives of God’s chosen people. Pride blinded him to truth and hardened his heart to correction. He wasn’t merely resisting Moses; he was resisting God Himself.

Pride is deceptive because it feels like strength, but it leads to destruction. Pharaoh believed his throne was unshakable — yet, with one word, God would shake the heavens above him.

🌧️ “Tomorrow, the Storm Will Fall”

God’s next words reveal both justice and mercy.

“Behold, to morrow about this time I will cause it to rain a very grievous hail…”

Even in warning Pharaoh, God gave him time to respond — a full day to humble himself and obey.
But Pharaoh’s pride left him deaf to mercy.

The sky that once brought light would soon unleash destruction — proving once again that everything under heaven belongs to the Lord.

When God warned Pharaoh about the coming hail, it wasn’t only a threat — it was an invitation to mercy. Even after six plagues, the Lord extended another opportunity for repentance. Before the storm fell, He gave Pharaoh time to act. Before judgment struck, He offered grace.

This moment reveals something profound about God’s nature: He warns because He loves. Every divine warning is a doorway to safety. Every pause before judgment is proof of mercy.

Pharaoh could have avoided destruction. The command was clear — to let God’s people go and honor His authority. But instead of bowing in humility, Pharaoh stood in pride. He mistook God’s patience for weakness, not realizing that mercy delayed is not mercy denied.

🌧️ Obedience Is Protection When the hail finally came, it devastated Egypt — crops, trees, and livestock were shattered beneath the violent storm. Yet not everyone suffered. Scripture tells us that some Egyptians believed the word of the Lord and brought their servants and animals inside for shelter (Exodus 9:20). They listened — and they were spared.

This teaches us a vital truth: obedience creates safety. God’s commands are not burdens; they are boundaries of love. The same voice that warned Egypt now speaks to us — calling us to take shelter in His presence before life’s storms arrive.

Disobedience leaves us exposed. But those who trust God’s word find protection in His promise.

💭 The Danger of Pride Pharaoh’s tragedy was that he heard the warning but refused to listen. Pride deafens the soul; it convinces us we are in control even as everything crumbles around us. He had seen miracles yet explained them away. He had felt God’s power yet resisted His purpose.

Pride blinds, but humility opens our eyes to mercy.

🌩️ Final Reflection Every storm God sends carries both judgment and grace. To the rebellious, it reveals His power; to the humble, it reveals His protection.

Before the hail fell, there was a chance to repent. Before destruction came, there was space to return. God’s mercy always precedes His justice — and those who listen before the storm always find peace beneath His shelter.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This devotional is for inspirational and educational purposes only and does not replace professional counseling, therapy, or pastoral guidance.
Always take time to study Scripture prayerfully and seek spiritual direction through the Holy Spirit.
Some links or resources associated with this message may include affiliate partnerships that help support the Speaking to God ministry at no extra cost to you.
May every word draw you closer to the One who calms every storm and guards your heart with peace that surpasses all understanding.

Support our Ministry

Visit Spotify