The Pilgrim Path---Exodus 9: 16 – 18

“But for this purpose I have raised you up, to show you my power, so that my name may be proclaimed in all the earth. You are still exalting yourself against my people and will not let them go. Behold, about this time tomorrow I will cause very heavy hail to fall, such as never has been in Egypt from the day it was founded until now.”

“…MY NAME MAY BE PROCLAIMED”

Here we find one of the best-selling pop tunes of world history: “You are still exalting yourself” (Pharaoh & the Magicians). The object raged against is the LORD God Almighty. The LORD is never counted a loser in any contest with mortals. Pharaoh looked more dignified than most. He had wealth, an army, and many court officials to accomplish his bidding. Alas, Pharaoh is a vapor that appears but for a time---and into eternity he goes! Because he has a heart of stone, he becomes a human power point to depict to the World---what happens when you try to “toy” with GOD and reject HIS truth. Pharoah always acted as though he “were” GOD. He never really thought he was accountable to the LORD…

When the Lord Jesus Christ walked the earth, He was accessible to the most troubled and sin-shattered souls. Any of them who would come to him in humility---HE received. Any of them who ran from their sin to Him---He welcomed. But remember: any who acted as though He was of no use---HE typically left them alone (Saul of Tarsus is a remarkable & shocking exception).

HIS Name is the Name that is to be exalted. Whenever we want our name in the lights---we can about count on some darkness ahead. It is “all” about HIM. Jesus is the KING…

“Not to us, O LORD, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and faithfulness!” Psalm 115: 1

“…but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.” Philippians 2: 7

From Thomas Manton: The great sin of the old world was this: ‘let us make a name for ourselves’ (Gen. 11: 4). How badly they plan, who make plans without God! Those who are so busy about their own name, how soon will God blast them!

From Tim Keller: Anything more important to you than the real God is an alternate God.

From Samuel Rutherford: Look for crosses, and while it is fair weather mend the sails of the ship.

Grace and Peace in Jesus, the Only Redeemer of broken and wretched souls, Pastor Jason