“Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron, and said, Intreat the Lord, that he may take away the frogs from me, and from my people; and I will let the people go, that they may do sacrifice unto the Lord.”
Context: The book of Exodus recounts the story of the Israelites’ liberation from slavery in Egypt. God sent Moses and Aaron to Pharaoh to demand the release of the Israelites, and as a sign of His power and authority, God performed various miracles, known as the ten plagues, upon Egypt. Exodus 8:8 occurs during the second plague, which involved an infestation of frogs.
Pharaoh’s Response: Pharaoh, confronted with the affliction of frogs, called upon Moses and Aaron to intercede on his behalf to the Lord. This is a notable shift in Pharaoh’s attitude because previously, he had hardened his heart and refused to acknowledge the power of God. The plague of frogs had affected Pharaoh personally, and it led him to acknowledge the need for divine intervention.
Seeking God’s Intervention: Pharaoh’s plea to Moses and Aaron to “intreat the Lord” reveals his recognition that the God of the Israelites had control over the situation. Pharaoh understood that only through Moses and Aaron’s intervention with God could the plague be lifted. This acknowledgment indicates a realization of the superiority and authority of God over the gods of Egypt.
Conditional Promise: In his request, Pharaoh proposes a conditional promise. He offers to let the Israelites go to sacrifice to the Lord if God would remove the frogs from him and his people. However, it is important to note that Pharaoh’s promise was temporary and motivated by a desire to alleviate the current plague rather than a genuine desire to release the Israelites. This is evident from Pharaoh’s subsequent actions, as he repeatedly reneged on his promises.
Lessons for Today:
- Recognition of God’s Power: Pharaoh’s acknowledgment of the need for divine intervention reminds us of the importance of recognizing God’s power and authority. When faced with difficulties, we should seek God’s help and acknowledge His sovereignty.
- Conditional Commitments: Pharaoh’s conditional promise highlights the danger of making commitments to God based on convenience or self-interest. God desires our sincere and wholehearted commitment rather than temporary or conditional offerings.
- Faithful Intercession: Moses and Aaron served as intercessors between Pharaoh and God. They stood as mediators, communicating Pharaoh’s plea to God. This emphasizes the significance of intercessory prayer in seeking God’s intervention in challenging circumstances.
In conclusion, Exodus 8:8 showcases Pharaoh’s recognition of the need for divine intervention, prompting him to request Moses and Aaron to intercede with God. However, Pharaoh’s conditional promise reveals his temporary motives rather than a genuine commitment. This passage reminds us to acknowledge God’s power, avoid conditional commitments, and practice faithful intercession in our relationship with God.
