Week 3 | Day 4
THE FIFTH PLAGUE: LIVESTOCK
Exodus 9: 1-7
In the fifth plague, God struck Egypt’s livestock with a devastating disease—animals that represented wealth, security, and survival. Yet in a clear act of covenant faithfulness, not a single animal belonging to Israel was harmed. Pharaoh even investigated and confirmed the distinction, but still refused to obey. The plague revealed a sobering truth: the greatest danger was not Egypt’s loss of livestock, but Pharaoh’s hardened heart. God had spoken clearly, acted decisively, and waited patiently—yet obedience was still delayed.
Application
1. God is Precise and Personal in His Dealings
This wasn’t random destruction. God acted with clarity and purpose, reminding us that He sees our lives in detail and speaks intentionally.
2. Awareness is not the Same as Surrender
Pharaoh recognized God’s hand but wouldn’t yield. We must ask ourselves where we
acknowledge God’s truth but resist His authority.
3. God May touch What We Trust Most to Draw Us Back to Him
Egypt’s security was shaken so their hearts might turn. Sometimes loss becomes an invitation to deeper dependence.
4. God Knows How to Protect His People
Goshen was spared. Even in judgment, God’s care for His own never wavered. He is faithful to
those who belong to Him.
5. Delayed Obedience Hardens the Heart
Pharaoh’s refusal wasn’t ignorance—it was postponement. God’s mercy invites immediate
obedience, not negotiation.
This wasn’t random destruction. God acted with clarity and purpose, reminding us that He sees our lives in detail and speaks intentionally.
2. Awareness is not the Same as Surrender
Pharaoh recognized God’s hand but wouldn’t yield. We must ask ourselves where we
acknowledge God’s truth but resist His authority.
3. God May touch What We Trust Most to Draw Us Back to Him
Egypt’s security was shaken so their hearts might turn. Sometimes loss becomes an invitation to deeper dependence.
4. God Knows How to Protect His People
Goshen was spared. Even in judgment, God’s care for His own never wavered. He is faithful to
those who belong to Him.
5. Delayed Obedience Hardens the Heart
Pharaoh’s refusal wasn’t ignorance—it was postponement. God’s mercy invites immediate
obedience, not negotiation.
Closing Prayer
Lord, search my heart and show me where I may be resisting You. Help me not to merely recognize Your work, but to respond with obedience. If I am trusting in anything more than You, gently but firmly redirect my heart. Teach me to listen when You speak, to move when You lead, and to trust You even when You touch what feels secure. Thank You for Your mercy, Your faithfulness, and Your patient love. Amen.