“And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch forth thine hand toward heaven, that there may be hail in all the land of Egypt, upon man, and upon beast, and upon every herb of the field, throughout the land of Egypt.”
Context: The book of Exodus is the second book of the Bible and recounts the story of the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt. In this particular verse, God is speaking to Moses, instructing him to stretch out his hand and bring about a severe hailstorm upon the land of Egypt.
Divine Authority: The verse begins with “And the LORD said unto Moses.” This phrase emphasizes the authority and sovereignty of God. It demonstrates that God has complete control over the elements and natural disasters.
Divine Judgment: God is executing His judgment upon the land of Egypt through the means of a devastating hailstorm. This was one of the ten plagues that God brought upon Egypt to demonstrate His power and to compel Pharaoh to release the Israelites.
Comprehensive Impact: The hailstorm was not limited to affecting humans but extended to animals and vegetation as well. It underscores the severity of the judgment and the extent of its consequences.
Symbolism: Throughout the Bible, hail is often associated with divine judgment. In this context, it serves as a sign of God’s power and wrath against Pharaoh and the Egyptians for their oppression of the Israelites. It also symbolizes the destruction that results from resisting God’s will.
God’s Control Over Nature: This verse reveals God’s authority over nature. By instructing Moses to stretch out his hand, God demonstrates that He can use human agents to carry out His purposes and bring about supernatural events. It showcases God’s sovereignty and His ability to use various means to accomplish His plans.
Faith and Obedience: Moses’ obedience in stretching out his hand is a testament to his faith in God’s instructions. Despite the potentially destructive outcome, Moses trusted in God’s power and followed His command. This verse highlights the importance of faith and obedience in carrying out God’s will.
Overall, Exodus 9:22 showcases God’s judgment, His control over nature, and the significance of faith and obedience. It reminds us of God’s sovereignty and the consequences of opposing His purposes.
