Exodus 9:18

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 9:18 (KJV)

Context

This verse stands within the account of the ten plagues that God sent upon Egypt through Moses. By this time, Moses had repeatedly confronted Pharaoh, demanding that he let the Israelites go. Pharaoh continued to refuse, and his heart grew harder with each warning. Here, God speaks directly through Moses, announcing the seventh plague: a severe hailstorm that would strike the next day.

Meaning

The words “to morrow about this time” show that God works according to a precise plan. He does not act randomly; He announces what will happen and when. The hail is called “very grievous,” meaning it would be thick, heavy, and long-lasting. The phrase “since the foundation thereof” refers to the founding of Egypt as a nation, not to the creation of the world. This storm would be unlike anything Egypt had ever known, and God says so clearly before it comes. The timing is exact, and the warning is public. God gives Pharaoh and the Egyptians a full day to respond.

Biblical connections

The warning in this verse is followed by a command in Exodus 9:19 for the Egyptians to bring their livestock and servants into shelter. This shows that the warning was also an act of mercy, giving people time to prepare and escape destruction. Later, Exodus 9:24 confirms that the hail was the worst storm in Egypt’s history. The plague also challenged the Egyptian gods, especially Nut, the goddess of the sky, who was believed to control the weather. By sending hail, God proved that He alone rules the heavens.

Application

God still speaks clearly before He acts. He warns people so they can turn from sin and obey Him. When we hear a warning from Scripture or from the Holy Spirit, we should respond quickly, just as the Egyptians who feared God brought their servants and animals to shelter. Ignoring a warning does not remove the danger; it only increases the loss. Heeding God’s warning is an act of faith and wisdom.

Reflection

This verse reveals both the severity of God’s judgment and the depth of His patience. Pharaoh had many chances to repent, yet he kept resisting. The same God who sent the hail also gave the warning. He is not quick to destroy, but He will not be mocked forever. Let this verse move us to examine our own hearts. Are we listening to God’s warnings, or are we hardening our hearts like Pharaoh? The choice we make today shapes the outcome we face tomorrow.