Old Testament
Exodus 9:20
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Those among Pharaoh's servants who feared the word of the LORD brought their servants and livestock into the houses.
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He that feared the word of the LORD among the servants of Pharaoh made his servants and his cattle flee into the houses:
What Exodus 9:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, we see a clear choice being made by some of Pharaoh's servants. They recognized the power and authority of the LORD's word. Instead of ignoring the warning, they took action to protect their families and livestock. This shows a deep respect for the consequences of ignoring divine messages. By bringing their servants and animals indoors, they demonstrated wisdom and foresight. Their actions stand in stark contrast to Pharaoh's stubbornness. This story highlights the importance of listening to wise counsel and acting on it. It reminds us that fear of the LORD can lead to safety and protection. Ultimately, it’s about making choices that reflect our values and beliefs, especially in times of crisis. The servants who acted wisely were spared from the impending disaster, illustrating the benefits of heeding warnings and taking proactive steps to ensure safety and well-being. Their faith in the word of the LORD led to tangible actions that safeguarded their lives.
How to apply Exodus 9:20 to your life
In our lives, we often face choices that require us to act wisely. When we hear warnings or advice, it’s crucial to consider their implications seriously. Taking proactive steps can protect us from potential harm. Reflect on how you respond to guidance in your life. Are you listening and acting wisely when it matters most? Stay alert and responsive to wise counsel around you, especially in challenging times. This can lead to safety and peace.
Curated for this public verse page. Exodus Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: The Plague of Hail (Exodus 9:13–35)
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Moses
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Exodus 9:20
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At a Glance — the Book of Exodus
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Exodus 9:20 teach about fear of the LORD?
Exodus 9:20 illustrates that fearing the word of the LORD leads to wise actions. The servants who recognized the authority of God's warning took steps to protect themselves and their livestock. This teaches us that a healthy fear of the LORD can guide us to make prudent choices, especially in critical situations.
How can we apply the lessons from Exodus 9:20 in our daily lives?
We can apply the lessons from Exodus 9:20 by being attentive to warnings and advice in our lives. Just as Pharaoh's servants acted wisely by heeding God's message, we should reflect on the guidance we receive and take proactive steps to ensure our safety and well-being, especially during challenging times.
What is the significance of the actions taken by Pharaoh's servants in this verse?
The actions of Pharaoh's servants in Exodus 9:20 highlight the importance of recognizing the consequences of ignoring divine warnings. Their decision to bring their servants and livestock indoors demonstrates wisdom and foresight, contrasting sharply with Pharaoh's stubbornness. This signifies that acknowledging and acting on wise counsel can lead to protection and safety.
Why did some servants of Pharaoh choose to heed the warning in Exodus 9:20?
Some servants of Pharaoh chose to heed the warning in Exodus 9:20 because they recognized the power and authority of the LORD's word. Their fear of the consequences of ignoring this warning motivated them to take protective action, showcasing the importance of discernment and respect for divine guidance.
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