“And the LORD appointed a set time, saying, To morrow the LORD shall do this thing in the land.”
This verse is part of the narrative of the ten plagues that God brought upon the land of Egypt as a demonstration of His power and judgment. In this specific plague, the fifth one, God announces through Moses that He will strike down the livestock of the Egyptians.
To gain a deeper understanding of this verse, let’s explore the context and key themes related to Exodus 9:5:
- Divine Appointments:The verse begins by emphasising that the Lord appointed a set time. This highlights God’s sovereignty and control over the unfolding events. God had determined when this specific plague would occur, and His timing was precise. It demonstrates that God is not bound by human timetables but operates according to His perfect plan.
- God’s Pronouncement:The verse continues by relaying the message Moses received from God. The Lord declared that the following day, He would bring about the plague of livestock deaths in the land of Egypt. This pronouncement showcases God’s authority and His ability to carry out His words. It underscores that God’s judgments are not arbitrary but purposeful and intentional.
- God’s Power and Intervention:The verse reveals that it is the Lord Himself who will execute the judgment. God actively involves Himself in the affairs of humanity, demonstrating His power and sovereignty over all creation. This emphasises that God is not distant or detached but actively working in the world to accomplish His purposes.
- The Plague of Livestock Deaths:The specific judgment mentioned in this verse is the fifth plague, where God causes the death of the Egyptian livestock. By targeting the livestock, God not only strikes a blow to the Egyptian economy and sustenance but also challenges their false gods, such as Hathor, the goddess of cattle. This plague serves as a clear demonstration of God’s superiority over the gods of Egypt.
- Faithfulness of God’s Word:This verse highlights the faithfulness of God’s word. He announces what He will do, and He fulfils His promise at the appointed time. This consistency and reliability of God’s word demonstrate His trustworthiness and reliability.
Overall, Exodus 9:5 showcases God’s sovereignty, power, faithfulness, and intervention in the affairs of humanity. It reminds us that God has a plan and a purpose in His judgments, and His timing is perfect. It also serves as a reminder of the consequences of opposing God and the futility of relying on false gods or idols.
