Exodus 10:19

And the LORD changed the wind to a very strong west wind that carried off the locusts and blew them into the Red Sea. Not a single locust remained anywhere in Egypt.

Study Bible

And the LORD
The phrase "And the LORD" signifies the direct involvement of God in the events of Exodus. The Hebrew word for LORD here is "Yahweh," the covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal presence and faithfulness to His people. This highlights the personal relationship God has with Israel, acting as their deliverer and protector. In the broader biblical narrative, Yahweh is the God who hears the cries of His people and responds with power and authority.

shifted the wind
The action of God shifting the wind demonstrates His sovereign control over nature. The Hebrew word for "wind" is "ruach," which can also mean spirit or breath, indicating the life-giving and sustaining power of God. This act of shifting the wind is a miraculous intervention, showcasing God's ability to manipulate the natural world to fulfill His purposes. It serves as a reminder of God's omnipotence and His ability to bring about change in seemingly impossible situations.

to a very strong west wind
The "very strong west wind" is significant in the context of the plagues. In the ancient Near East, winds were often seen as divine messengers or instruments. The west wind, coming from the Mediterranean Sea, would have been unexpected and powerful, symbolizing a complete reversal of the previous conditions. This change in wind direction is a physical manifestation of God's will, demonstrating His power to bring relief and restoration.

which carried the locusts away
The removal of the locusts by the wind is a direct answer to Moses' intercession and Pharaoh's plea. Locusts, in the ancient world, were a symbol of destruction and judgment. Their removal signifies the end of a divine judgment and the beginning of mercy. This act of carrying away the locusts illustrates God's grace and willingness to relent from sending calamity when there is repentance or intercession.

and drove them into the Red Sea
The Red Sea, or "Yam Suph" in Hebrew, is a significant geographical and theological landmark in the Exodus narrative. The driving of the locusts into the Red Sea not only removes the immediate threat but also foreshadows the future deliverance of Israel through the same body of water. This act serves as a precursor to the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea, where God will once again demonstrate His power over creation to save His people.

Not a single locust remained
The complete removal of the locusts underscores the thoroughness of God's deliverance. The phrase "not a single locust remained" emphasizes the totality of God's intervention. It reflects the biblical theme of God's ability to completely restore and renew, leaving no trace of past afflictions. This serves as an assurance of God's comprehensive care and the effectiveness of His redemptive acts.

in all the territory of Egypt
The phrase "in all the territory of Egypt" highlights the widespread impact of God's actions. Egypt, as a symbol of oppression and idolatry, experiences the power of Yahweh, the one true God. This demonstrates that God's authority extends over all nations and territories, not just Israel. It serves as a testament to God's universal sovereignty and His ability to execute judgment and mercy on a grand scale.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who demonstrates His power and sovereignty over creation and the false gods of Egypt.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened against releasing the Israelites, leading to the plagues as a demonstration of God's power.

3. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, who acts as God's messenger to Pharaoh, demanding the release of God's people.

4. The Locusts
The eighth plague sent by God upon Egypt, devastating the land and demonstrating God's control over nature.

5. The Red Sea
The body of water into which the locusts are driven, symbolizing God's deliverance and judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nature
God controls the elements, as seen in His command over the wind and the locusts. This reminds us of His ultimate authority over all creation.

Judgment and Deliverance
The removal of the locusts signifies both judgment on Egypt and deliverance for Israel. It highlights God's ability to both judge sin and provide salvation.

The Power of Repentance
Pharaoh's temporary repentance leads to the removal of the plague, illustrating the importance of turning to God, though true repentance requires a change of heart.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
Despite Pharaoh's resistance, God remains faithful to His promise to deliver Israel, encouraging us to trust in His promises in our lives.

The Importance of Obedience
The plagues serve as a warning of the consequences of disobedience to God, urging us to live in accordance with His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does God's control over the wind and locusts in Exodus 10:19 demonstrate His sovereignty in your life today?

2. In what ways can the removal of the locusts be seen as both an act of judgment and mercy? How does this apply to your understanding of God's character?

3. Compare the role of the Red Sea in Exodus 10:19 and Exodus 14. What does this teach us about God's methods of deliverance?

4. How can the temporary repentance of Pharaoh serve as a warning for us in our spiritual walk? What does true repentance look like according to Scripture?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in your life. How does this encourage you to trust Him with current challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The parting of the Red Sea, where God again uses the wind to deliver His people and judge the Egyptians, showing His continued power and faithfulness.

Joel 2
The prophecy of locusts as a symbol of judgment, which also calls for repentance and highlights God's mercy and restoration.

Psalm 78
A recounting of the plagues, including the locusts, as a reminder of God's mighty acts and the importance of obedience and faithfulness.