Fatal frame of mind

Moses and Aaron did all these wonders before Pharaoh; and the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he did not let the children of Israel go.      — Exodus 11:10

When Pharaoh refused to let the people of Israel leave Egypt, thousands of innocent Egyptians died because of his stubborn will. Perhaps the knowledge of what was about to happen to Egypt’s firstborn on that first Passover night caused the great anger Moses felt as he left Pharaoh (Ex. 11:8). It was going to be a night of devastation and sorrow because the ruler was in a fatal frame of mind.

It’s easy for me to condemn Pharaoh’s willful disobedience to God, and very difficult to face my own. But this passage forces me to ask, “Is my attitude choking the life out of someone close to me?”

Oswald Chambers said: “The right of life is insisted on all through the Bible. As long as I do not murder anyone outright the law cannot touch me, but is there someone dependent on me to whom in the tiniest way I am not giving the right to live? Someone for whom I am cherishing an unforgiving dislike? Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer’ (1 John 3:15).”

Our hearts become hard through repeated refusals to yield to God. But they can be softened by obedience. When we say “yes” to God, the result is relief and life-giving release for our families, colleagues, and friends.

What’s my frame of mind today? — David McCasland

I thank You for Your patience, Lord,

Because I often strayed,

But, O the joy that came my way

When I Thy Word obeyed. — Stairs

READ: Exodus 11

The way of obedience is the way of blessing.

The Bible in one year:

* 2 Chronicles 25-27

• Proverbs 3:1-10