When Obeying God Makes Things Worse (At First)
🗓️ Week 3 – Monday (July 14)
When Obeying God Makes Things Worse (At First)
(Based on Exodus 5:3–23)
Moses had finally said yes to God. He had gathered the elders. Shared the signs. Spoke the promises.
And the people believed. They worshiped (Exodus 4:31).
It was happening — the God of Abraham was moving!
Then… they went to Pharaoh.
And it all fell apart.
🧱 From Hope to Hardship
Instead of releasing the Israelites, Pharaoh tightened the grip:
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No more straw for bricks
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The same quota of work
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Harsher treatment
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Public shaming: “You’re lazy!”
The people were crushed — not just by Pharaoh, but by disappointment.
So they turned on Moses and Aaron:
“Let Yahweh look upon you, and judge; because ye have made our scent to be abhorred in the eyes of Pharaoh…” — Exodus 5:21, KJBPNV
That’s a strong accusation.
And in their pain? It felt justified.
🧠 When Obedience Seems to Backfire
It’s a moment many believers can relate to:
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You follow God’s call… and your finances fall apart.
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You take a stand… and lose a relationship.
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You serve faithfully… and get misunderstood or mistreated.
Like Moses, you’re left wondering,
“Did I mess this up? Was I wrong to obey?”
But sometimes the path must pass through hardship before deliverance unfolds.
⚔️ Two Battles, One Calling
Moses didn’t just face Pharaoh.
He now faced his own people’s doubt and anger — something he would face again and again.
Leaders (and faithful members) often experience this:
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You take a hard but holy stand
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And people don’t thank you — they blame you
💬 So, How Should We Respond When Things Go Sideways?
Instead of lashing out, we can:
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Pray for the Spirit of peace before confrontation
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Practice Matthew 18 principles for correction
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Ask questions, not make accusations
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Remember: God’s plans often take time to unfold
💭 Reflection Questions:
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Have you ever obeyed God and felt like it made life harder?
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How can you respond when disappointment tempts you to blame?
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What would grace-filled confrontation look like in your church community?
🧠 Key Insight:
Just because things get harder doesn’t mean God isn’t working.
Sometimes, the battle means you're on the right side.
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