Exodus 9:16 But I have raised you up for this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.
This verse is an interesting one. When you see a verse like this we assume it is in reference to one of God’s chosen people. But today’s verse actually speaks of Pharaoh in Egypt during the time the Israelites were imprisoned.
A quick history lesson before we look at spiritual application… The Israelites had left their ancestral lands during a time of famine and were living in Egypt. They had been enslaved by the Egyptians and Moses had been called to deliver them from oppression. But the ruler of Egypt, Pharaoh, refused to let them leave.
Today’s verse shows us that God uses all things for His purpose, even rulers who do not abide by His will. In this case, He used Pharaoh for a greater purpose – to show His mighty power. In Romans 13:1 we are told that everyone is to be subject to the authorities because there is no authority except those God has established. And that is exactly what happened in Exodus. We see Pharaoh in a position of authority and power and God uses him for a purpose – to show His great power and to proclaim His Name across the earth.
God intentionally allowed Pharaoh to live and rule to serve His greater purpose. He sent plagues on Egypt to demonstrate His power and to show the consequences for not obeying His commands. The news of the power of God spread and all of the nations heard of what was taking place in Egypt.
No matter where you are in your life, no matter what you have done or how unworthy you feel you are, God can and will use you for His purpose. He uses all things to proclaim His mighty Name, including our failures and shortcomings. We have a purpose, and our purpose is to fulfill His greater purpose, to proclaim His Name and power throughout the world. Be willing and open to allowing Him to work in you and through you each day.
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