Exodus 9:28

EXODUS 9:28

In Exodus 9:28, Pharaoh is pressed by the seventh plague—the hailstorm—that devastates fields and livestock. Pharaoh’s plea, “Intreat the LORD (for it is enough) that there be no more mighty thunderings and hail,” is striking for its formal, almost liturgical tone. It signals a turning point: power is being exercised through intercession. Moses, acting as mediator, has just forecasted that if the storm ends, Pharaoh will be compelled to release the Israelites. The phrase “for it is enough” concedes that the divine judgment has accomplished its intended purpose, yet Pharaoh’s heart remains hardened. Historically, Egypt depended on predictable agricultural cycles; a hailstorm with thunder would be terrifying and disruptive, exposing the gods of Egypt as impotent against the God of Israel. Culturally, Pharaoh’s court would have valued control and order; the request to stop the storm is a call to stop resisting and submit to divine sovereignty. The scene emphasizes that intercession can alter human experience—mercy braided with justice.

This verse foregrounds the relationship between God’s justice and mercy. God’s hardness of heart toward Pharaoh (and Pharaoh’s persistent resistance) demonstrates the seriousness of sin and the consequences of rebellion. Yet intercession—Moses’ act of begging God to end the plague—reveals God’s readiness to relent when repentance appears, even if only partially. The hail becomes a visible sign that the earth belongs to the LORD and not to Pharaoh. Theologically, the passage frames God as sovereign over nature and history, using signs to reveal himself and to call people to acknowledge his lordship. It also underscores the role of prophets as intercessors who stand between human obstinacy and divine judgment, pleading for mercy while proclaiming truth.

We can learn to pray with honesty about the consequences of disobedience, while recognizing God’s mercy to hold back further judgment. When life feels like a storm—financial loss, relational strain, or moral compromise—humble intercession can shift the moment, even if not immediately changing every outcome. Intercession isn’t magical control; it’s alignment with God’s purposes and a plea for mercy to soften hard hearts—our own included. Practically, consider times you need to ask God to end a difficult season, while also reflecting on areas where you may be resisting his will. Like Moses, we can model prayer that names reality (“the earth is the LORD’s”) and invites change while leaving room for repentance. In communities, collective intercession can mobilize energy toward reconciliation, justice, and worship, pivoting from fear-filled endurance to faithful obedience.

Cross-References: Genesis 18:22-33; Psalm 29; 1 Kings 18:36-39; Daniel 9:3-19; James 5:16-18