There is a quiet, often uncomfortable space where our will meets God’s. It isn’t always dramatic or obvious. More often, it shows up in small moments—when plans get interrupted, when obedience feels inconvenient, or when letting go feels risky. In that narrow space, we make a choice: do we tighten our grip and hold on harder, or do we soften our hearts and yield in recognition and reverence to Him who is all powerful, loving and sovereign over all?
We see this clearly in the story of Pharaoh, from the book of Exodus. Moses and Aaron come to him with a simple message from God: “Let My people go, that they may hold a feast to Me in the wilderness.” But Pharaoh’s response is sharp and revealing. He says, “Who is the LORD, that I should obey His voice to let Israel go? I do not know the LORD, nor will I let Israel go.” (Exodus 5:1–2, NKJV).
Though this confrontation undoubtedly required tremendous courage from Moses and Aaron, they still chose to obey God. Pharaoh, on the other hand, had a heart set against surrender. He refused to acknowledge God’s authority. Instead, he dug in his heels and clung fiercely to control. The result? Increasing tension—harsher demands, rising conflict, and growing unrest.
If we’re honest, this posture feels all too familiar—there is a Pharaoh in all of us. When things don’t go our way, answers seem delayed, or obedience costs more than expected, our instinct is to tighten our grip. We push harder, overthink, and resist letting go. Yet when we pause, acknowledge our limits, and entrust the outcome to God’s care, we find that even if the situation does not change immediately, the atmosphere inside us does.
Pause and Ponder
- What does Pharaoh’s response reveal about how the heart responds when confronted with God’s authority?
- Think about specific areas where you are resisting God’s authority. What emotions come up when you consider letting go?
- Take a moment to write: how might trusting God’s plan more fully in this area transform your inner atmosphere—and, in turn, the quality of your relationships?
Ironically, Pharaoh imagined that resisting God would give him greater control and deeper peace. But resistance did not calm his world; it only intensified the pressure within his heart and around his life. His story reminds us that peace never flows from stubbornness, but from humble surrender to God.
Lord, You alone are sovereign. Help me see where I resist Your authority and hold too tightly to control. Teach me to yield quickly, trust deeply, and find my rest in You. Amen.
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