26th March 2026

God Can Harden Hearts

"But the Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh. "

Exodus 9:12

Today's Bible Reading:  Exodus 9:8-12.

In yesterday's devotion, we looked at how Pharaoh hardened his heart towards God, and the the consequences of such an action. But God, can also harden hearts, and today, I want us to look at why God hardened the heart of Pharaoh, so that he could not repent.

Exodus 9:12 the Bible says: "But the Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh." This verse may raise questions and seem puzzling at first glance. Why would God harden someone's heart? What does it mean for Pharaoh and for us today?

First, we must understand that Pharaoh was not an innocent victim of God's manipulation. Throughout the narrative, we see Pharaoh repeatedly rejecting God's commands to let the Israelites go. His heart was already resistant to God's will, and God allowed Pharaoh to continue in his stubbornness (Ex 8:32).

The hardening of Pharaoh's heart serves a twofold purpose. On one hand, it reveals the consequence of persistent rebellion against God. Pharaoh's hardened heart was a result of his own choices and actions. It highlights the importance of responding to God's promptings and not resisting His will.

On the other hand, God's hardening of Pharaoh's heart serves a greater purpose in His divine plan. The plagues and the hardened heart of Pharaoh were part of God's demonstration of His power and sovereignty. Through these events, God showed His authority over all things, including the rulers of the earth.

As we reflect on this verse, we can draw valuable lessons for our own lives. We are reminded of the significance of responding to God's promptings and avoiding a hardened heart. We should not allow pride, rebellion, or unbelief to hinder our relationship with God.

Additionally, we are encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty even when we encounter difficult or puzzling circumstances. God's ways are higher than ours, and He works all things together for His purposes and glory (Romans 8:28). We can find comfort and peace in knowing that God is in control, even in situations that may seem confusing or challenging.  

Prayer: Gracious God , soften my heart, guide me in Your will, and help me trust in Your sovereignty. In Christ Jesus I ask and pray. Amen.

25th March 2026

A Hardened Heart

"Pharaoh hardened his heart . . ."

Exodus 8:32

Today's Bible Reading: Exodus: 8:25-32.

In Exodus 8:32, we read that Pharaoh hardened his heart. This verse is part of the account of the plagues in Egypt, specifically after the fourth plague of flies. Despite experiencing the devastating consequences of the plagues, Pharaoh chose to resist and reject God's command to let the Israelites go. 

This verse raises an important question: Why did Pharaoh harden his heart? Throughout the narrative, we see a pattern of Pharaoh's stubbornness and pride. Pharaoh saw himself as a god and refused to acknowledge the sovereignty and authority of the true God, Yahweh. His heart was hardened because he was unwilling to humble himself and submit to God's will. 

Pharaoh's response serves as a cautionary reminder for us today. Sometimes, we too can harden our hearts in the face of God's Word and His calling in our lives. We may be resistant to change, unwilling to surrender our own desires, or unwilling to acknowledge our need for God's guidance. 

However, the consequences of a hardened heart are severe. Pharaoh's refusal to obey God resulted in further plagues and ultimately led to the death of the firstborn in Egypt, including his own son. Similarly, when we harden our hearts, we distance ourselves from God's grace, guidance, and blessings. 

The key lesson from this verse is the importance of cultivating a soft and receptive heart towards God. It requires humility, surrender, and a willingness to align our will with His. By doing so, we open ourselves to experience the abundant life and blessings that come from a relationship with God.  

Prayer: Dear Lord, soften my heart and remove any pride or resistance that hinders my relationship with You. In Jesus name. Amen.

24th March 2026

The Law Condemns Us

"Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh

will be justified in His sight,

for by the law is the knowledge of sin."

Romans 3:20

Today's Bible Reading: Galatians 3:19-25.

When God gave the law, He knew that man was incapable of keeping it. Many people are confused as to why God gave the law, if He knew man could not possibly keep it. The Bible teaches that the law was given as a mirror; I look into the law and see my spiritual condition. I see how far short I come, and this drives me to the cross of Christ for forgiveness. The Bible teaches that this is why Christ came—to redeem them that were under the law. Mankind cannot not keep the law; we are condemned by the law. But Christ, by His work on Calvary's cross, justifies them that put their trust in Him.

Prayer: How I need Your guidelines, Lord. Teach me to be always mindful of Your leading. In Jesus name. Amen.