Growing up, I always thought the plagues seemed random. Three different bug plagues is redundant, right? But as I would later learn, the LORD was introducing Himself, and specifically defying Egyptian deities.

The God of Israel is not only more powerful than Egyptian gods, He is more powerful than all of them combined. 

It should be noted:

“Those officials of Pharaoh who feared the word of the Lord hurried to bring their slaves and their livestock inside. But those who ignored the word of the Lord left their slaves and livestock in the field.” (9:20-21)

God spared the Egyptians who feared Him. He makes a distinction with those who fear and obey Him, but what is more astonishing is the grace covering His distinction of Israel. They were spared, even though they were still confused about meeting their God. 

Grace is unmerited favor. Israel was receiving this. In every major story, depicting Israel’s victory over foreign nations, there is a sub-plot underlining God’s exceptions. He loves everyone. All nations. He graciously gives favor to His chosen ones as an invitation. 

We have been grafted in to Israel. We receive their blessing. We are called His chosen people, although many of us are not Jewish. We are His bride, the church. We have received grace.

This should always humble us, not entitle us. We have been given the same mandate to use our blessing from God to draw in others. We don’t deserve to be here. We don’t deserve to live in Goshen. Historically, we wouldn’t!

The invitation stands: “Know the LORD! He is greater than all idols and deities combined!” Who can you extend it to today?

-Bethany