Dig a Little Deeper: God Over Khepri

In our study on the ten plagues, we have witnessed God's mighty acts to free his people from bondage. Each plague was not merely a display of power but a direct confrontation against the false gods worshipped by the Egyptians. This week examines the fourth strike God sent against Egypt: Flies.

Understanding the Symbolism:

The plague of flies was not simply an annoyance to the Egyptians. The Egyptians revered flies, and they even had a deity associated with them named Khepri. Khepri represented resurrection and personal transformation, drawing upon the scarab beetle's emergence from the ground. However, God's plague of flies shattered the illusion of Khepri's power. It demonstrated God's superiority over the Egyptian gods and challenged the Egyptians' belief in their gods' ability to protect them. We can learn from this that our true rebirth and transformation come through Jesus Christ alone, not through false idols or worldly concepts.

Seeking God's Protection:

One remarkable aspect of the plague of flies is that God protected his people, the Hebrews, from its effects. While the Egyptians suffered discomfort and disruption, God shielded the Hebrews. This serves as a powerful reminder that those who follow God's ways find safety and refuge in his loving care.

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

Romans 12:2

By immersing ourselves in the Scriptures and submitting to its teachings, we are protected from the harmful influences of the world.

The Assurance of God's Faithfulness:

In times of uncertainty and turmoil, it is vital to remember that God is faithful. Just as he protected the Hebrews from the plague of flies, he continues to guard his people today. Through the sacrificial work of Jesus on the cross, we find eternal security and protection. It is by his blood that we are born again and transformed by the Holy Spirit. While persecution may come, we can trust in God's faithfulness and take refuge in his unfailing promises.

Avoiding the Fatal Mistake:

The story of Pharaoh's response to the plagues serves as a cautionary tale. Despite initially promising to release the Hebrew slaves, Pharaoh later turned back on his word, choosing to continue in his sin and oppression. This reminds us of the danger of false conversions and superficial commitments to Christ. True repentance and obedience are evidence of a genuine transformation by the power of the Holy Spirit. Let us be vigilant, guarding our hearts against falling away and be steadfast in our pursuit of holiness.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on the plague of flies and its implications, let us seek refuge in the unwavering power of God. Our rebirth and transformation come through Jesus Christ alone, not through worldly idols or philosophies. We can find safety in God's protection, guarding ourselves against the influences of the world. Remember, God is faithful to his promises, and we can trust in his unfailing love and care. Let us be cautious not to fall into the fatal mistake of false conversions but instead strive for genuine repentance and obedience, allowing God to transform us from within. May we always seek his guidance and find solace in his unchanging power.